When it comes to home remodeling, planning is critical. While a detailed project plan doesn’t necessarily guarantee smooth sailing, it can make all the difference when it comes to dealing with problems along the way. Better yet, having a plan in place can prevent lengthy delays — and the frustration and added costs that accompany them.
5 Common Home Remodeling Delays & How to Prevent Them
Every project is different, but most home remodeling delays can be traced back to problems with the following:
- Materials
- Timelines
- Design changes
- Permits and inspections
- Project budgets
Learn more below about these common delays and how to keep them from slowing down your home remodeling project.
1. Materials
Certain materials can delay a renovation project, especially when it comes to special ordered or custom-made finishes. In other cases, an item or material may be back-ordered, discontinued, or arrive damaged. And let’s not forget the supply chain issues and shipping delays that have become all too common these days.
Working with an experienced contractor can help mitigate material-related delays because they’ve likely fine-tuned their selections process and fostered strong relationships with vendors over the years. While interviewing remodeling companies be sure to ask the following questions:
- Which vendors do you use for materials and finishes?
- What is the selections process like?
- How often are vendor lists updated to accommodate product availability?
- How much lead time is required for custom materials and special ordered products?
- How much notice is typically provided if a product is no longer available?
2. Timelines
Whether you’re completing a small remodel or a large-scale project, there are a lot of moving parts to manage. Even one scheduling mix-up can have a domino effect that impacts the rest of the remodeling timeline, potentially pushing it back by several days, weeks, or months. The type of contractor you work with can play a significant role in how quickly the project is completed.
A traditional home remodeling contractor typically uses subcontractors to complete different construction phases. Unfortunately, this leaves them at the mercy of subcontractor schedules, which can change with little to no warning. In contrast, a design-build company is equipped to complete a large majority of the work in-house, from the initial design to construction and beyond. This limits delays and keeps your project on schedule and running smoothly.
3. Design Changes
Remodeling is a dynamic and complex process. With so many decisions to make, you may find yourself second-guessing your design selections — and that’s 100% okay. It’s why change orders exist. However, it’s essential to understand that making changes to the approved design proposal can result in a delay.
Working with a qualified designer can cut down on design indecision and keep changes to a minimum. At a design-build company, design services are built into the product offerings. This not only streamlines the process but helps you as the client feel comfortable making design choices. The designer is there to offer suggestions based on your style and budget and answer any questions you may have along the way.
4. Permits & Inspections
Permits and inspections are a natural — and important — part of the home remodeling process. If a permit hasn’t come through or an inspection is outstanding, the project may come to a standstill. A good contractor will be familiar with local permitting procedures and will incorporate enough lead time into the project schedule to accommodate the permitting and approval process.
5. Budget Overages
An accurate budget is a critical component of any remodeling project. Added costs can make or break the renovation, especially when it comes to financing and the schedule.
One way to ensure a project stays on track and within budget is to compare quotes from multiple companies. Does the cost of materials and labor seem consistent? It’s also essential to ask questions to ensure you understand what costs are included in the project proposal, including the project allowances.
Communication is Key to a Well-Executed Remodel
These tips will help you keep setbacks to a minimum, but sometimes delays are inevitable. That’s why effective communication is vital — and Excel Builders makes it a priority for every project. As a leading design-build company in the Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities area, we’ve fine-tuned our process to minimize project delays and keep things running smoothly.
Reliable Home Remodeling Contractor in Greater Chanhassen & Nearby
Ready to start planning your remodel? Call the Excel Builders team at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com.
We proudly serve Minnesota homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.