How to save on apartment repairs?
Apartment renovation is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process that can take years. To complete it as quickly as possible while reducing costs without compromising the interior, you should consider using several tricks for saving on renovations.
What you can save on during renovation
To understand how to save on apartment renovation, you first need to manage your budget and consider the details that can be reduced or done by yourself.
Construction tools
If you plan to do the renovation yourself, a good decision would be to save on specialized tools. Electrical tools are not cheap, and for decorating a living space from scratch, you'll need more than just a drill and angle grinder; you'll also need other electrical appliances. Building experts recommend choosing models that are not too expensive, without overpaying for the brand, or even considering renting the necessary tools.
Materials
When considering where to save during renovation, we often focus on materials – both consumables and decorative. Saving money on them is possible and necessary, but you should not overdo it. A smart way to save in this case is to choose reputable manufacturers from the mid-range segment rather than expensive elite brands without paying extra for the brand name.
Another tip is to cleverly combine inexpensive and expensive materials. For example, cheap plaster covering the walls can spoil expensive paint and cause wallpaper to peel off.
Furniture
One of the major expenses during renovation is purchasing furniture. If your apartment or house has a standard layout, is newly built, or was purchased on the secondary market, you can save money. Most furniture constructions are available in stores ready-made, and their cost is lower than custom-made models, with no difference in quality.
The only advice is not to skimp on the materials used for furniture. Choose wood, MDF, or particleboard, as they do not contain toxic substances, do not delaminate, and have an extended service life.
Cleaning
The removal of construction waste is one of the largest expenses in the final stage of renovation. However, there is a simple solution. Start your work from the farthest room and progress towards the exit. This way, waste accumulates in one place, and you can possibly dispose of it all at once. It is best to order the removal of bulky construction waste once, as this service is not the cheapest in any city in Ukraine. You can also save if the construction company doing the renovation takes care of waste removal after completing the work.
What not to economize on during renovation
How to save on renovation without compromising the quality of the interior finish? To achieve this, certain items should be excluded from your list of cost-cutting measures.
Labor
Saving on labor is only possible if you have experience and can carry out the renovation yourself. Otherwise, choose a company with a good reputation, a track record of completed projects, and genuine customer reviews. Avoid rushing into the hands of "budget" contractors who promise to do the work with minimal expenses.
Design and planning
If you want to remodel your apartment or house from scratch, you'll need an experienced designer with a strong portfolio. It's better to pay a professional who can visualize the renovation once than to do it yourself and make costly adjustments or end up with something different from your expectations. Having a designer involved in the renovation process ensures cost savings through a well-thought-out budget.
Windows and doors
When it comes to saving on renovation without compromising, invest in high-quality windows and doors. Models from reputable European manufacturers offer reliable sound and thermal insulation, while entry doors provide security and protection against break-ins. It's not advisable to skimp on the number of glazing layers, especially if you live in a noisy area near a road or in the city center. Choosing poor and cheap hardware is not the best way to save money, as window and door replacements due to their breakdown will cost even more.
Engineering
Renovation work involving energy, gas, water supply, sewage, ventilation, and heating systems is not the place for significant cost-cutting. The quality of work in this area determines not only the comfort of living but also the safety of staying in the building. Good pipes will prevent flooding, and quality installation will protect against accidental fires.
Plumbing
Plumbing products are long-lasting items that are bought and installed for an extended period. Therefore, pay attention to reputable manufacturers, thoroughly research the market, familiarize yourself with the available products, and the materials they are made from. It's not recommended to economize on these items, as low-quality fixtures may result in quick damage and leaks in your bathroom or sink.
Flooring
When deciding where to save on renovation, exclude the floor and its coverings from the list. Floors are subject to maximum daily wear and tear, so different rooms will require different types of flooring. For kitchens, bathrooms, and toilets, invest in high-quality tiles that can withstand increased moisture. When choosing linoleum, opt for high wear resistance. This also applies to parquet or laminate, as cheap options tend to wear, shrink, and make creaking noises under load.
