7 Renovations to Consider To Prep For Your Growing Family

Growing your family is an exciting time that changes all parts of your life — including your home. If your house accommodates fewer family members than you’ll soon have, there are several adjustments you can make. Here are seven renovations to consider as your family grows to keep everyone safe and happy.

1.   Bathroom

When your home has more people, you can benefit from more bathrooms. Everyone needs to use them and fighting for space is often the cause of stressful mornings. Having separate bathrooms for kids and adults increases the likelihood that everyone can enter when necessary.

You can add a bathroom almost anywhere with access to plumbing and electricity. Adding a half-bath could be a great choice if you have a spare closet. Many people put a bathroom in their laundry room since there’s easy water access and some already have sinks.

Due to the potential risks, hiring a licensed contractor is best if you need rewiring or significant plumbing changes. Depending on the size of your bathroom, you can section off the toilet, sink and bathtub to allow multiple people to use the space simultaneously.

2.   ADU

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a separate unit on your property you can use for many things. Adding or renovating an ADU can benefit your growing family in many ways.

When you have a new baby, family members may offer to come and help out — especially if you have other kids. This unit gives you and your guest space, serving as a separate home when someone needs it.

As your kids grow up, they might want a space to hang out with their friends and have sleepovers. ADUs help them feel independent while still being under your watch. For teenagers, these units are perfect for introducing what it’s like to live in their own place. It allows them to learn about and try new life skills while you’re around to help.

3.   Playroom

If you’re expecting a baby, it’s time to think about where they’ll play as they grow. A playroom is a hub for young kids to move around and express their creativity. You can quickly renovate almost any room to be a playroom.

Remove potential dangers like window blinds with cords, and consider covering hardwood or cement floors with a softer material like linoleum or carpeting. You can install shelves to store toys and art supplies. A table allows them to create, while an open floor space will enable them to play with their toys however they choose.

If you enjoy colorful walls, a playroom is the perfect place to implement them. You could even use magnetic or chalk paint that increases the number of play surfaces.

4.   Yard

If you have a lot of private yard space, you can let your children run and play without as much worry as a public park or playground can cause. However, if having little ones is new to you, there are some things to remember.

Fences are a great way to keep your kids, other people and animals out of your yard. You can choose a grid fence that allows you to see around the perimeter or a privacy fence that limits someone’s ability to see in your yard. You should also add security fencing around pools, hot tubs or anywhere that could be life-threatening to your child if they approach it alone.

Evaluate your landscaping. While you should always watch young children when they play inside, accidents happen. Try to remove any poison oak or ivy from the area. Also, consider eliminating any bushes that grow berries toxic to humans.

5.   Home Office

A home office could be suitable if you work from home, or want a quiet place to pay bills and engage with your hobbies. You can convert a spare bedroom or walk-in closet into an office space. If you have a finished basement, you can add part of it to create a private room. The size of your home office depends on what you’ll do.

Good lighting is ideal for a personal workspace. If you don’t have windows, consider installing an intuitive lighting system to help you switch from alert and productive to calm and relaxed.

6.   Windows

You might not think about your windows, but they can greatly affect your mental health. Natural light is excellent for stress management — a valuable tool when adding more kids to your ranks.

Consider adding windows to naturally dark spaces to give your home more reading and playing locations that don’t waste electricity. Expand windows that show your backyard to get a better view of what all your young ones are doing while outside.

If you transform a room into your child’s bedroom, securing the windows can give you peace of mind. It can keep them from opening one or a sensor can alert you when they do. This update is especially useful if you have little ones on the higher stories of your house and the damage from going out the window is worse.

7.   Kitchen

Growing your family is an excellent excuse to renovate your kitchen. Kids will need access to things like cups, plates and napkins. However, you’ll want them to avoid the stovetop, cleaning products and knives.

If you have a small kitchen, consider expanding by opening up your floor plan. Create sufficient space between your entryway and your range. Get a refrigerator with a front water dispenser children can easily access. Install new shelves up high so kids can reach them and cover sharp edges.

Include a pull-out step stool to help your children reach the sink. Additionally, installing a sink with an automatic sensor could save you water. You could even make a specific area to store a toddler tower so your little one can help you prepare food.

Growing Your Home With Your Family

A happy household means having what each person needs to thrive — including any new arrivals. By renovating to meet your family’s needs, you can create a positive environment for your kids to learn and grow.

The Most Important Home Renovations You’ll Make On Your Home

There are dozens of unique renovations and remodeling projects for homeowners to choose from, but not all are smart investments. Only a handful of renovations consistently increase a home’s property value and give the owners a total return on their investment. Here are seven of the most important renovations you can make on your home.

1.  Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel is arguably the best home renovation you can make. However, it’s essential to make a key distinction between minor renovations and upscale renovations.

As a general rule, a minor remodel is going to add more value to your home than a major upscale remodel. Making practical adjustments is more cost-effective than overhauling the kitchen’s entire design.

According to data from the 2022 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, the average minor kitchen remodel earned a 71.2% return on investment and boosted the home’s resale value by more than $20,000. Renovations like these are great places to start:

• Increase countertop space
• Replace the kitchen doors and windows
• Get new cabinets
• Re-tile the flooring
• Install a skylight for more natural lighting
• Put in a ceiling fan for better ventilation

Try to avoid non-essential luxury additions when renovating your kitchen. Fancy countertop materials, colorful backsplashes, and other bells and whistles won’t bring much value to your kitchen. This room is all about functionality.

2.  Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom remodels are important home renovations, but they differ slightly from kitchen remodeling projects. Minor renovations and upscale additions have almost identical average ROIs at 51.8% and 51.5%, according to the 2022 Cost vs. Value report. Although their costs can widely differ, they will give you similar returns.

Since major and minor renovations are equally effective, you have many renovation options. These are some of the most popular bathroom additions:

• Heated tile floors
• Bidet toilet attachments
• Multi-function shower heads
• LED vanity mirror
• Vanities with maximum countertop space
• Low-temperature lighting
• Floating shelves
• Wall art prints

People want to relax and unwind in their bathrooms, which means they love having luxury designs and accessories that enhance their hygiene habits. So, along with updating all the basic fixtures, don’t be afraid to adopt a modern industrial design to make your bathroom look more high-end.

3.  Garage Door Replacement

A garage door replacement doesn’t seem like a massive home renovation, but it has the greatest ROI out of any remodeling project at more than 93%. Considering it only costs an average of $1,188 to replace your garage door, it should be one of the first renovations on your to-do list. There are several big reasons why this project is so valuable for homeowners:

• Boosts curb appeal
• Improves home security
• Blocks outside noise
• Makes heating and cooling more efficient

Although a garage door replacement isn’t as flashy as the other projects on this list, it’s so cost-effective that it belongs in the upper echelon of home renovations. It’s a simple project, but it can significantly improve your home’s appearance and living conditions.

4.  Accessory Dwelling Units

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are unique home renovations. Not only can they increase your home’s value, but they can also give you a passive income stream. Some people use them as rental spaces, while others use them to provide more privacy to family members. In many cases, homes with an ADU sell for up to 30% more than comparable homes without an ADU.

ADUs are incredibly versatile. You have many design options to choose from:

• Detached ADU: standalone unit in the home’s backyard or driveway
• Attached ADU: unit attached to the primary residence
• Above garage ADU: unit built above the garage, often as an extra sleeping area for relatives.
• Garage conversion ADU: unit converted from a traditional garage to a new bedroom, bathroom or workspace
• Basement conversion ADU: underground unit attached to the primary residence through a new separate entrance
• Attic conversion ADU: unit converted from an attic to a new living space, accessible through a private outdoor stair

Choosing the right ADU for your home’s layout is the key to getting a good ROI.  Detached ADUs are the most popular, but they’re also the most expensive to build. A conversion ADU might be in your best interest if you have a dusty old attic or unfinished basement.

5.  Energy-Efficient Appliances

You can never go wrong by renovating your house with new energy-efficient appliances. A few simple additions here and there can significantly increase your property value by increasing energy efficiency, lowering utility costs and improving the home’s quality of life. The following appliances with EnergyStar certifications have the most significant savings potential:

• Refrigerators: $200 during the product’s life span
• Dishwashers: $130 yearly on water costs
• Dehumidifiers: 30% more savings than non-EnergyStar models
• Washing machines: $370 during the product’s life span
• Dryers: $20 on monthly electricity bills

Energy efficiency in residential and commercial spaces is the most effective strategy for combating climate change. Humans can’t solve this problem overnight, but they can slowly address it by making incremental improvements to their everyday lives. Outfitting your house with energy-efficient appliances is a great place to start.

6.  HVAC System Upgrade

Upgrading your HVAC system is another excellent way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and livability. The Department of Energy recommends an HVAC system replacement every 10–15 years, depending on the system’s condition. You should get an upgrade if your current system is showing these signs of deterioration:

• Too much noise
• Excessive dust in the house
• Inconsistent temperatures from room to room
• Dry air in the winter and humidity in the summer
• Rising energy bills

Like the other aforementioned appliances, HVAC systems with EnergyStar certifications bring the most value. They use 8% less energy than conventional HVAC models, making your home more comfortable, affordable and sustainable at the same time.

7.  Outdoor Hangout Areas

An outdoor hangout area would make a welcome addition to your home. The most popular and cost-effective outdoor renovation is a wooden deck, boasting a 64.8% ROI, according to the 2020 Cost vs. Value Report. Here are some other outdoor additions you should consider:

• Patio, veranda or pergola
• Pool or hot tub
• Exercise area
• Basketball court
• Tennis court
• Nature path

However, an outdoor renovation can also backfire if it’s not appropriate for the climate. For example, a swimming pool won’t bring much value to a house in Alaska, but it’s a fantastic addition to a Florida house. Remember to consider your local environment when deciding which outdoor space to add.

Take These Renovations Seriously

Most home renovations are fun side projects people can do if they have a few thousand dollars to spend. However, these renovations are not side projects. They can significantly increase your home’s value and make your property the most coveted lot in the neighborhood. If you want to make one of these renovations, you must take them seriously.

How to Do a Kitchen Remodel on a Budget

You do not have to ruin your finances just for a single kitchen remodel. If you are curious about how to do a kitchen remodel on a budget, keep reading and find out!

Setting a realistic budget for your kitchen remodel

Setting a realistic budget is the crucial first step of how to do a kitchen remodel on a budget. By determining your financial boundaries from the start, you can make informed decisions and avoid overspending. Remember, things like going for environmentally friendly kitchen renovations always come second to a solid budget. Start by assessing your finances and setting a comfortable spending limit. Consider the scope of the project, including materials, appliances, and labor costs. Research prices, compare options, and prioritize essential upgrades. By being mindful of your budget, you can allocate funds wisely and focus on cost-effective solutions. Remember, a well-planned budget allows flexibility and ensures your kitchen remodel stays on track without breaking the bank.

 A solid budget itself is always step one when trying to do a kitchen remodel on a budget.

Planning and researching how to do a kitchen remodel on a budget

Planning and research are vital when trying to do a kitchen remodel on a budget. Take the time to create a detailed remodeling plan, considering layout changes, appliances, and materials. Thorough planning helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures a smooth process. Research different products, prices, and suppliers to find the best deals and quality. By comparing options, you can make informed decisions and save money. Also, don’t forget to properly pack up your appliances before the remodel begins in earnest. This will protect them from damage and make the transition smoother. When it comes to planning and research, attention to detail is key. Investing time in this phase can lay a solid foundation for a budget-friendly and efficient kitchen remodel.

 You’ll have to learn how to best squeeze down on your spending.

Repurposing and refurbishing what you can for your remodel

When working on a kitchen remodel, don’t overlook the cost-saving potential of repurposing and refurbishing existing elements. Instead of immediately replacing cabinets, countertops, and appliances, consider refurbishing them to save money. Refinishing cabinets, for example, can give them a fresh new look without the hefty price tag. Repairing or resurfacing countertops can also bring new life to the space. However, it’s necessary to carefully balance repairing and replacing what you can. Evaluate the condition and functionality of each element and make informed decisions. Sometimes, it’s more cost-effective to replace certain items if they are outdated or beyond repair. By strategically repurposing and refurbishing, you can breathe new life into your kitchen while staying within your budget.

DIY vs. professional assistance for your remodel

When it comes to a kitchen remodel, you may find yourself torn between doing it yourself and hiring professionals. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of either approach to kitchen renovation. DIY projects can save money, especially if you have the necessary skills and experience. However, complex tasks like electrical or plumbing work should be left to professionals to ensure safety and compliance. Hiring experts also guarantees a higher level of craftsmanship and access to specialized knowledge. They can navigate challenges efficiently and complete the project in a timely manner. Consider your comfort level, time availability, and the complexity of the remodel. While DIY can be rewarding, professional help ensures a smoother and more polished outcome, particularly for intricate aspects of the kitchen remodel. Ultimately, make an informed decision based on your skills, resources, and desired results.

Don’t be afraid to DIY the parts you know you can do.

Saving on materials and finishes for your kitchen remodel

When it comes to saving on materials and finishes for your kitchen remodel, there are several strategies to consider. Start by researching and comparing prices from different suppliers to secure the best deals. Look out for sales and discounts, as timing your purchases strategically can result in significant savings. Additionally, consider alternative options such as second-hand or discounted materials, which can be found at salvage yards or online marketplaces. Don’t compromise on quality, but be open to cost-effective alternatives that meet your standards. Another approach is to focus on key areas where quality is crucial, such as countertops or appliances, while opting for more affordable options for items like cabinet hardware or light fixtures. You can achieve a stunning kitchen remodel while staying within your budget by being resourceful and savvy in your material and finish choices.

Pulling off efficient project management

Efficient project management is essential for an attempt to do a kitchen remodel on a budget successfully. Start by creating a detailed timeline and schedule to keep the project on track. Clearly communicate with contractors and subcontractors, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding expectations and deadlines. Regularly assess the progress and address any potential issues promptly to prevent delays. Stay organized by keeping track of important documents, invoices, and receipts. This will help you stay within your budget and avoid any unnecessary expenses. Effective communication and collaboration with the professionals involved will ensure that the project runs smoothly and efficiently. By managing the project effectively, you can minimize disruptions, maintain a clear overview, and ultimately achieve the kitchen of your dreams within your desired timeframe.

Finishing touches on a careful budget

When it comes to adding the finishing touches to your kitchen remodel on a budget, plenty of affordable options are available. Focus on impactful yet cost-effective elements such as lighting fixtures, paint, and accessories. Upgrading outdated light fixtures can instantly transform the ambiance of the space without breaking the bank. A fresh coat of paint on the walls or cabinets can breathe new life into the kitchen, too. Don’t underestimate the power of well-chosen accessories like curtains, rugs, or decorative items to add personality and style. Look for more budget-friendly options at thrift stores or even online marketplaces. Remember to prioritize functionality over purely aesthetic upgrades. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can easily do a kitchen remodel on a budget.

Learning about how to do a kitchen remodel on a budget

We’ve already covered everything you need to know in order to properly approach the subject of how to do a kitchen remodel on a budget. You can save money without sacrificing quality by setting a realistic budget, conducting thorough research, and considering repurposing and refurbishing options. Whether you choose to tackle the project yourself or hire professionals, weighing the pros and cons is essential. Look for opportunities to save on materials and finishes, compare prices, and explore alternative options. Efficient project management ensures a smooth process and helps avoid unnecessary expenses. Finally, when it comes to finishing touches, focus on impactful yet budget-friendly elements that enhance both functionality and style. With these strategies in mind, you can achieve a remarkable kitchen remodel at negligible expense.

Turning Your Bathroom into a Personal Spa: Best Luxury Upgrades for Your Bathroom

When it comes to luxury upgrades for bathrooms, the possibilities are endless. With a focus on comfort, convenience, and style, choosing the right materials and enhancements can transform an ordinary bathroom into a personal oasis. Heated floors and towel bars provide warmth and relaxation, while steam showers and luxurious tubs make you feel like you’re in a five-star hotel. Keep reading to learn all about how to turn your bathroom into a personal spa.

Heated Floors and Towel Bars

Enhance your bathroom’s comfort and warmth with heated tile flooring. Radiant-heat systems can be installed under various floor materials for added luxury during colder months. Several materials can be used for heated floors, including ceramic or porcelain tiles, natural stone like marble or granite, and laminate options specifically designed for heated floors.

Additionally, towel-warming racks keep towels warm and dry and add a touch of elegance to the room. They maintain a cozy temperature for your towels, ensuring they’re always ready when you need them. Having racks instead of leaving towels on the counter also helps keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free. Plus, they promote quicker drying time, reducing dampness in the room and preventing mildew growth on towels.

Luxury Lighting Solutions

Every room has lighting needs that need to be addressed to make the most of the space, and the bathroom is no different. Incorporating natural light adds brightness while creating an illusion of spaciousness. Natural light not only enhances the luxurious feel but also improves energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Skylights can help achieve this effect.

If you want to go for artificial lighting, you can focus on choosing luxury fixtures. How about chandeliers or pendant lights? You’ll also want to pay attention to where you spend the most time – if you spend a lot of time in the bath, make sure there’s some pleasant ambient lighting near it.

Steam Showers for Health and Relaxation

Incorporate steam showers in your bathroom upgrade to enjoy numerous health benefits like the potential for improved cardiovascular health, stress relief, reduced congestion, and better skin health. You can also take one after a workout to help alleviate muscle pain and joint stiffness.

Steam showers generally work by you activating a steam generator; it fills up with cold water, then heats the water until it can be sent out as steam. Vapor-tight glass doors that keep the steam contained within the shower enclosure. Steam showers are a great way to relax and improve your health, so it’s worth investing in the best components for an effective installation.

Luxurious Tubs and Smart Toilets

Upgrade your bathroom with a touch of luxury by installing Japanese soaking tubs or roomy whirlpool tubs. These stylish options not only elevate the aesthetics but also offer therapeutic benefits for ultimate relaxation. Compare features like depth, size, and material to find the perfect fit for your space. While Japanese soaking tubs focus on deep immersion in hot water, whirlpool tubs provide massaging jets for a spa-like experience.

And if you’re looking for a way to save money on your water bills while bringing some style to an often overlooked part of the bathroom, consider adding a smart toilet. They range in price and features, but most can help with sanitization, comfort, and reduce the amount of water used while flushing.

Seating Options and Other Shower Upgrades

Transform your bathroom into a personal spa by incorporating seating options like a bench. These can be built directly into the shower, or they can “float” on the wall to have some storage space underneath. You can save even more room by investing in folding seats.

To further elevate the luxurious feel of your shower, consider upgrading to dual shower heads paired with handheld sprays. This gives you variety in water pressure and spray patterns and the ability to set the shower heads to different temperatures.

Enjoy Time in Your Bathroom Spa

Investing in luxury upgrades for your bathroom can significantly increase the value of your home while providing you with a relaxing and comfortable space. From heated floors to steam showers, various options are available to elevate your bathroom experience. Whether you’re renovating the whole bathroom or just picking a few pieces to take it to the next level, the investment will give you a luxurious retreat you’ll never want to leave.

Repair or Replace? Your Guide for Your Home

It only takes a few years for signs of wear and tear to appear in a home, so whether you live in an older model or a new build, you’ll eventually have damage you need to deal with. The crucial question is whether you should repair or replace each item. Consider what will save you money and time in the long run. You may also want to consider the environmental implications of your decision and the effect a change will have on your home’s safety.

Use this guide to walk you through the decision-making process for common household problems. As you’ll quickly see, the specifics of your situation will typically direct your best course of action.

1. HVAC System

You rely on your HVAC system to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. You risk health problems like overheating and hypothermia when it breaks down, so maintaining your system is crucial. An HVAC that struggles to start, can’t keep a consistent temperature or shuts down when switching from hot to cold air is crying out for help.

When to Repair

Thankfully, most repairs are relatively simple. Many new homeowners don’t realize they need to change the filter on their HVAC regularly. You should switch the filter out every few months or even more frequently if you have pets who shed. Your vents may also get clogged with bee nests or spider webs — even these small acts of nature can impact your system’s effectiveness.

Beyond these quick fixes, you’ll eventually run into parts wearing down. Since a new HVAC costs an average of $8,000 and repairs cost a few hundred, it makes sense to maintain your current system as long as possible.

When to Replace

The typical life span of an HVAC system is 15 to 35 years, depending on the original quality and how well you maintain it. If it’s made it past that mark and is causing frequent problems and stacking up costly repairs, it’s probably time to go ahead and replace it. You should also keep safety in mind and remove it immediately if it smokes or overheats.

2. Roof

A properly functioning roof keeps your home safe from water damage and protects you and your possessions from the elements. It’s also essential to keeping your heating and cooling from escaping, hiking up your energy bill. When your roof or gutters are damaged, you’ll notice a significant impact on the efficiency of your home and will probably incur costly water damage as well.

When to Repair

Like your HVAC system, the roof and gutters are expensive replacements you should avoid when possible. You can easily fix a few shingles, a rusted vent or clogged gutters. Call a professional or check the roof out yourself a couple of times a year to catch these minor problems before they escalate.

When to Replace

Despite their typical longevity, roofs aren’t designed to last forever. For example, asphalt shingle has a 12.5-year life span on average. Other options, like steel roofs, hold out longer but will still need replacing eventually. If you have extensive leaks coming through your attic or the roof is visibly buckling or dipping, it’s probably time to replace the whole thing.

3. Hot Water Heater

Most of us take our hot water for granted, turning on the tap whenever we want and feeling put out while we wait for it to warm up. However, neglecting your water heater could result in expensive damages and disruption to your routine.

When to Repair

Cloudy water, an increasing utility bill, leaks, strange noises and a lack of warm water are signs you should get your machine serviced. Many parts, like the heating element, are relatively simple and cheap to fix or replace.

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your water heater in good shape for as long as possible. You should flush the tank and test the pressure valve once a year. You can also change out the anode rod, which will slow down the degradation of your tank over time.

When to Replace

Water heaters have a typical life span between 8 and 12 years. If you’re in the latter half of that timeline and it needs frequent repairs, it may be time to replace the system. A new model will be easier to maintain and improve your energy efficiency.

4. Flooring

Flooring is so much more than the surface you walk on. It can change the whole aesthetic of your home and is a representation of you. Dingy carpeting and water-stained hardwoods are unsightly and will bring down the value of your property. Damaged floors can also be a safety issue, causing trips and falls.

When to Repair

Small affected areas of carpeting with stains or rips are fairly easy to repair. You can cut out the section and replace it with the same type if available. Hardwoods are also straightforward to repair. Most stains and rings are simple to remove with everyday household items like a magic eraser or even mayonnaise, but more extensive damage will require sanding and resurfacing.

When to Replace

Hardwood floors are made to last and are rarely worth replacing — sanding and refinishing can make them look good as new. Carpeting is another matter. No matter how well you treat and clean it, time and use will wear it away. Go ahead and replace extensively soiled and worn-down carpets. You can lay down fresh carpeting or opt for a different flooring material like hardwood or vinyl plank.

5. Large Appliances

Machines like the dishwasher, stove, refrigerator, washing machine and dryer make life much easier. They drastically cut down on time spent on household chores — at least when they’re working properly.

When to Repair

Replacing machinery when it malfunctions is hard on our wallets and the environment. However, most households skip repair and upgrade to the newest technology despite the cost. Manufacturers make things worse by making parts hard to find and purchase. Supply chain shortages are changing things for the better, making companies refocus efforts on repairable machines rather than their short-lived offerings.

Put simply — it may be well worth the time to call a maintenance specialist to assess your appliances before giving up on them.

When to Replace

Large appliances are expensive but not the most costly item in your home. After getting your machine inspected by a professional, you’ll want to weigh the cost of repair vs. replacement. If your appliance is breaking down frequently and the expenses are reaching the point where you could just buy a new machine, it’s probably time. You can order something more energy efficient that will hopefully last you even longer than your old model.

6. Cabinetry

Many homeowners long to remodel their kitchens. It’s the heart of the home and also one of the best ways to add value. The primary focus typically lands on changing out the cabinets and countertops. However, it may not always be in your best interest to replace the old cabinets entirely.

When to Repair

As long as the old cabinets are structurally sound, you should opt to repair them. Minor upgrades like changing out the hardware and adding a coat of paint can completely change the look and feel of the space without breaking your budget. Even sticky drawers and off-kilter doors are relatively simple fixes any DIYer can tackle on their own.

When to Replace

Cabinets with water damage or in extensive disrepair are safer to rip out and replace. Your best bet is to use complete replacement as a last resort.

No One-Size-Fits-All Answer

As you’ve likely realized, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for damage in your home. You’ll need to assess the problem and consider the cost in time, money, environmental impact and effect on your home’s safety before determining which way to move forward. These suggestions are merely a jumping-off point to help you make the appropriate decision for your unique situation.