6 Common Home Renovation Mistakes People Often Make in the Winter

1. Selecting incorrect materials and equipment

Not all materials are capable of enduring freezing temperatures and snowy conditions. It is crucial to select materials that can withstand colder temperatures and adverse weather conditions.

2. Neglecting electrical safety hazards.

Working with electricity during the winter poses a potential danger, especially after heavy snowfall. Moisture can cause circuits and fuses to malfunction, while poorly insulated wires may suffer damage from the cold. Furthermore, downed power lines on your property could be energized, resulting in electrocution if touched. Additionally, snowstorms frequently lead to power outages, which could hinder completion of work.

3. Disregarding snow and ice.

Winter weather brings challenges for construction projects that many homeowners may not fully anticipate. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions around the home, posing risks such as slips and falls on slick surfaces and potential injuries from falling ice debris. Additionally, icy temperatures increase the risk of cold stress-related injuries, such as hypothermia and frostbite. It’s important to plan work schedules around the weather, and if work must continue, to ensure that workers dress appropriately for the conditions.

4. Neglecting holiday schedules.

Holidays and travel arrangements can cause disruptions in your work. You wouldn't want your tile shipment to be delayed or your contractor to be unavailable during your project due to holiday backlogs. Many contractors and suppliers close down during the holidays, but with careful planning, you can avoid any potential issues.

5. Do not provide indoor space for subcontractors.

Subcontractors such as painters and tile setters play a crucial role in any renovation project. It is important to provide them with ample space to work and to be particularly considerate of their requirements, especially in unfavorable or chilly weather conditions.

Many craftsmen choose to establish their workspace outdoors or in a garage for the "messier" aspects of their work. However, in the winter months, the cold weather requires them to have indoor space for setting up and operating their tools," he explains. It is important to maintain open communication with subcontractors and ensure they have ample space to complete their work accurately.

6. Undertaking specific projects during the inappropriate season.

Winter presents an excellent opportunity for indoor home renovations, as the controlled climate can facilitate the process. However, for outdoor projects such as home additions or new roofs, it's prudent to await warmer temperatures. Excavating frozen ground or pouring concrete in temperatures lower than 40 degrees is impractical. Additionally, working on a roof during poor weather conditions can be hazardous due to the inherent slipperiness of roofs, particularly in the aftermath of rain, snow, or ice. Winter environments are not conducive to installing items that require temperature control, such as doors, windows, and flooring.

By utilizing the Renovation Calculator at My Home, you can effectively identify and rank the enhancements that offer the highest return on investment (ROI), enhance your home's appeal in the market, attract prospective buyers, and potentially increase its selling price. Simply follow a few easy steps to obtain the cost for remodeling, adding, or expanding in just a few minutes.