Whether you actively pursued a fixer-upper because you wanted to breathe new life into a stunning old home or it seemed like a great way to get on the housing ladder, there is an art to home renovation.
Of course, it isn’t as simple as HGTV makes it look, and you should always have a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand. Still, it’s an undertaking that shows you how effectively you and your partner work as a team, and the feeling at the end of the journey is like nothing else.
If the home has good bones, your biggest concern is the decorative side. You might be able to install new kitchen cabinetry and appliances, but when it comes to plumbing and electricity, you should enlist the services of a skilled professional.
You should check with your local laws and regulations to find out precisely what you are and aren’t allowed to handle yourself. You will also want to enquire about the permits you need for what work. You don’t want to complete a job and have to tear it down because it wasn’t approved.
Flooring, roofing, and windows
The flooring can make a dramatic difference to the look and feel of your home. While covering up old wooden floors has become a common tactic, you can sand and refinish yours instead.
Not only is it a cheaper option, but it also honours the home’s originality. Of course, if they are too damaged, you may have no choice but to lay new floors, but aim for flooring as similar to the original as you can find.
Old homes often have old roofs, so it’s one of the first things to take a look at. If there’s an attic, you will want to look around to ensure there aren’t any sneaky leaks. A home inspection should highlight any issues, but it’s best to take a proactive approach to such a costly component.
Windows aren’t just about letting light into your home. They also play an important role in keeping your home well-insulated. You want it to keep the cold out and heat in and vice versa in the warmer months. It’s an expensive move, but it is often a necessity with older homes.
It’s also key to managing moisture and avoiding damp problems and mould growth. Don’t forget the security aspect; a locksmith can help you secure your home with window locks. A locksmith can also help you with new door handles and locks that match the grandness of the home but are in line with your new designs.
Lights, paint, and action
Lighting plays a major role in setting the scene. You don’t have to go fully modern, but updating the lighting fixtures is a great decorative move, and choosing the right pieces is an effective way to brighten the space and create a bit of drama.
Remember, lighting is a story of layers. You want to work ceiling lights in, as well as floor and table lamps. How you tie that in depends on your theme and the overall aesthetic you opt for.
Paint is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to breathe new life into an old home. It dramatically transforms the backdrop of each room and gives you a completely different space to work with.
Think about the size of each room before selecting the perfect colours, and think of the overall theme and design style you are planning. You should opt for special additives to combat mould in wet areas, and be sure to go for a low VOC paint to be as eco-friendly with your renovation as possible.
Sight lines and focal points
Older homes are often more spacious, so it can be tempting to go big, leading to a cluttered look. Instead, look to take advantage of sight lines and create focal points.
A striking lighting fixture or furniture can transform a room’s dynamics and draw all of the attention (just like a dramatic person). You can use art, mirrors, desks, or just about anything as the focal point and build around it.
That might mean letting go of all that clutter – it might be hard, but be ruthless. And with the clutter gone, you can incorporate a bit of greenery to bring a breath of fresh air into the space.
Home improvement is always a time-consuming effort, and it can be a costly one if you don’t make smart decisions. Upcycle furniture where you can. It’s easy enough to paint old pieces and change handles. The best way to proceed is to focus on one room at a time, especially if you prefer to DIY.
Post-renovation cleaning
After your renovation, it’s essential to tackle the post-renovation cleanup. Renovations often leave behind dust that can settle in hard-to-see areas, potentially containing harmful particles from paint or plaster.
Additionally, remnants like nails or wood shards can be hazardous and attract pests. Chemical residues from paints and solvents require proper ventilation and thorough cleaning to ensure a safe living environment.
While you can clean yourself, professional after-builders cleaning services can do a much more thorough job of it and ensure every nook is addressed. Conclude by updating soft furnishings, which can trap residual dust, to fully enjoy your refreshed space.
