Congratulations—you’ve made the decision to begin a home renovation project! It’s exciting, but before you do anything, you need a plan to ensure things run smoothly. So, you’ve established a budget for the reno work, set timelines, and obtained the necessary permits, but you also need an effective sequence of events. 

It’s crucial you do things in the right order to ensure your reno project goes without a hitch. Our experts’ number 1 piece of advice? Plan the renovation process in the right order. Check out the following top tips for a reno that stays on track and provides you and your family with years of comfort. 

Top 10 Steps to a Happy Home Reno

1. Address structural issues.

Credit: D'Angelo & Sons

It starts with a solid foundation and a roof that is in good standing. Blisters, cracks, loose shingles, broken gutters, improper vents, and blocked drains all need to be addressed. According to roofing company D’Angelo and Sons, these problems won’t go away on their own; they can cause frustration and cost you time and money down the road. Now’s the time to address potential issues and make any necessary repairs. 

2. Define the space.

This is the part you see on all the home reno shows: it’s time to start knocking down walls and adding extensions or making conversions to create the desired layout and space that’s right for your needs. Maybe you want a bigger kitchen, an open floor plan, or a powder room on the main floor. Once you do this, you can move on to the next step.  

3. Install or upgrade your services.

Credit: Air Makers

Installing or upgrading plumbing systems, upgrading the wiring, and rewiring the house is necessary. This is also the time to install or update heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This is not the place to skimp. Maintaining good indoor air quality with adequate ventilation, filtration, and thermal comfort should be top of mind for your health and safety, according to Air Makers, HVAC contractor in the GTA. 

4. Work on the walls, floors, and ceilings.

At this stage of the game, you need to install or repair drywall as needed. Choose and install flooring from the many options available on the market. Let your imagination run wild. Cork walls? Yes, it’s possible. Also check whether the ceiling needs any updates, repairs, or decorative trim work.  

5. Install fixtures.

Credit: Easy Renovations

The next step is getting your kitchen and bathroom fixtures, like a bathtub or sinks, and fittings installed. This is the point in the project when built-in furniture and cabinetry are installed. These are areas in your home where you spend a lot of time, so make sure you’re happy with your choices. To bring your vision to life—whether it’s a simple update or a complete kitchen or bath reno—look for comprehensive design services, proper planning, and clear pricing so you don’t end up with any surprises, advises Easy Renovations, a bathroom and kitchen renovation company. 

6. Decorating: the fun part!  

Now it’s time to choose paint colours, wallpaper, or any other finishes for your walls. Get ready to add final touches to your interior design and decorate your home in your own style. Don’t be bound by tradition. This is your home, you want it to be a comfortable, welcoming space for your family and friends.  

7. Landscaping and exterior work.

Now that the interior is done, it’s time to head outdoors. Start by assessing what exterior work needs to be done, including repairs to your building envelope, such as siding or brick work. Then look at garden landscaping for your yard, including your lawn and flowerbeds.  

8. Do a final cleaning. 

Leave this to the professionals, as they will do a good job of deep cleaning the renovated space. Download a cleaning checklist, so you can make sure your space will be spotless, and free of dust and allergens, too.  

9. Wrap it up with an inspection.

  

 

Do a walk-through of the home to address any remaining tasks and ensure that all aspects of the reno meet your expectations. If you were issued a permit, you will need to schedule a final inspection of the home.  

10. Crack open the bubbly!  

It’s all done and now you can relax in your newly renovated home. Following the steps in the right order means you have saved yourself time and money. Enjoy!  

A renovation does not just happen off the top of your head. Researching reno companies, planning, and addressing challenges as they come up will all help you maintain a smooth flow. Following steps in the right order and hiring the right professionals means a renovation can be a positive, exciting experience.  

Reno Smarts 

When researching and choosing a company to do your home renovations, look for one that stands behind its name, with comprehensive warranties on the workmanship, for example, which will deliver your project on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction.  

This article was published in collaboration with dNovo Group, online marketing agency in Toronto. https://dnovogroup.com/