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Making renovations to your home can be exciting and ultimately improve the function of the spaces you use every day. But renovating can also be incredibly frustrating when you make mistakes. The good news (for you) is that you can learn from the mistakes of others and aim to avoid them before you ever get started on your own renovations. Here are a few examples of common renovation mistakes to avoid.

Choosing the Wrong Drywall Thickness

Most amateur drywallers choose ¼ inch pieces for their projects. This is an understandable mistake, but the problem is that you will be left with paper thin walls when all is said and done. For sturdier, more soundproof walls, opt for ¾ inch thick drywall boards.

Choosing Organic Flooring Materials for the Basement

Basement renovations often include flooring upgrades, and the mistake homeowners make when it comes to this is choosing an organic flooring material. Basements are naturally damp. This can cause natural materials like wood and bamboo to warp and lift over time. These organic materials can also be an invitation for mold. It is wiser to choose materials like ceramic, vinyl, and tile for basement flooring since these options stand up to moisture better.

Foregoing Prep Work When Painting

Skipping prep work is tempting but doing so will leave you with less than satisfactory results. To achieve a professional quality paint job, make sure to prepare surfaces well. Patch any damaged parts of walls, sand rough spots, and clean the surfaces well. It is also imperative that you do not skip primer! Primer hides imperfections and allows you to get good coverage without using a lot of paint.

Ignoring Serious Problems

Structural, electrical, and plumbing work are critical to the function of your home. It can be tempting to push off mending these areas in favor of a more exciting renovation but addressing these areas first will save you in the long run.

So, the next time you plan a renovation project, avoid making these common mistakes.

If you are in the market for a home, why not choose one that doesn’t need renovations? Take a look at our inventory of move-in ready homes today!