Home improvement projects can be expensive. While the size and complexity of a project will affect how expensive the project is, homeowners can expect to shell out a pretty penny when they renovate or remodel areas of their home.
Most homeowners experience “sticker shock” when obtaining quotes on home renovation projects. But renovation–minded homeowners need not reconsider their commitment to remodeling, as there are various ways to cut the costs associated with home improvement projects.
One such way is for homeowners to pitch in and do some of the work themselves. Calculating labor costs can be difficult, as such costs can vary greatly depending on the project and the specific contractor chosen for the project. However, some estimates suggest labor will account for anywhere from 25 to 50 percent of the overall cost of the project. So it’s no surprise that homeowners can save themselves substantial amount of money by doing some of the work themselves.
Homeowners who intend to do some of the labor themselves should discuss this plan with the contractors during the vetting process. They should also specifically request input from the contractor on any project items they would suggest the homeowner consider handling and how much that might save in the overall project cost. It is critical before hiring a contractor that the expected labor contributions are clearly defined in the contract. You should also see if the contractor can offer their professional input on how you can best accomplish any tasks the homeowner is willing to tackle. It is also important to clearly coordinate the timing/scheduling of the homeowner’s work contributions so the project is effectively coordinated and completed on schedule.
While it’s best to leave the most complicated parts of a project to the professionals, homeowners can pitch in during the following phases.
Demolition
Demolition involves more than picking up a sledgehammer and swinging away. Some demolition projects are best left to the pros. For example, any projects that involves that involve exposure to hazardous materials are risky and therefore best left to experienced laborers. However, many homeowners are capable of safely and effectively pulling cabinets from walls, removing flooring and baseboards, or knocking down drywall. Homeowners unsure of how to approach demolition tasks can ask their contractors to demonstrate the proper techniques so demolition is done right and on time.
Salvage
Removing debris and items that will no longer be needed once the renovation is complete is another way homeowners can pitch in. Homeowners remodeling their kitchens may be replacing their existing stoves and refrigerators and hoping to donate these items. In such instances, driving the items to the donation site or arranging for them to be picked up rather than taken off the premises by the contractor can cut labor costs.
Cleanup
Homeowners also can save costs by cleaning up after the contractors at the end of each workday. Speak with the contractor about cleaning up the site each day, asking him or her what can be discarded and what must remain on-site.
Home improvement projects can be costly, but homeowner who are capable of pitching in can greatly reduce the overall cost of their next renovation project.
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