OFTEN OVERLOOKED UPGRADES DURING A REMODEL OR RENOVATION

That’s it!  You have decided that it’s now or never! We are going to complete a renovation project! While our intent is coming from the right place, more often or not we can get overwhelmed by the details. To prepare you for when this happens, keep in mind that there are common, and often overlooked upgrades during a remodel or renovation that one should consider to save yourself money and future reno. 

There are numerous things that one should think about when deciding to take the ‘renovation plunge’ that can add up real quick if one does not plan accordingly.  Outside of the standard moving walls, new appliances and updated decor we often begin these projects is to reconfigure an awkward or non-functional layout, address structural issues or even to simply update the space and bring into this decade while injecting our style and personality.  In all cases, most tend to overlook costs associated to upgrade the electrical wiring that is hidden behind our walls, our main electrical panels and circuit breakers, fixtures and outlets and the potential to be more energy efficient.

If your home was not built within the last 10-15 yrs it is possible that your electrical system, outlets, fixtures and appliances may already be dated a ready for an overhaul before they cause problems.  While several electrical wiring problems are not deemed unsafe and they may be perceived to be more of an annoyance, all of these issues should be considered prime contenders to be included in your renovation project. 

If you are considering upgrading your kitchen appliances it is important for one to understand that all these great new convection microwave and ovens have the tendency to put more load on your circuit breakers.  Talking to an electrician to confirm your main electrical panel, circuit breakers and electrical wiring can handle these appliances with ease and ensure your electrical system is robust enough to support your current and future electrical needs. ( See 3 REASONS WHY YOU ARE TRIPPING YOUR BREAKERS  )

Something else to tackle while you are opening walls and ceilings during your renovation are electrical upgrades that may need to be done such as upgrading any aluminum wiring present in the home or area of the project for safety and efficiency ( see ALUMINUM WIRING CONCERNS IN OLDER HOMES for warning signs  ).  

With a ton of styles, finishes and lighting effects available this a great way to update and modernize your space with little financial commitment.  One thing to also consider when making this change are also updating the switches to the popular Decora style.   The switches are available in different colors and can be found with dimmers and Bluetooth features for those of us who forget to turn the lights off when we leave the room.   'Ahem ..... yes ...you know you are'. 

Your current needs and future requirements are another item to assess.  Do you have enough outlets for your current usage?  Are the outlets you do have suffer from a the common ailment where items plugged in - fall out?  If so this is an indication that they are worn out and should also be replaced for safety reasons and before it turns into something more serious.  Speaking to the bathroom and kitchen outlets, do you have the proper GFCI's, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, installed for usage around water areas? 

Outdated panels and circuit breakers is also an area where some of your renovation budget may need to be allocated to increase the capacity of your electrical system.  If you are wiring or re-wiring your garage you will need to ensure that there is enough room within your current main panel to handle the additional load as well.  

All in all, a renovation can be more costly if one does not do their due diligence prior to starting the project as the little things can add up rather quickly.  It is always a great idea to speak to a qualified and certified electrical company to ensure your budget stays on track while also covering all your bases.  

Wireworks Electrical Services Ltd. can put your mind at ease and provide a transparent electrical plan for your next project.   For more information on our services please feel free to reach us at 780-289-1660, by email at ray@wireworksltd.com or click here to secure a free estimate.