When renovating a single room or your entire home, there are plenty of elements to consider. Where do you start? Of course, you should decide the overall look, feel and function of your renovation. However, certain elements need planning in advance due to logistics and the renovation process.
Take note of some of the most crucial design decisions you need to make in the earliest stages of your renovation.
Lighting
Your electrician will need your lighting plans as early as possible so they can figure out the wiring. You do not want to be left in the dark with poor lighting. Aside from finding the optimal spot for lighting fixtures, you also want to figure out where to place switches.
Alarm and data systems
Similar to your lighting systems, the electrician will need to know if what other electrical systems are being placed. This includes Wi-Fi, alarm and TV cables. Do not leave these details until the last minute or you and your electrician will be setting back the renovation schedule with constant re-wiring.
Windows
Windows can take a while to construct and arrive, so make your choice early on. Without your windows on site, builders cannot insulate and sheet the walls. Make sure your finished windows are ready when they need to be installed or your entire renovation plan will be delayed.
Skylight
Speaking of windows, why not consider adding a skylight? This impressive feature is a great addition to any home in Queensland where we get bright, sunny days for most of the year. Just like your windows, be sure to lock this decision down so that your skylight is on site and ready to be installed on schedule.
Tiles
This is especially important if you are renovating the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room. Choose your tiles as early as you can so your builder can make the necessary plans. They will need to determine the location of drains and the thickness of the screed bed or the cement flooring beneath the tiles. The type of tile will also affect how the builder’s plans for creating a subtle slope towards drains.
Tapware
Choosing taps for a bathroom renovation is fun, but do it as soon as possible or you may find your preferred tapware is out of stock. Also decide if the tapware will be coming out of the sink or, for a chicer and more modern look, out of the wall. Your builder and plumber will also appreciate taking a look at your choice of tapware so they can figure out how to the tiles and tapware will go in the bathroom.
Shower niche
A shower niche is a handy feature and much more stylish compared to a shower caddy you can buy at the store for your shampoo bottles and other bathroom needs. Figure out where the shower niche goes as well as its depth and height before the tiles go on.
Wall trims
Wall trims are great for adding a personal and ornate touch to your renovation. You can add details to the skirting, which is the base of the walls as well as the cornicing or the area between the wall and the ceiling. Standard designs are sleek and simple, but you can speak to your builder for more intricate options. Just be sure to let them know before the plasterer begins their job.
Peace and quiet
Always consider the function of each part of your renovation. Your choice of materials could greatly impact the limit of noise transfer around your home. Certain tiles and glass can carry more sound around your home than you might prefer. Speak to your builder about how you can optimise the peace and quiet in your home with the construction of walls and floors.
Exterior
Another aspect of your renovation that requires much thought with regards to function is the choice of exterior materials. While we normally get sunny weather in Queensland, you want to be sure you have a renovation that stands the elements and the test of time. Talk to your builder about not only what will make your home look good, but what will keep it stable according to the specifics of your property.
Want to book in a site visit, ask a question about our building process or talk through your project? Call us today on 0415 772 983