From assessing the situation to establishing a schedule, including the choice of materials and craftsmen, Travaux.com reviews 10 smart tips for successfully completing your renovation work.
Embarking on a renovation project can seem complex at first. However, by following a few simple rules, the risk of disappointment remains limited. Here are 10 simple tips that will help you avoid many obstacles.
Renovation work: establishing a site survey
To determine which renovations to prioritize, start by assessing the work that needs to be done. In a house, certain elements can gradually deteriorate or no longer meet current standards. If nothing is done, your property will gradually lose value. This is the case, for example, if the wood in your roof frame is infested with termites or if you have outdated electrical wiring.
To help you accurately assess the work to be carried out in the near future and prioritize it, consult specialized building inspectors. Regarding insulation work, a design office will also provide recommendations on the necessary renovations.
Renovation work: establishing a schedule
To ensure the success of your renovation project , it’s essential to establish and adhere to a precise schedule developed with professionals. Renovation work must follow a specific order, both for practical reasons and to avoid oversizing equipment (particularly heating and air conditioning). For example, windows and insulation should be replaced before a boiler. The boiler will then be sized to reflect reduced energy needs, rather than those prior to the renovation .
Note that even when the renovation only involves one room, following a chronological order is essential. For example, if you’re having your kitchen remodeled, destructive work such as plumbing and electrical work should be done before tiling and installing the cabinets.
Renovation work: planning your budget
The budget is drawn up without omitting any item and with a small buffer. Nothing is more discouraging than living in a perpetual construction site due to a lack of funds to finish it. But renovation work brings real well-being and added value should the house or apartment be sold. The financial effort is therefore often rewarded.
Note: During energy renovation work, numerous forms of assistance are available: tax credits, zero-interest loans, subsidies from the French National Housing Agency (Anah) and energy suppliers, possible exemption from property tax, etc. These forms of assistance can offset all or part of the cost of the renovation work.
Renovation work: administrative authorizations
Successfully completing your renovation project also means complying with current regulations regarding the work being carried out. For example, for an extension exceeding 150 m², a building permit application submitted by an architect is required. For certain major renovation projects, and depending on the local council, a prior declaration may also be necessary. Your local planning department can provide you with further information on this matter.
Renovation work: consider the family’s needs
To renovate sustainably, you need to consider the family’s current and future needs. For example, having only one bedroom for your children will likely become problematic or unsuitable when they reach adolescence. Installing a walk-in shower is a wise choice if you notice the first signs of reduced mobility. For a bathroom or kitchen, functionality is paramount. Anticipate your needs for a comfortable home.
Renovation work: balancing your decorative desires
A successful renovation is one that reflects the occupants’ tastes. Modern, warm, minimalist, traditional, industrial—all styles are, of course, possible. However, everything depends on your long-term goal. If you plan to sell in the short or medium term, overly personal choices might deter potential buyers. Keep this in mind when choosing your colors and materials!
Renovation work: choosing quality
Choosing the low-cost option isn’t always the best way to ensure successful renovations . Opting for solid, high-quality materials, even if it means spreading the work out over time, allows you to save money in the long run. Similarly, a home renovation is an opportunity to consider energy savings. Choosing more energy-efficient equipment that uses proven, reliable technologies (such as condensing boilers and double glazing) is a win-win for both your wallet and the environment.
Renovation work: choosing the right professionals
A key factor in the success of your renovation project is finding a qualified tradesperson to entrust with the work. Word of mouth and online research remain good ways to choose a construction company. Even better: look for tradespeople with qualifications such as QUALIBAT, RGE, or Eco-artisans. In any case, be vigilant regarding legal obligations. To work in your home, these professionals must have ten-year structural warranty insurance and public liability insurance.