Choosing Materials Early in the Remodeling Process

One of the best ways to ensure a successful remodeling project is to choose your materials before work gets underway. Delays in product availability are common, so waiting until your contractor is onsite to make selections can quickly derail your timeline and add unexpected costs. Here are a couple of things to consider:

Start with cabinets and plumbing fixtures. Cabinets often take the longest to arrive (typically six to eight weeks), so they should be the first items you select and order. The same goes for plumbing fixtures, which are currently seeing extended lead times. If you wait until construction begins, your project may stall while you wait for these essential components to arrive.

Don’t wait on tile or countertops. While tile and countertops often have shorter lead times (usually one to two weeks), they should still be ordered before the project begins. Even small delays can cause scheduling issues, especially if the installation crew is waiting for those pieces to be ready.

Remember, preparation is everything in remodeling, so if you understand your lead times and make sure all necessary materials are in place before the first hammer swings, you’ll go a long way toward ensuring the quality and efficiency of your project.