This article written by Larry Abbott was printed in the Sunday, July 6, 2025 edition of the Houston Chronicle.
Remodeling your home is an exciting opportunity to upgrade your space and improve how it functions for your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation, bathroom update, or whole home transformation, proper preparation is key to a smooth process—and that starts with tackling needed repairs first.
Why Pre-Remodel Repairs Matter
Before any new cabinets are installed or walls are knocked down, it’s important to ensure your home is in solid condition. Ignoring underlying issues can lead to costly problems down the road, even after a remodel is complete. Addressing repairs ahead of time helps create a stable foundation for the work to come.
Common issues like water damage, structural weaknesses, electrical hazards, or plumbing problems should be identified and fixed prior to starting any cosmetic upgrades. Not only will this prevent interruptions during the remodel, but it also protects your investment.
Assess Your Home Thoroughly
Walk through your home with a critical eye, or better yet, have a professional inspection done. Look for signs of:
- Leaks or moisture issues in ceilings, walls, or around windows
- Cracks in the foundation or drywall
- Aging electrical systems or outdated fuse boxes
- Faulty plumbing, especially in bathrooms and kitchens
- Pest damage or signs of mold
These may not seem as exciting as picking out countertops, but they’re essential to making sure your remodel is built on a safe, reliable structure.
Coordinate with Your Contractor
If you’ve already chosen a remodeling company, involve them early in the repair assessment process. Experienced remodelers can identify red flags and advise on whether certain issues need to be addressed before construction begins. In many cases, your contractor can handle both the repairs and the remodel itself, making it a seamless experience.
Budget for Repairs
It’s wise to set aside part of your remodeling budget for unexpected repairs, especially in older homes., As we’ve all seen firsthand on home improvement TV shows, you never know what’s hiding behind a wall until work begins. It is important to have a financial cushion to help you handle surprises without derailing the project.
Prepare Your Space
Once repairs are complete and plans are finalized, get your home ready by decluttering, moving furniture, and setting up temporary spaces if parts of your home will be unusable. Good preparation goes a long way in minimizing stress during the remodel.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to handle necessary repairs before remodeling isn’t just smart, it’s essential. A beautiful remodel should be more than skin deep; it should be built on a foundation that’s safe, secure, and ready for the future. With the right preparation, you’ll enjoy your newly updated home for years to come.