10 Biggest Reno Faux Pas That Drive Bryan Baeumler Crazy

When it comes to cutting lumber or tile (or anything else) you can save an awful lot of time and money by cutting correctly. It’s important to make sure you dont waste materials and get yourself confused during the process. Always use the appropriate measuring equipment and mark off the piece you don’t want with an X. This simple trick can save you from a host of issues.
See here for the 12 Most Polarizing Design Debates You’ll Have During a Reno.

When completing a renovation that requires new walls or replacing insulation, add a vapour barrier. Think of it as a windbreaker that shields against wind and moisture, which protects your insulation from getting damp and mouldy.

Mudding and taping might seem like an easy part of drywalling, but that’s probably because you’ve watched experts do it. Creating a flat and smooth wall takes practice. I’ve come across many bumpy walls and unsightly surfaces, and it irks me every time. If you’ve never done it before, hire someone who has. Read More: Bryan Baeumler Explains How to Fix a Hole in the Wall.

I’ve seen my fair share of cracked and uneven tiles in bathrooms, kitchens and hallways. This is often due to a poorly built subfloor. When laying tile, ensure your subfloor is built correctly – tiles and mortar can move when weight is applied, and they certainly will if the subfloor is shoddy! If they move, they’ll eventually crack under the pressure, and that means having to replace them.

This is a simple matter of making your life easier. If you’re undergoing a kitchen or bathroom renovation, install flooring before you add new cabinetry. This is so much more convenient, and it will reduce the number of difficult cuts you need to make. See here for Bryan’s Best Tips for Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets.

Nothing looks more unsightly than trim that’s hanging off the walls. It can make a home look unkempt and often makes me worry about what other jobs were completed poorly. The best way to nail down trim is with a pneumatic gun and brad nails. The important thing to remember is that the nails need to penetrate the framing. If they just go into the drywall, they will unattach over time.

When entering any finished room, observe the colour of the walls and how it works with the rest of the decor. You shouldn’t see any streaky paint, which I’ll always notice right away. This is often due to poor technique. There are plenty of painting tips you can borrow from the experts by doing a simple search online. Here are The Best Painting Secrets to Help Sell Your Home Faster.

Many builders install windows that are flush with the ceiling – not only does this look peculiar, but it also reduces the amount of natural light that comes into your basement. Though slightly more expensive, it’s better to drop the window and add a window well. Just make sure it’s an egress window (one that can be opened and used as a means to escape). Check with your local building code to get specific details.

Permits can be a pain, but they are in place for a reason. I often hear people say that a permit isn’t necessary for this or that, but always check. Not having a permit for a deck or any other reno job can become a big issue when it comes time to sell. Going through the permit process also ensures you plan your work carefully and that you ultimately do it safely.

Instructions are there for a reason – always read them! Construction can be a dangerous game, so reading manuals and being safe will help the reno process be what it should be… fun! Mistakes are inevitable, but reducing the number of mishaps you make is possible by doing your research and knowing your abilities. No one is an expert in everything.