A Renovation Journey.
Join us for a continuing series as we bring a relatively untouched, tired-looking 1960’s builder’s-box bungalow into the 21st century.
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By Masha Koyen
Every residential construction project is completed in phases. Contractors follow a logical process to save time and money by avoiding unnecessary steps.
In our continuing Ready.Set. Reno! project series we’ve partnered with a team of top renovation experts to help make your renovations easier — and safer. Let’s look at these nine essential phases common to every residential construction project. You’ll see better results with your home renovations when you know where to begin.
1 Site Protection
Depending on the scope of your residential construction project, your site — a.k.a. the rest of your home — will need protection before any work begins. This often includes sealing off areas of the home not involved in the renovation. Site protection continues throughout the project, such as laying down floor protection during the painting phase.
2 Demolition and Waste Disposal
Demolition removes and disposes of anything that is being replaced or rebuilt. This phase should be completed all at once to avoid delays. Renting a dumpster from a waste disposal professional like Simplii Trash, a modern, eco-conscious trash management service, keeps the waste contained to one area as you continue with construction. This eliminates the headache of trying to get rid of large garbage buildup on your own. Once demolition is complete, they will take the dumpster away and ensure the waste is disposed of properly and safely. This is by far the most convenient, efficient, and not to mention, responsible way of disposing of waste.
Tip: Consider materials that might be salvageable as they can be repurposed, sold or donated.
3 Framing
Once everything is cleared out, your contractor — or you if you happen to be DIYing your reno — has a clean slate. In this phase of the construction project, you’re ready for the framing required for new walls, support beams, as well as windows and doors. Framing is a critical step in your project, depending on how extensive your new build or reno is.
Interestingly, if you look at your overall budget, framing may cost up to 18-20% of your entire home construction budget. It’s pretty eye-opening so you want to make sure to get this one right.
4 Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical
Also known as the rough-in phase, this step includes all your electrical, plumbing, ducts for HVAC systems and special installations like a central vacuum system. Plumbing and electrical work must then be inspected to make sure the entire project is up to code.
5 Drywall Installation
Once everything is roughed in, you’re ready for the drywall phase of your project. Drywall sheets are hung and compound is applied to create a smooth seal between each sheet and joint. Once the compound has dried, the walls and ceiling should be sanded — a step so often overlooked by DYI renovators. The sanding essentially prepares the wall for priming to ensure the walls hold the paint or wallpaper well.
Did you know drywall has a front and back? So, if you install it the wrong way, the paint or any other finish you choose for your walls will look uneven.
“Drywall installation and finishing of a custom house requires high level skill, experience and attention to detail,” says Ali Ali from Sultan Contractors, an expert in insulation and drywall. “The quality of subsequent contractors who do painting and trim work depend on the quality of drywall installation. That’s why it is always important to ask drywall contractors for solid industry referrals before hiring!”
6 Installation of End Point Devices
End-point devices include electrical outlets, lights, light switches, sinks, showers, bathtubs and faucets. These devices are installed by various trades and then inspected once more.
7 Tiling
The final stage for kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms is tiling, which may include bathtub surrounds, floors and backsplashes.
8 Priming and Painting
Your sanded drywall requires a special primer to ensure the surface is ready for paint. Without primer the paint won’t adhere properly to the walls. Once the primer is applied, the painting and/or wallpapering begins.
9 Trim
Traditionally, the final phase of your renovation project is the installation of baseboards, door trim, window trim and crown moulding. However, contractors often vary on the order they prefer to complete painting, flooring and trim.
Keep in mind your renovation could also have miscellaneous installs such as special light fixtures, hanging special doors, custom wood paneling, fireplace surrounds or mantles, home theatres, etc. These are the finishing touches that make your house a home.
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Watch for the project Website and YouTube channel coming soon! ready-set-reno.ca
Masha Koyen is the Founder of Content Vertical, Copywriting and Content Strategy for the Design-Build industry.