Resourceful Home Renovations Guide: Where To Spend & Where To Save
Renovating a home can be an exciting endeavour. But it can also be a daunting task with numerous decisions to make, especially when it comes to budgeting. You may find yourself facing the challenge of determining where to spend and where to save to make the most of your resources. So how can you stay resourceful when planning out your next home renovation project?
This handy guide covers everything you need to know about budgeting for a variety of home renovation projects. Read on to find out how you can help your hard-earned money stretch as far as possible.
Where To Spend and Save In Kitchen Renovations
It’s no secret that a well-designed kitchen renovation can significantly increase the value of your home, providing a high return on investment (or ‘ROI’). Alongside this, however, a newly renovated kitchen is also likely to provide improved functionality for you and your household.
Where to spend in kitchen renovations
Cabinetry
Investing in high-quality cabinets can greatly impact kitchen aesthetics and functionality. Opt for durable materials and consider features such as soft-close drawers for added convenience. You could even consider getting custom-made cabinets to suit your space perfectly.
It’s important to find a tradie who specialises in cabinetry and joinery. These professionals will be more likely to have the necessary expertise and experience required to design, manufacture, and install custom-made kitchen cabinets.
Countertops
Countertops are a focal point in the kitchen and can hold a great impact on the overall atmosphere and design scheme of your space. Consider investing in durable and low-maintenance materials, such as granite, quartz, or solid surface, as they offer longevity and are resistant to stains and scratches.
Lighting
Light is crucial in a kitchen for both functionality and aesthetics. Invest in good-quality lighting fixtures, such as LED recessed lights, under-cabinet lights, and pendant lights, to create a well-lit and inviting atmosphere. Proper task lighting ensures that you can see what you are doing, preventing accidents and mistakes, and making your kitchen more functional and efficient.
Appliances
Modern appliances are essential for any functional kitchen. Invest in energy-efficient appliances that are reliable and long-lasting. Look for kitchen appliances with longer warranties, as they can save you money in the long run by reducing repair and replacement costs.
Where to Save in kitchen renovations
Backsplash
You can renovate a kitchen without breaking the bank. While a backsplash can add visual interest to your kitchen, it doesn't have to break the bank. Consider using affordable materials, such as ceramic tiles or peel-and-stick backsplash – two easy, budget-friendly options.
Hardware
Cabinet knobs and pulls can be relatively inexpensive and easy to replace. You can find stylish options at affordable prices at any hardware or home store. Consider shopping around for budget-friendly hardware that complements the overall style of your kitchen.
Paint
Adding a fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective way to refresh the look of your kitchen without having to change too much at all. You can save money by painting the walls, ceiling, and cabinets yourself, or by opting for budget-friendly paint options.
Flooring
While flooring is important in a kitchen, there are affordable options available (such as laminate or vinyl flooring) that can mimic the look of more expensive materials like hardwood or tile. Consider these alternatives to save big on your kitchen flooring costs.
Where To Spend & Save In Bathroom Renovations
Upgrading tiles, flooring, paint, lighting fixtures, and other design elements can transform the look and feel of your bathroom, giving it a fresh and modern appearance.
Where to Spend In Bathroom Renovations
Fixtures and Fittings
Investing in high-quality fixtures and fittings, such as taps, shower heads, toilets, and vanities, can make a significant difference to the look and feel of your bathroom space. These fittings and fixtures are used daily, and so can greatly impact the overall functionality and longevity of your bathroom.
Tiles and Flooring
Tiles and flooring can also hold a great impact on the overall presentation of your bathroom space. Investing in high-quality tiles and flooring materials that are moisture-resistant, slip-resistant, and durable can ensure that your bathroom stands up to the test of time and looks great for years to come.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
Proper plumbing and electrical work are essential for a well-functioning bathroom. It’s crucial to hire qualified professionals for plumbing and electrical work, just to ensure that the installation is done correctly and meets building codes and regulations.
Spending on quality plumbing and electrical work can prevent future issues and ensure the safety and functionality of your bathroom.
Storage and Cabinetry
Adequate storage is important in every bathroom. Investing in custom cabinetry or built-in storage solutions can provide optimal storage space and further improve the functionality of your bathroom space.
If your renovation includes the removing of existing bathroom furniture, we recommend spending extra money in hiring a expert removal service like 1300 Rubbish, as they can significantly streamline and organize the renovation process.
Where to Save In Bathroom Renovations
Cosmetic Upgrades
Cosmetic upgrades like paint, accessories, and decor are all areas where you can save in a bathroom renovation. These items can easily be updated or replaced in the future without significant costs.
Non-Structural Changes
Moving plumbing or electrical lines, changing the layout, or expanding your bathroom can be expensive. Try to work within the room’s existing layout to save on costs wherever possible.
DIY vs. Professional Labour
Depending on your skills and experience, you may be able to save on labour costs by tackling some of the less complex renovation tasks yourself. Just be sure to maintain a realistic approach to your DIY. It's important to carefully evaluate your capabilities and seek professional help for more complex or technical tasks, like plumbing, electrical, and structural work.
Where To Spend & Save In Flooring
Choosing durable and high-quality flooring materials can help keep your home’s flooring in good condition for years to come.
Where To Spend
High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas in your home (i.e. entryways, hallways, and living rooms) typically experience more wear and tear compared to other areas. It's worth considering spending on durable and high-quality flooring materials for these areas, such as hardwood, luxury vinyl, or porcelain tiles.
Wet Areas
Areas in your home that are exposed to moisture (i.e. bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens) require flooring materials that are resistant to water damage. Investing in waterproof or water-resistant flooring options is recommended in these areas to prevent warping, mould growth, and other moisture-related issues.
Resale Value
If you are renovating with the intention of selling your home, investing in higher-quality flooring materials, designs, and installation can potentially increase the resale value of your property. Look for any opportunity to save on premium flooring like high-quality carpets or timber flooring.
Where To Save
Brand/Design Options
While well-known brands or premium design options may offer additional features, styles, or warranties, they can also come with a higher price tag. Consider saving by opting for less expensive brands or design options that still meet your functional and aesthetic requirements
Low Traffic/Non-Wet Areas
Areas in your home that are not exposed to excess traffic or moisture, may allow for more budget-friendly flooring options. For instance, hardwood, laminate, or carpeting can be more cost-effective flooring for those looking to renovate on a fixed budget.
Personalisation
Although it may be tempting to add a personal touch to your home design through selecting flooring that speaks to you, the square metres of any flooring material can add up very quickly. It’s best to take a more sensible approach when selecting flooring for your home. Go for functionality and cost-efficiency above all else.
Where To Spend Or Save In Home Exteriors
The exterior or ‘facade’ of your home is the first thing that anybody sees. A well-maintained and attractive exterior can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home, making it more appealing to potential future buyers, and perhaps even increasing its resale value to boot.
Where To Spend
Roofing: Investing in a high-quality roof is essential. A durable and well-installed roof can prevent leaks, water damage, and improve energy efficiency. Spending on quality materials and professional installation can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future.
Windows & Doors: Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors can improve the insulation and energy efficiency of your home, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs. Investing in quality windows and wood interior doors that are well-sealed, durable, and secure can provide long-term benefits.
Where To Save
Paint: While paint is an important aspect of your home's exterior, you can save by choosing budget-friendly paint options without compromising on quality. Opting for mid-grade or lower-cost paints can still provide adequate protection and aesthetics for your home's exterior.
Lighting: Outdoor lighting can enhance the safety and aesthetics of your home's exterior. You can save by choosing cost-effective lighting fixtures, using solar-powered or LED bulbs for energy efficiency, and focusing on key areas that require lighting rather than installing excessive lighting throughout your entire exterior.
Landscaping: Choosing cost-effective landscaping materials can also help you save on your renovation expenses. For example, you can opt for locally sourced materials, use gravel or mulch instead of expensive stone pavers, or selecting native or budget-friendly plants over costly ornamental flora.
Where to spend or save on Architectural Details
Architectural details are the finishing touches that enhance the presentation and design of your home.
Where to Spend On Architectural Details
Focal Points: Focal points (like entryways, staircases, and feature walls) are architectural elements that can create a strong visual impact and add character to your home. Consider investing in high-quality materials and superior craftsmanship for these focal points to create a stunning visual statement that sets the tone for your home.
Millwork: Custom millwork (like crown moulding, skirting boards, and trims) can add elegance and sophistication to your home. Investing in well-crafted, custom millwork can help create a polished and cohesive look for your home.
Where To Save
Non-Structural Details: Non-structural architectural details (i.e. decorative moulding) can add visual interest and style to your home without breaking the bank. Look for cost-effective options that provide the desired aesthetic effect without compromising on quality or durability.
Prioritisation: Another cost-saving strategy is to prioritise the custom architectural details in areas that will have the most impact or visibility in your home, such as the main living areas or focal points. This way, you can allocate your budget to the areas that matter the most and achieve a high-end look without overspending.
Repurposing/Upcycling: Consider repurposing or upcycling existing architectural details or materials from other sources to create custom features. For example, you can repurpose old doors or windows to create unique custom pieces, or use salvaged wood or metal to create custom railing or balustrades.
And there you have it — everything you need to know about where to spend and where to save on your next home renovation project. With a little thoughtful planning, homeowners can indeed achieve resourceful home renovations that don’t surpass their budgetary constraints.
