5 Tips Every First-Time Home Renovator Should Consider

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Thinking about renovating your home? Whether you’re adding the final touches to your dream kitchen or making significant changes to the entire house, you’re likely wondering where to start. If you’re excited to update your space but don’t know how, here are five tips to keep in mind.

Finished basement with white drop ceiling tiles, bar area, and living space with wood floors

Get a Plan in Place

Start by identifying which projects you want to accomplish. Are you designing a more functional kitchen with a streamlined layout and new appliances, including a stainless steel farmhouse kitchen sink? Or is the goal to refresh your living room by adding built-ins or unique architectural elements?

Woman writing at a home office desk with framed art on the wall and natural window light

Create a room-by-room list of the work to be done, including design choices and layout considerations. It can be helpful to separate immediate needs from wants to ensure essential updates are completed first.

Set a Budget

Your home renovation budget should include two parts. First, budget for materials, permits, and the potential for a professional remodeler or contractor. Second, set aside a 20% contingency “just in case” fund to cover unexpected expenses or issues that may arise. This ensures your expectations are more in line with the actual costs, while accounting for any surprises.

Determine the Project Scope

Person using a Bostitch Smart Point finish nailer on white door trim during home renovation

Once you have an idea of the projects you’d like to accomplish, determine which are DIY-able and which require professional expertise. For example, installing a shower sliding door in your renovated bathroom can be as simple as reading the kit instructions or following a “how-to” video. However, installing a bathtub typically requires some plumbing expertise, especially if you need to move the drain or water supply lines. DIYing is all about learning new skills as you go, but it’s important to be honest about your limitations.

Research Materials Early

The pre-planning stage of your home renovation project is just as important as the upgrades themselves. Researching fixtures, finishes, colors, and other details before your project is set in motion can help you make decisions early, order materials well in advance, and prevent any material delays.

Use Online Tools

The best home improvement stores offer digital tools or apps to help you design your space, plan a layout, and maintain an ongoing materials shopping list. Use these tools to your advantage to keep your project on track and well organized.

About Menards®

From weekend DIY projects to full-room renovations, Menards® makes it easy to find the tools, materials, and supplies you need for every home improvement project on your list. With a wide range of departments, you can shop in-store or browse online for everything from a walk in tub to patio garden table and chairs. Visit one of their over 300 locations across the Midwest or create an online account for easy access to the high-quality service Menards® is known for.

Find the supplies you need for your next home renovation project at Menards® https://www.menards.com/

Location: 5101 Menard Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703, USA

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