What To Expect During a Home Exterior Renovation Project

A home renovation is an exciting chance to transform your space into something that better suits your needs, reflects your style, and increases your home's value. However, embarking on such a project often involves navigating a complex and sometimes overwhelming process.

If you’re a homeowner or a first-time renovator unsure of what to expect during a home exterior renovation project, it’s time to learn the steps of the process, challenges that commonly occur, and how to prevent and solve them. With these practical insights into home renovations, you can prepare for this transformative experience in ways that guarantee it goes smoothly from start to finish.

Phase 1: Planning and Budgeting

The first part of every successful renovation is a well-thought-out plan. This phase is where you'll determine the scope of your project and the associated costs.

Make a list of your renovation priorities and separate them into “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” For instance, a new roof is a necessity if you’ve noticed cracked shingles, sagging, or leaks. Comparatively, a new porch may just be a “want” you can wait to add after taking care of the essentials.

Make sure you can afford your anticipated changes. Designate ten to fifteen percent of your total budget for contingencies, as stormy weather or the uncovering of wood rot can delay exterior work. Avoid spending the maximum of your budget at the outset, so you have more flexibility for changes or unforeseen expenses. Ask contractors for itemized quotes to break down costs for labor, materials, and permits, so you fully understand where your money is going.

Phase 2: Hiring Contractors

Make sure you hire the right contractor for the job. Important questions to ask a contractor before hiring them include the following:

“Can you provide references from similar projects you've completed?”
“What is your timeline for completing this project?”
“Are permits needed, and will you handle securing them?”

The contractors’ answers to these questions plus portfolios of previous projects, reviews, and recommendations can help you make the right choice. Homeowners in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan who need exterior remodeling services can look to Schmucker Quality Construction. We service several of these states’ counties within sixty miles of Fort Wayne, Indiana, so you’ve likely seen our work while traveling throughout your community and the surrounding areas.

The results of our high-quality construction demonstrate our contractors’ expertise in using specialized tools and techniques and durable materials. Our precise and accurate yet efficient renovations allow you to quickly sit back and take in your upgraded home without inconvenience.

Phase 3: Design and Material Selection

With your contractor, collaborate on the design and material selection for your renovations. This is a highly creative phase but also one where decisions can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of how different materials can impact your property.

Say, for example, your home needs new siding. When you work with the expert siding contractors from Schmucker Quality Construction, we’ll help you understand how vinyl siding differs from aluminum, wood, and fiber cement. With our expertise, you can choose the material that best suits your home in terms of the durability and longevity it offers and how it fares in your climate.

Phase 4: Construction

The construction phase is where your home literally begins to transform, but it can also be the most disruptive phase for your daily life. Construction usually involves demolition, installation, and finishing work.

The main thing to expect during a home exterior renovation project at this stage is some noise and dust, but there are ways to minimize inconvenience. The following tips can help you comfortably get through this phase:

Prepare your property in advance: Clear outdoor furniture, vehicles, and valuables from construction zones to help the project progress smoothly and avoid damage to your belongings.
Accommodate disruptions: Depending on the scope of the work, plan for alternate arrangements for children or pets who may need to avoid the construction area.
Set boundaries: If you expect extensive roof or siding renovations, consider discussing work hours with your contractor to minimize disturbances during times when you may need quiet.

When taking these practical steps, also keep in mind that the construction phase varies depending on the specific project contractors work on. Set equally realistic yet different expectations for roof renovations, siding upgrades and replacements, and deck or porch additions based on the steps required for their completion.

Roof Renovations

Upgrading or replacing your roof is one of the most impactful exterior renovations. The roofing process typically begins with a comprehensive inspection to determine the condition of your current roof.

It’s at this stage where contractors assess whether you need repairs or a complete replacement. If you decide on a full roof replacement, contractors will remove the old materials before installing a new layer of shingles, tiles, or metal panels.

Replacing or Upgrading Siding

Siding upgrades can transform the look of your home. Plus, they provide improved insulation and protection against environmental elements. Siding projects typically entail the following steps:

Removal of the existing material
Installation of insulation or a weather barrier
Application of new siding in sections, with precise cutting and fitting

Adding a Deck or Porch

For homeowners seeking to expand their living space, adding a deck or porch is a fantastic option. These additions give you dedicated outdoor spaces for relaxation, entertainment, or dining.

Construction will depend on the plans and designs you collaborate on with the contractors. It typically begins with laying the foundation or footings for the structure, followed by framing, decking, and finishing work.

Depending on the complexity of the design, this process can take a few weeks to complete. Working with a professional team ensures this space meets safety standards and is functional and visually appealing.

Phase 5: Wrap-Up and Final Walkthrough

After the completion of major work, the final phase involves cleaning up, which quality contractors handle. When they finish, inspect the work and discuss it with them.

Ask the contractors any questions you have about how to maintain your new roof and siding or how to clean your deck. Schedule follow-ups and future routine inspections as necessary. Keep a record of warranties for materials or services provided.

A home renovation project can be a considerable milestone in your homeownership journey. Careful planning, clear communication, and realistic expectations will keep you well-prepared to bring your vision to life while navigating the challenges along the way. Approach each phase with a thoughtful plan, and lean on the expertise of trusted professionals for the best results.