Interior, exterior, painting, flooring
Renovation guides for interiors, exteriors, paint, and floors
Renovation refreshes what you have. Sequencing matters: work from the top down and from the inside out.
Interior renovation
Group work by room and by trade. Drywall, trim, and paint should happen after any electrical or plumbing changes inside walls.
- Walk each room and list what stays, goes, or changes
- Address moisture or structural concerns first
- Order long-lead items like doors and windows early
Exterior improvements
Siding, roofing, windows, and entry doors protect everything else. Weather and season shape the schedule.
- Check flashing around windows and doors
- Compare material lifespans, not only upfront cost
- Plan exterior work for dry, mild weeks
Painting
Most of a lasting paint job is preparation: cleaning, patching, sanding, and priming the right surfaces.
- Test paint samples on several walls at different times of day
- Use the sheen suited to each room's traffic
- Check older homes for lead paint before sanding
Flooring
Match the floor to the room. Kitchens and baths need moisture resistance, bedrooms can prioritize comfort.
- Let wood and laminate acclimate before installation
- Confirm the subfloor is flat and dry
- Plan transitions between rooms in advance