Budget extra money, time, patience

I have an exciting update on my own remodeling project: We are done! Well, that’s not entirely true—there are still a few last details that need to be taken care of, but basically it is done. The new kitchen is very comfortable, with plenty of counter space, cabinet space and lighting. My new office is wonderful, with lots of windows and a large built-in desk. And the new bathroom is a welcome addition as well. I am delighted with how it all turned out. I love the cheerful color scheme—yellow walls with accents of blue and red. I love the sunlight streaming through the new skylights and windows. I love the gleaming black granite and cobalt blue glass tiles. The house is colorful and inviting, ready for family and friends to enjoy.

As you may recall, I began planning this project in January of last year. Construction began in October, and in March we are just about complete. Even with a great general contractor and no major setbacks or surprises, the project still took a long time, with some challenges and added costs. For those of you embarking on your own remodeling projects, I offer the following points to keep in mind:

• When the contractor estimates he will be done in 3-4 months, add at least another month to that deadline. This delay can be the result of several things including: weather conditions; busy subcontractors trying to squeeze you into their schedule; parts that have to be ordered; changes that you decide to make to the project; unforeseen problems with plumbing or wiring; or any number of other small issues that come up.
• Apart from the construction costs, there are a host of other costs you should bear in mind: Because our kitchen was out of commission for about 2 months, we ate out a lot. In addition, we had to live in a hotel for a week while our wood floors were being refinished. Also, unbeknownst to us, our heating ducts were left disconnected for several weeks, sending all our heat under the house. Along with the increased electricity usage for all the power tools, the result was three huge PG&E bills.
• Don’t do any landscaping until everything is done. The yard will take a beating, as the construction crew brings tools, equipment, lumber and debris through the yard.
• Just when you think you are done, you’re not—the new plumbing has a leak; a worker tracks mud on your new carpet; an electrical outlet does not work.
• If you want to reuse cabinets or light fixtures, be sure to let the crew know before demolition. Our crew was pretty good about asking us what we wanted to keep but even so, a light fixture was inadvertently thrown away and our mailbox was damaged.

Despite any frustrations along the way, I am very happy with my house, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. We will enjoy the added space for many years to come. Next: the landscaping.

This article first appeared in Alameda Newspaper Group papers on March 19, 2005.

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All articles copyright 2003-2008 Anna Jacoby.