When the time for a renovation project comes, you will need to get a contractor to help you out.

Instead of going the DIY-way (which is highly inadvisable unless you are an expert in this field), why not call in the experts and have your project handled professionally.

However, there are some things most contractors will never tell you before starting a renovation project. Unless, of course, you are working with a transparent contractor with vast experience and proven performance, who has nothing to hide.

Thankfully, you don’t have to be in for unpleasant surprises. We have put together a list of things that your contractor may not mention upfront, but are very important to keep in mind.

1. Remodeling often takes longer than expected

It is easy to undermine a renovation project, thinking that it’s going to take no more than a couple of days.

Having helped with hundreds of home renovations in Calgary, we know too well how often homeowners tend to think of such projects as nothing more than a simple, quick undertaking.

However, the reality of it is that the time and costs it may take to bring your imagined renovation to reality may far exceed your expectations.

The exact amount of time and costs that may go into your renovation project might vary from what you expect. This is why it is important to work closely with your contractor through the planning stages and be sure to ask them how long a project is likely to last.

However, it’s important to plan ahead and have enough spare time for adjustment in case any unavoidable delays happen (for instance due to bad weather) then you won’t have to rush things towards the end.

Consider working with qualified and seasoned local contractors to avoid any unnecessary delays that might result from the team not being prompt with their work.

2. It Will Get Messy

This might not be something that your contractor wants to avoid revealing to you. They may not tell you because it’s pretty much common knowledge that things tend to get messy with construction and renovation projects.

However, it’s always wise to understand to what extent it would be too messy. Be it renovations or new construction projects in Calgary, this is something you should prepare for.

This can result in part from the dusty nature of this place, but it will also largely be the result from cutting wood and other materials.

It is crucial to discuss with your contractor beforehand on how to contain contaminants, dust and debris to prevent them from becoming a nuisance across the entire home.

3. Unplanned Changes to the Design Plan Could Cost You Money

As your vision comes to life, and you see the amazing transformation of your property, it’s easy to get ideas on how you can make it even better.

You have the right to bring up your thoughts, opinions, and suggestions for improvements. However, keep in mind that this will almost always attract an additional cost.

As tempting as it is to suggest additions to the project, your contractor might not explain the numbers very clearly.

And what seemed like a simple addition at first could easily end up costing you more than you expected – potentially even stalling or delaying the original project later on.

4. Given the Choice, SOME Contractors Would Cut Corners

If it were up to the contractor, some of them would go for the fastest, and often the cheapest materials for your project.

This isn’t the case for all contractors, of course, but the truth of the matter is that unscrupulous contractors will easily go for that “builder’s special”.

For instance, with interior paint, a contractor might go for the option that is easy to apply and dries fast. But this could come at the expense of durability and reliability.

Keep in mind that your home project’s success is all up to you. So, make sure to be specific about the materials you’d like to use in the project.

It might be costly at first, but it could be the best decision for the long term.

Working with trustworthy contractors can save you the hassle of having to keep tabs on everything. EA Built is big on delivering unbeaten quality – with lasting warranty on products to ensure your peace of mind.

5. A Contractor Would Choose a Perfectionist Client over a Legal Opponent

That’s right. Any contractor, pretty much anyone in general, would rather deal with a rather straightforward (although that might come across as being impolite) client.

It’s always better to have everything outlined clearly than having to deal with resentments that end up turning into lawsuits later on. It helps to have a clear list of the things you want done and how in a professional and friendly manner.

6. Contractors Don’t Like Having to Reuse Your Old Stuff

While you might have those old components of your property that you’re not yet willing to let go, they may prove to be a challenge for your contractor.

A kitchen cabinet, for instance, might seem strong when in place, but very brittle once it comes to taking it down. Many homeowners have personal attachment to parts of their home, and might want their contractor to pull, refurbish, and reuse it.

However, it is important to note that this brings a new set of challenges. And if anything, you should be ready and comfortable with the additional time and cost that may come from having it carefully taken out and patched up for re-use.

From a cost-saving standpoint, this might actually end up costing you more money. Besides, it might not fit in very well with the other new installations, tainting the final look and making the contractor’s job seem shoddy.

It’s also worth noting that some of the old stuff in your house may not meet the modern standards and might not pass inspection.

You should discuss this beforehand with your contractor rather than bring it up once the project is already underway.

Get Professionals with a Proven Track Record

For any of your construction or renovation projects, working with professional contractors whom you can trust can save you a lot of inconveniences.

Having been in business for over a decade, EA Built has become a trend-setter in offering top-of-the-line high-end construction or remodeling services.

From indoor projects to deck and fence construction services in Calgary, we are the perfect choice for homeowners seeking professional and proven service quality.