Over the course of 2022, construction materials in Singapore became more expensive (an average increase of six to eight per cent on an annual basis). That trend is expected to continue in 2023, making renovations more expensive than they used to be.
If you need to upgrade your home right now, you’re probably going through the calculations a thousand times. Could you possibly reduce some expenditures without compromising the quality of the outcome? Is it possible to replace some expensive construction materials and still get a result that looks elegant and even luxurious?
The short answers to both of those questions are “yes.”
Having a limited budget will reduce your ability to purchase expensive construction materials. In such instances, you’ll need to be resourceful and clever about the choices that you make. By following a few strategic tips, you can get a high quality renovation that’s not going to break the bank.
This is an important first step for everyone doing a renovation and it’s even more vital for people who have a limited budget.
Get in touch with several contractors and ask for detailed quotes.
A well-written, professional quote should include a price breakdown. How much does labour cost and how much will you have to spend on materials?
This information will give you a good idea about the most expensive aspects of the renovation. When you have these numbers, you’ll find it much easier to decide when to look for alternatives and how to effectively reduce expenditure without making a quality compromise.
Instead of instantly seeking replacements with expensive renovation materials, try to come up with a few design tweaks. By changing the scope of the renovation or the manner in which it’s going to be carried out, you could reduce expenditure and still enjoy fine materials.
Take a look at the original idea.
Are there luxuries you simply like but they’re not going to necessarily improve the functionality of your flat? If that’s the case, you can easily cut those items out and focus the budget on the biggest and most strategic improvements. This approach allows you to get fine pieces and to also improve the functionality of the design concept.
If you’re not a trained professional, you may find it difficult to judge and modify the scope of the design. Partnering up with experienced an experienced interior design company is essential in such instances. While some people worry that such a partnership can be expensive, it’s one of the best ways to carry out a cost-efficient renovation that will yield a high return on investment.
Reusing and repurposing will save you money while still giving you high quality materials to work with. At the same time, such a decision is going to boost the sustainability of your project.
Glass, wood, bricks, plastics, stone, metal and plasterboard are all construction materials you can reuse and repurpose.
This tip is best for renovation projects that involve some demolition and heavy remodelling. Don’t let essential resources go to waste! If you choose the right contractor for the job, they’ll salvage lots of valuable stuff that could be put to good use in your brand new home.
Even if you’re not demolishing a lot, there are still ways to reuse what’s already in your flat. Refinishing floors and cabinets will give those a second life without costing you a fortune. Metal pieces can also be polished. Think twice before throwing stuff away. Sometimes, a fresh coat of varnish and some paint will do miracles.
Choose Affordable Alternatives
The construction market today is really wonderful. Technological developments and innovation have resulted in an array of materials. Some engineered options look incredibly good and they’re also very affordable.
Laminate is a great alternative to solid wood. When you choose well-made laminate, you’ll make it impossible for people to tell it’s not the real thing. On top of being more affordable, laminate is much less likely to warp, twist or shrink.
Bamboo is another beautiful, affordable choice that can replace hardwood in your home.
There are various other options worth exploring – engineered marble, prefabricated panels, reclaimed timber, engineered wood, cork, veneers (instead of natural stone) and even cellulose (a replacement for expensive insulation materials) are all good choices. Many of these materials have qualities and aesthetics that surpass the appeal of expensive traditional choices. Don’t be afraid of researching and acquainting yourself with the possibilities.
Organise Your Own Deliveries
The cost of having materials delivered to your address can be overwhelming.
Talk to your contractor about the prospects of organising your own deliveries. Looking for a transportation service on your own can help you save a serious sum that would be best spent on the renovation itself.
As a final tip, do get contractors and interior designers involved during every step of the way.
These professionals are on a mission to deliver the outcome you anticipate. They also have the professional network and the know-how required to produce the most cost-efficient solution.
Home Guide’s interior design team knows what it takes to make budget renovations outstandingly powerful. Contact Home Guide now to find out more and to benefit from a well-planned, properly personalised, budget-friendly renovation.
