EVERY home project begins with an idea and ends with the culmination of the job.
In between, there are three main components of an improvement project that can mean the difference between success and frustration: Planning, permits and protection.
Planning
The initial stage of a renovation is the planning stage. Planning is when a homeowner works through the concept of the project and determines what is necessary to complete the task.
Many people find it helpful to write out plans and draw up the concept on paper. This doesn't require expensive architectural software. A simple piece of graph paper plotted with measurements and a sketch is often sufficient for small projects. If the job will be expansive and require an architect or engineer, he or she will often provide a technical drawing.
If the project focuses more on decorating than building, some find it helpful to create a design board. This is where fabric swatches, paint colour samples, pictures of furniture and accessories, and any other components of the room are put together. Having a design board enables the homeowner to go to the store with board in tow and match up items to things in the store.
Another part of the planning stage is establishing a budget and determining the project's financing. It can be helpful to make a list of all income and expenses and find out how much funding is left over for a project. When getting estimates on the work, whether it will be done by a contractor or a DIY project, the homeowner should then make a list of approximate costs (rounding up) and then compare it against the available funds.
Permits
Many projects, especially those involving building, demolition, electrical work, or mold remediation, require permits issued by the city in which the work will be taking place. The purpose of permits and subsequent inspections is often questioned by homeowners looking to circumvent the system. However, building permits are required to ensure public safety, health and welfare as they are affected by building construction, structural strength, zoning, and code requirements. In essence, building permits are how the government regulates safety and protects both current and future residents of the property.
In many cases, homeowners will need to visit city hall and apply for a permit. The permit may not immediately be issued. Often, there is a waiting period during which the project's legality and safety is examined. Once the project is approved, the applicant will be able to file for the actual permit(s). There is usually a fee or fees for permit application, which covers any clerical work.
Work should not begin until a permit is received, and then the permit generally has to be placed in plain sight, such as in a window of the building.
Depending on building codes, inspections of the work may need to take place after all of the project is completed or during certain phases. For example, the building of a deck may require inspections after footings are installed and secured, and before the upper portions of the decking materials are attached.
If an inspection takes place afterward, the inspector will be looking for key code issues to determine whether the work was completed successfully. If a contractor was used, he or she may have to be present at the time of the inspection. If the work passes, an approval will be given and put on record. If the work fails, applicable repairs will have to be made and a reinspection will be scheduled.
Protection
Homeowners about to begin a project also need to emphasize safety. There are a number of things that can be on hand to make a work environment safer. These include:
- Eye protection: This is especially important when working with flying debris, cutting items, mixing caustic chemicals, etc.
- Respirator or face mask: Cover the nose or mouth when there is dust or debris in the air that can enter the lungs. When working with toxic fumes, such as when using spray paints or chemical lubricants, a respirator can offer clean air.
- Boots: Proper footwear ensures protection should an item fall on the foot or when walking where nails or other sharp items are located.
- Fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher should be nearby in the event of a mishap.
- First aid kit: An abrasion or cut may occur, requiring prompt care.
- Gloves: When the hands need to be protected or extra traction on surfaces is required, gloves can be a necessity.
- Headphones: Safety headphones can protect the ears against loud, consistent noises from power tools.
- Locks: A locked cabinet can store tools, paints, chemicals, and other improvement supplies so that young children or pets won't have access.
