Remodeling a home can be challenging. Sometimes it is finding the right materials and other times deciding on a final vision. Either way, the process can be nerve-racking.
Before starting any remodeling job, it is best to start with tons of research. There are different strategies for accomplishing almost any goal. So, weeding through the messier ones can take some time.
Aside from knowing what the result should look like, it helps to keep in mind several variables. The reason is simple. Sometimes, the vision a person has in their head may be too difficult to source.
For example, not every drop in sink is created equal. And having to choose between a chain home improvement and specialty store can raise a lot more questions than answers. So, here are three things to consider before starting any small remodeling job.
Material
Sometimes the vision of what a kitchen should look like does not always match with reality. In other words, perhaps the Corian countertop in the original design was too hard to find.
When it comes to materials, it is helpful to think of where one might find them. Exotic stone slabs might not be source-able at a chain of retail home improvement stores. That means that the specialty shop might have an exclusive market on some materials.
Also, consider how hard it is to use the materials. Is a professional coming to work with the new granite countertop, or is it being done with YouTube playing on the side?
It may be best to consider every step from purchasing to installation and determine if any additional things are needed. For example, there are times when the tools needed to work with certain materials cost just as much as the product.
Rarity
How scarce an item is, around the world, or region can have a massive influence on the price. Sometimes, this can fluctuate according to supply and demand.
Not being able to find a product halfway through the remodeling job can result in one of two things. First, it will be a massive waste of time, or it will be a massive waste of money. Or, the most likely scenario, it will be both a waste of time and a waste of money.
Make sure to research well the scarcity of the material used for the project. Sometimes, this isn’t too much of a concern when dealing with large chain home improvement stores. They usually have a generous supply on hand. Or, they can get it from another location around the country.
That being said, some smaller specialty stores might not have access to resources across the country. As a result, they are limited and therefore can cost more.
Longevity
When it comes to remodeling, there are typically only a few kinds. There is the kind designed to increase the home’s value. These kinds of remodels aren’t always concerned with the best and most up-to-date.
However, there is a class of remodeler who is merely looking to create their dream home. And, like before, there is always the person who wishes to do both. Either way, understanding the longevity of material before installing it is helpful.
Chain home improvement stores are good because they typically offer a variety of materials. On the other hand, specialty shops still exist because they offer exclusives on some rarer pieces.
If vintage and charm are the desired effect, then a specialty shop may be the best place to shop. While a similar look can be achieved at a chain home improvement store, they are cheap imitations.
There is no simple way to choose whether a chain home improvement store or a specialty shop is best. Sometimes the cheap product saves money in the short term but might need to be replaced sooner.
Sometimes, the material can appreciate or depreciate over time. The only factors that should matter are vision and budget.
Purchase materials based upon the desired goal and within budget. Remember, imitations of rarer and exotic materials are available and in good supply. Also, sometimes a remodeling job is actually several smaller jobs over a few years.
