by Robert Wright

How can we save money? It’s a common question asked on many projects.

My clients and I prefer to start with the total wish list of what we would like to be completed in the project before anything else. One reason is that we don’t want a possible future phase of work to disturb already completed work. Also, sometimes we are all surprised by what can be included in the budget. The usual result of the wish list exercise is that the project is over budget and this is all right. The next question to ask is, “Now what do we do?”

The next step is to determine the priorities for the various items of the project wish list. This can mean that less important items may be trimmed from the project.

Another possibility is to phase the anticipated project over time. What I have done with past clients is to set up a multi-year plan to renovate various parts of their home. For example: we first completed the bathroom, then the windows, and then some HVAC work.

Another step is to look at the material selections. Can we substitute less expensive materials from the wish list materials? These could include: PVC windows for wood aluminium clad windows; laminate counter tops for stone; and thermofoil cabinet doors for solid wood cabinet doors.

Maybe we can reuse existing items; though we have to be careful. Some items can look tired against the new i.e. used stainless steel sinks in the new cabinets. However, patching in old hardwood flooring, brick, or siding can reduce costs and dump fees. Remember, unless there is a major structural issue, the greatest cost items are in the things you touch and see, and not in the structure.

The selection of “cheap” materials is not usually a good idea. They are cheap for a reason – usually they are of poor quality. The low cost is forgotten long after the poor quality is evident! Quite often we can take some less expensive materials and create a more expensive look.

Another step is to look at the project from another angle. Can a revision of ideas and design help? Can the project requirements be met another way?

I had a client who believed that the only way to solve the kitchen space issues was to create a small addition. Unfortunately, this addition portion required a larger budget than the client was prepared for. With a little head scratch, we were able to create the large kitchen with eating area, a new walk-in pantry, and relocate the powder room within the existing structure and the budget.

As you can see, it can be a bit of a process to have the budget and project meet. It may take a bit more thought and research than first expected, however, it will be well worth the effort at the end of the project.

In the mid 1990’s, Rob joined and took over Citadel Renovations in Ottawa. Since that time, Rob has helped many homeowners improve their homes. Rob has been active in the Greater Ottawa Home Builders Association for many years and has been the Renovation Council Chair in the past. Recently, Rob has presented seminars at the local home shows on various renovations subjects. He is a featured contractor expert for the Home Renovation Guide’s “Ask the Expert” section. You can visit his company website CitadelRenovations.com for more information.