Time for a home update? Watch out for these remodel signs

Johannes van Graan Johannes van Graan
Mr & Mrs H, Kitchen, Byfleet Village, Surrey, Raycross Interiors Raycross Interiors Modern kitchen
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If it’s not broke, don’t’ fix it. True, but sometimes we become so used to that broken thing that we start seeing it as normal. All the while, a fresh update is waiting around the corner to turn that broken space into something practical and stylish!

Truth be told, home renovations and remodelling projects can be quite expensive, hence why we don’t recommend them if not absolutely necessary. However, when wear and tear has worked to such an extreme that they are affecting your home’s resale value or have turned it into an unsafe space for living, then a renovation becomes vital.

But how do you know if your house is ready for a remodelling or not? By inspecting it and looking for these well-known remodel signs…

1. Remodel signs: The floor

A clear sign that a renovation is needed is loose tile flooring, as that can result in hazardous spaces. Loose tiles means that the grout is wearing off. Of course we have two options here: just re-grout the tiles if they’re still in mint condition, or opt for a complete switch-up by replacing the tiles with something new, like wooden floors. 

Keep in mind that wooden floors are the perfect choice should you plan on selling your house later on, as hardwood floors are a great return on investment. 

When it comes to carpeting, high-traffic areas need to be replaced about every 10 years, as there’s nothing sadder than worn-out carpeting (which could drag the look of your entire house down).

2. Remodel signs: Your roof

You don’t want to play around with a rotting roof. So, whether it’s just a leak or two or a sign that the entire roofing system is compromised, best make work of fixing this as soon as possible.

Budget-wise, a new roof’s price will depend on the type of shingles and the size of your roof. But rather get a professional to come and do a decent inspection to ensure you take care of the problem the appropriate way.

3. Remodel signs: Too much (or too little) space

Ever feel that something in a room is just off? That a certain space is too crowded or too vast? That could mean tearing down a (or building a new) wall to rectify the problem. However, sometimes it’s simply a matter of relocating a few furnishings to rectify the issue.

So, before you phone up a contractor, first try moving around a few sofas, tables and bookcases and see if that helps creating more (or less) space. If not, it could be a sign that a room remodel is needed.

4. Remodel signs: Poor paintjobs

Were you in charge of painting those walls, or were they already painted upon moving in? When any wall isn’t properly cleaned and primed beforehand, it won’t take long for the paint to start chipping. 

But don’t just slap on a new coat of colour. First, remove the existing paint with a steel wool. Then, clean the wall properly and apply putty on all holes and uneven surfaces. That will help the new paint layer to evenly adhere to the wall.

5. Remodel signs: Termites

Hear hollow sounds when knocking on the wooden surfaces of your home? Could be a sign that there’s a termite party underway. Rather be safe than sorry. Ring up a pest control expert to come and do a thorough investigation.

And to prevent termite infestation in future, have your home sprayed with solignum every four to six months.

6. Remodel signs: When doorknobs give up

Don’t wait until a guest or your child gets locked inside a room – replace those old doorknobs with new ones right away. 

For more ergonomically designed options, lever-type doorknobs are advisable. That way, when your hands are full (like carrying groceries), it’s much easier to just push the doorknob down with your elbow.

7. Remodel signs in your kitchen

So, how do you know when the heart of your home is in need of some fixing?   

• When outdated appliances wreak havoc with your electricity bill. If you suspect that one of your kitchen appliances is putting a strain on your bills budget, have them checked out. Over time, brand-new appliances could actually pay for themselves. 

• You are much too short on counter- and storage space. Not enough prepping surfaces for cooking and baking? Struggling to fit all your kitchen accessories into cabinets? A kitchen remodel that expands your storage- and/or counter space could make a massive difference.  

• Your kitchen doesn’t suit your lifestyle. Love to cook, but finding it difficult in that cramped kitchen? Struggling to entertain with your kitchen being separated too far from the rest of your home? If your culinary layout is affecting your lifestyle and you plan on living in that house for quite some time, that could be reason enough to give your kitchen a makeover.  

• Your kitchen is affecting your home’s resale value. A little odd quirk here and there is of no concern if you’re happily content with your ever-after house. But if you’re looking to sell, that cooking space needs to be close to perfection. Get in contact with a professional real estate agent and kitchen planner to see what can be done. 

Definitely thinking about selling? See these 8 Ways You Can Add More Value to A House.

What other signs would you watch out for before considering a home remodel?

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