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As a homeowner, you want your living space to look ageless and beautiful over the years. That’s a common mindset for Americans, and statistics validate the interest in home improvement projects.
On average, an American homeowner spent $10,341 on improvement projects, up by 25% from the previous year. The current home improvement market size is a whopping $538 billion.
While you may focus on ramping up your living space, remodeling the exteriors is equally crucial. Your outdoor space actually deserves more attention because it is exposed to the elements. Moreover, improving it even a bit can add to the value of your property. Not surprisingly, 32% of millennials want to remodel their home exteriors.
However, these projects are less popular than indoor renovation for kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. It means homeowners have fewer resources at hand when it comes to researching, planning, and budgeting for outdoor improvement projects. There are chances of making mistakes due to a lack of awareness.
We can help you avoid them with a checklist of potential issues. Let us highlight the blunders you must avoid while investing in an outdoor renovation project:
Blunder #1: Not Having a Realistic Budget
Setting a budget is the best place to start when working on home improvement, and outdoor renovations are no exception. You may believe that cleaning, landscaping, and exterior painting may cost only a little. But additional requirements such as deck repairs and siding upgrades may come up unexpectedly once you start checking the area.
A budget can be a savior as it enables you to avoid overspending and impulsive decisions. While budgeting, you must consider the local rates. If you live in Texas, you will be surprised by the differences in the cost of living in the state. Austin is 44.1% costlier than San Antonio, so hiring a siding contractor in Austin, TX, may be more expensive than in San Antonio. Material costs may also vary.
Americraft recommends getting an estimate from your contractor before signing them up for the project. You can opt for custom work to simplify the design and material requirements and fit the project into your budget. Keeping your spending on track keeps you on the safe side.
Blunder #2: Working Without a Plan
Besides missing out on renovation budgeting, working without a plan is another blunder to steer clear of. Having a well-thought plan prevents mistakes and ensures completion on time and within your budget. Further, you can be sure there are no disturbances to the land or duplication of work that may waste time and money.
You may feel tempted to start with the most-used areas, but the last thing you should do is rework them. The better option is to cover the parts that aren’t constructed yet. Also, have a plan in writing and involve your contractors in the planning phase because they may have valuable insights for better outcomes.
Blunder #3: Not Checking the Zoning Laws
Every state has some zoning laws and regulations homeowners need to comply with during construction. These laws apply to renovation projects, specifically when you add a structure to your property. You may also need to apply for some permits while adding a pergola or a swimming pool in your backyard.
Check your local building codes and permit requirements before starting the project. Obtain the essential permits because missing out on them can lead to hefty penalties or legal hassles. The good thing about compliance is that it ensures the safety of the new construction and gives you peace of mind.
Blunder #4: Overlooking Climatic Factors
When it comes to outdoor renovation, you cannot overlook climatic factors in your location. You may love siding material online, but it may not work in the humid weather in your area.
Consider the harsh summer in Austin, with temperatures soaring to the high 90s with high humidity. The heat can be unbearable for delicate siding materials. Most homeowners opt for vinyl siding in Austin, Texas, because of the durability and resistance of the material.
The short-term weather factors also determine the timely completion of outdoor renovation projects. Austin homeowners should avoid starting the project in May, October, and June because these are the wettest months. There is always a chance of a rainy spell disrupting work and pushing the project deadline ahead.
Blunder #5: Going Wrong with Plants
Landscaping is an integral part of an outdoor renovation project. The average American spends more than $8000 per annum on landscaping. Unfortunately, many people go wrong with the choice of plants and their gardening designs. You must avoid these blunders because they can be more painful than you imagine.
Stick with native plants because they are sturdy and require less water, making your outdoor space water efficient. Besides choosing plants that thrive in your location, ensure you grow them at the right places. Check factors such as sun and shade, soil type, and draining for the best results.
Conclusion
An outdoor renovation project is a financial commitment, but it delivers excellent ROI to homeowners. From enhancing aesthetics to creating functionality and increasing the value of your property, you can get several benefits from an improvement project. Making the most of the investment is about savvy choices and avoiding these costly blunders.