Have you ever found yourself gazing wistfully at a new home magazine, wishing that your house looked like that? Do you find yourself putting off repairs because it feels like you will just have to replace them eventually, so it isn’t worth the hassle? Knowing when to repair and when to go ahead and remodel is an important distinction worth exploring as a homeowner!
Falling Apart
It is a fact of life that things break, and houses are no different: roofs leak, floors get scratched, tiles crack. As a homeowner, you are responsible for addressing the damage. It can be tempting to ignore the issue, but pushing off the problem almost always leads to a more expensive repair down the road.
Sometimes, our homes are not necessarily in need of repair, but they have some horrendous shag carpet from the 70s that we just can’t bear to look at a moment longer. It can be hard to know when to remodel vs repair your home, so let the battle begin!
When To Repair
It is a very important skill to learn when to repair issues in your home. Minor paint scuffs can be touched up by hand, small scratches can be buffed out of floors with a little wax, but often you need a professional opinion.
Calling a general contractor is a great first step in the repair process. They will inspect the issue and give you an idea of both the extent of the damage and the cost to fix it. Often, your general contractor will make the arrangements for the repair, and you can kick back, relax, and watch them restore your home!
When To Replace
When wondering whether to remodel or repair your home, sometimes a repair is not possible, and a replacement is recommended instead. If the repair is not an option, then you don’t have to worry about making a choice. Often, though, your contractor will offer you two options: a fix or a replacement.
The fix is generally cheaper, but comes with the caveat that the replacement is still inevitable. If you can pay for the replacement up front, it will save you both money and stress in the long run. For example, you can re-vamp your electrical panel, with the understanding that it is still not as safe as it could be and will need to be replaced entirely in 5 years, or you can replace your panel now and sit confidently in the knowledge that your home is safe for the next 25 plus years.
A Roof Over Your Head
One of the most common struggles in knowing when to remodel vs repair your home is your roof. Roof issues are among the most common problems homeowners run into. Roofs are one of the most likely places in your home to be damaged, as they are exposed to temperature extremes, extreme weather like hail and wind, and falling branches from trees.
Repairs are frequently insufficient or ongoing, leading to constant stress about leaks. Remodeling with a new roof is more expensive, but it brings long-term peace of mind.
Roofs also have an age limit for how long their materials hold up: shingles usually last 20-25 years, metal lasts 40-80 years, and slate lasts 75-100 years. If you are repairing an 18-year-old shingle roof, it is better to bite the bullet and replace it instead to save money in the long run.
A Floor Beneath Your Feet
Floors are another culprit for damage. They get used quite literally every day, especially in high-traffic areas of the home like the kitchen and entrances. Wood floors can be refinished several times, so if you have one that is looking scratched and dingy, call a contractor to restore it to its glossy prime!
Tile is very durable, but not immune to cracking. Often, when trying to remove a cracked tile, other tiles are damaged in the process. Unless you are very attached to your tile, a remodel with all new tile is often recommended. Tile comes in almost every shape, style, and color, so have fun with it!
From Outdated To Outdone
When to remodel your home? Sometimes, the issue isn’t damage, but just that your home is outdated and isn’t working for you. This may look like:
- The previously mentioned shag carpet
- Wanting a new open concept living room to enjoy with your friends and family
- Updating your light fixtures to the 21st century
- Re-tiling an outdated bathroom
- And more!
A general contractor will be very helpful in realizing your vision for your home. They will let you know which walls are load-bearing, and what is and isn’t possible to remodel.
Make Your Home Work For You!
If you have been ignoring a repair or wanting a fresh look for your home, schedule an appointment with GB Contracting today!
