Deciding to engage in a DIY home renovation is like getting married – no one enters the marriage expecting it to fail, but sometimes they do. People choose to tackle DIY renovations for various reasons ranging from potential financial savings to the thrill of building. Regardless of why you started, if you are dealing with the fallout of a renovation failure, it’s time to put the hammer down. It’s important to know that you are not the only person who has experienced this renovation failure. IT HAS HAPPENED TO OTHERS BEFORE YOU AND IT WILL HAPPEN TO OTHERS AFTER YOU. Unfortunately, we don’t come equipped with a little Joanna and Chip Gaines inside of our brains and with that said, a renovation failure is just one of the unfortunate sides of DIY projects. It happens, yo. Now, what to do about it?
Let it go… not for good, but for now
In the beginning, you were most likely excited and confident that you could complete this reno on your own. There were tons of youtube videos available and an endless sea of articles. Your excitement was most likely high. And then shit hit the fan … maybe even literally. It is devastating to have a project that you’ve poured money, energy, and time into fail. I get it. I really do.
At this point I need you to realize that Elsa of Arendelle had it right: let it go – for now at least. Take a break from the project so that you can weigh your options clearly. You’re most likely going to be frustrated and anxious to fix the issue. Taking a breather might seem like the last thing you want to do, but taking a moment will really allow you time to regroup and proceed logically. And logic is what we need my friend.
Identify the contributing factors: What can cause a renovation failure?
There are generally a few reasons that cause renos to fail: lack of skill set, misjudgments with the budget, underestimating the time it takes to complete a specific project, prioritizing form over function (not considering the operational side of the project), or not having the right tools or resources for the job.
Once you’ve identified the factors that have contributed to your renovation failure, begin to brainstorm a list of what might need to happen to rectify the issue. Be cautious with this brainstorming business because you don’t want to engage in yet another project that could make things worse. Failures cost money and a renovation failure can cost big money. The most likely solution, in this case, is that you need to humble yourself and ask for help.
Somebody throw me a lifesaver!
Asking for help can be challenging, especially when you’ve sought out to complete this project on your own and it didn’t pan out as expected. Unless you have an endless bank account and the time and patience to experiment, it’s probably best to seek out a helping hand. Hiring a contractor might not be in your budget, but what about your church member, Chuck the carpenter? Or maybe your in-laws who know a thing or two about renovating properties? Consider the circles that you are in and find someone who is willing to lend a hand.
Your absolute best bet is most likely to hire an experienced, trusted, AND licensed contractor to see the job through. You’ll probably have to shop around for an outstanding contractor, but believe me when I say it’s worth the search! Always ask for references and speak to their previous clientele! An exceptional contractor can turn your renovation failure around in no time. While you’d be shelling out some money for their services, remember that it’s a long-term investment.
I know that this can be a disheartening time. With patience and thoughtful decisions, it can all pan out. Wishing you loads of luck!
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