You’ve been dreaming of remodeling your home to add usable space for your family and friends to gather together. You found a contractor who understands your vision and wants to partner with you to make it a reality. The proposal is approved, and the contract is signed, so what’s next? As your contractor is focused on doing their due diligence with permitting, scheduling, and building code requirements, you will begin shopping for the fixtures and other essential components that will beautify your new space!
A renovation project involves countless decisions to make. Here are 3 tips to keep your selection process smoothly moving forward as you source the perfect finishes and fixtures for your home:
- Get organized. I recommend a 3-ring binder or large folder to store a copy of your contract, your project notes, a cost breakdown, ideas, shopping lists, a copy of your contractor’s preferred vendors and suppliers, and an envelope or pouch for receipts, paint chips, and other small items.Speak with your contractor about their selection process so you’re clear on who is responsible for which purchases. They will likely have a list of selections you’ll need for your project along with their allowance amounts to keep you on budget. There are a lot of details to track, but being organized and prepared will help you ward off decision fatigue, and save you time and money!
- Work with your contractor or their purchasing coordinator so you understand the deadlines for your selections. This gives them time to purchase what you choose and have it on site for their team to build or install. They will have recommendations for you and know where to find the best deals on what you’re shopping for. Just ask.
- There is a natural order to follow when working through your selections list. Focus on the items with the longest lead time first, then everything needed before rough plumbing and rough electric, and continue through your list until everything is accounted for. Things to keep in mind:
- Semi-custom and custom cabinetry can take anywhere from four to ten weeks depending on the brand and company you choose.
- Higher-end appliances can take a few weeks to several months to be available.
- Tile that ships from another state, or country, can take several weeks to arrive.
- Cabinetry & bath vanities – the plumber needs to know where to install pipes and drains.
- Shower Trim Kits with rough-in valves.
- Appliances & light fixtures – this informs the electrician where to install and what size wire to use based on the power requirements of the appliance.
There are a lot of details and moving parts in a home remodel, so ask questions. From start to finish, a good contractor will guide you through the process, so make sure to vet your contractor on their selection process before you hire them. A little research, planning, and organization will go a long way in giving you peace of mind as your project progresses.
From bathroom fixtures like shower heads, plumbing fixtures, and bathroom vanities, to kitchen appliances and kitchen cabinets, the fixture purchase process can be stressful, but we’re here to walk you through every step of the way. Contact us at Koeppen Construction for your next remodeling project!