There’s no doubt home improvement shows have become increasingly popular in the last decade, with new shows popping up like there’s no tomorrow. We love to get ideas for our own remodels when it comes to use of space or trending decor.
Perhaps that’s why it’s so easy to be lured into trying your hand on a kitchen or bathroom remodel. However, there’s more than meets the eye when tackling such an arduous endeavor. DIY home construction featured on TV is not what it’s panned out to be.
If you’re sincerely thinking about a remodel or renovation, why not let The Construction Group handle your home improvement tasks? We are professionals in the industry – 30 plus years to be exact! Take a minute to glance at our before and after gallery. We offer affordable rates, work of the highest caliber, and fast, reliable service. Not to mention free estimates!
If you’re still convinced DIY home construction is the answer, at least know the risks! It’s not like what you’ve seen on TV.
1. Costs Are Skewed
Most home improvement shows do not show the “fine print” when showcasing clients and their projects. For example, they do not always use superior materials – they have to cut the costs down. So why not just purchase mediocre building materials?
When quality materials are used, the producers likely have a major hookup. Have you ever heard the hosts mention the material quality they’re choosing? Sponsors and partners provide heavily discounted labor and materials most of the time.
Kitchens are one of the most expensive renovation projects that exist, and if you’re replacing flooring, cabinets, appliances and countertops, it’s quite impossible to fit it under $10k. And that’s not really counting labor either.
So don’t believe what you hear: In a normal non-reality world, the cost is much higher – significantly higher if it’s a larger kitchen with an island.
Jobs Take Time
No matter what room you’re renovating, it is always going to take time. Take into account products that are back-ordered, supply chain issues, including shipping time and shortage of reliable labor – all of this will account for more days and weeks than shown on the screen.
TV production crews show fast forward footage, making it appear the remodeling takes less time than it actually does.
DIYers Are Not Controlling the Job
You might see a couple or other family members apparently taking that sledgehammer and performing demolition work or painting. It’s not to say they’re not doing it, but it’s mostly in short spurts for the camera.
In other words, a lot of editing! There’s a whole professional crew of 5-10 on the sidelines that help expedite the process. If you’re not trained in electrical, plumbing, or tile work, do not attempt to do it yourself. It might lead to subpar workmanship or injury.
If you’re really destined to do it yourself, get some training first from an expert and set aside a good amount of time to do the project. Doing bits and pieces whenever there’s free time will not cut it, and can lead to some deep regret and frustration.
The “Reveal” Furniture Is Not Included
Whichever reality home renovating show is at the top of your saved library list, you’ve probably noticed the great furniture and decor being staged during the last stage before the reveal to the clients. How lucky those homeowners must be right? Not.
One insider revealed that the decor and other goods are chosen from local shops or other retail sponsors and not part of the client's initial budget. Hence, each item is cataloged in a binder for the homeowner should they decide to purchase them after the reveal.
There Is Not Always a Happily Ever After
Among the “oh my goodness” and “oohs and ahhs” afterwards, it could be short-lived. Keep in mind that a lot of the furniture and decor could be stripped at the end – not to mention there may have been times certain jobs were done haphazardly leaving the homeowner to repair these on their own.
How about the popular show Extreme Home Makeover? Do those deserving families actually have enough money for the taxes, utilities or other costly maintenance? Perhaps, but not always – leading the homeowner to sell or face foreclosure.
You Can Rely on the “Real” Reality With The Construction Group
There is one major takeaway from all this. The fabulous renovations we see on TV are professionally edited, but in real life it is possible for you to get the results you want without worry or unpleasant surprises. Whether you’re seeking exterior remodeling to include windows, or interior remodeling, contact the reliable team at The Construction Group.
Our training is unsurpassed anywhere in the Twin Cities area. We only use high-quality materials and supplies, to ensure a finished product that will perform well over time. Click here for a free estimate on your project or call us today!