If you plan to remodel your home, you likely have many changes in mind. You may want a larger bathtub or an island in your kitchen. You can finally address the terrible, mismatched paint job in one of the bedrooms as well. However, it can be challenging to determine which renovations to tackle first. Should you get the bathroom out of the way or start with paint jobs? If you’re uncertain where to start, consider the most logistical approaches first.
Start With the Urgent Repairs
Depending on what is happening in your home, some repairs may be more obviously urgent than others. Repair any issues that are causing leaks, high utility bills, discomfort, or excessive damage to your home. You’ll want to ensure that your roofing, electrical, and plumbing systems are in good working order before investing in layout or aesthetic changes. Broken windows, uneven doors, inadequate ventilation, exposed wiring, and leaky pipes are examples of some urgent repairs. Have your home inspected by a professional to ensure certainty.
Kitchen Space
Kitchens are high-use, high-traffic parts of the home. You’ll need an efficient layout to reduce frustration while eating, cooking, and preparing meals. They also make excellent entertainment spaces, so you may want to consider upgrading this room above all else. Energy-efficient appliances, additional counter space, stylish splatter-guard backsplashes, islands, and pantries are all popular upgrades commonly found in modern kitchens. Kitchen renovations are also the most disruptive to your daily life, so be sure to plan them accordingly. You may want to upgrade and replace a little at a time.
Bathrooms
Like the kitchen, bathrooms are high-traffic rooms that often require upgrades. Modern homes frequently feature larger bathtubs, sometimes separated from the shower, for a more relaxing bathing experience. Many older bathrooms lack the counter space required for modern skincare or grooming routines. Swap out small counters or pedestal sinks for larger options with luxury countertop materials. You can also consider adding custom mood lighting or layered lighting for a spa-like experience. Since bathrooms are used frequently, you will need to strategically plan upgrades to avoid the rooms being out of commission for extended periods. If you only have one bathroom, you’ll need to tackle any changes to the toilet first, so that it may be used while the rest of the room is in disrepair. You can consult with a professional contractor to give you the best plan of action for a one-bathroom home. You may even want to add another bathroom; many families prefer more than one, but older homes have limited options.
Energy Efficiency
You may be eager to implement aesthetic and layout changes, but you shouldn’t neglect energy efficiency. A home without good insulation, properly installed doors, or unsealed windows can cause your energy bills to skyrocket, especially during the summer and winter months, when temperatures are at their most extreme. You’ll also likely experience inconsistent temperature patches throughout the home, leading to an uncomfortable and frustrating living space.
You can add high-quality insulation, such as fiber cement board, rock wool, or cellulose, to your ceilings, floors, and walls to maintain stable temperatures. High-quality, energy-efficient windows and doors that are properly installed and sealed will also prevent drafts from the weather. Andersen doors and windows are a popular choice for remodelers seeking stylish and weather-resistant options. Your energy bills will also decrease, allowing you to live an eco-friendly lifestyle without sacrificing comfort. You’ll also save money for further renovations.
Flooring
Your home should be comfortable to walk through, and since your home’s floors take damage every day, you should upgrade them fairly quickly. Old carpet or cracked tile can not only be unsightly, but it can also be unpleasant to walk on. Changing your home’s floors can significantly disrupt daily traffic, so getting these changes out of the way, room by room, is a smart choice before you opt for aesthetic upgrades. If you prefer spaces without carpet, especially if you have pets, you’ll want to prioritize these changes to avoid significant messes and odors.
Lighting
Flickering lights, burnt-out bulbs, and unevenly lit rooms can be a very frustrating experience. Lights that are too intense or harsh can cause headaches and eye strain, which can limit productivity if you work from home. Your home should feature a variety of lighting options for multiple purposes. Brighter lighting works well for kitchens and workspaces, but alternative layers, such as table lamps or oven lights, should also be available to provide direct task lighting whenever needed. Some homes utilize recessed lighting, which can be frustrating for home buyers who prefer fixtures within reach. While these upgrades are minor, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle if you address them promptly.
Storage
The average household requires more storage than ever, and smaller closets in older homes are no longer sufficient to meet modern needs. Without proper storage, you’ll increase clutter and messes in your home, and you’re more likely to be disorganized while trying to figure out where to put belongings that don’t have a designated storage space. Focus on expanding and adding closets, pantries, and built-in storage solutions before you start changing the aesthetics of the place. With more room for belongings, you’ll have a better visual of the cosmetic changes you’d like to make.
Conclusion
Cosmetic changes are typically the final touches that homeowners make. Improving the function, layout, and comfort of the home will come first, as many aesthetic changes are quick, simple, and more easily determined when everything else is in order. Select paint colors, door hardware, window treatments, and other finishing touches once everything is in working order. The cosmetic changes are less urgent, and you can upgrade them more slowly if you’re on a tighter budget. When you plan your remodel wisely, you’ll reduce a lot of frustration and enjoy a more comfortable home much sooner.