“It’s a TOTAL gut job, but…” – You
If you just bought a home or an investment property, making it feel like home can be a challenge. The solution? A home renovation! Gutting and renovating it into the house of your dreams is a lot of work, but it is well worth it in the end.
But wait! Before you get too excited for demo day, here are some answers to the questions that you may have about gutting your house and how we can put it all together again. Here we outline FAQs about the renovation process:
#1. What Does “Gutting” Mean?
#2. What Happens Before Demo Day?
#3. How Long Does It Take to Gut a House?
#4. Is it Worth Gutting an Old House?
#5. How Much Does It Cost to Gut a House?
#1. What Does “Gutting” Mean?
There is a BIG difference between a simple remodel and gutting a property. “Gutting” a home means that you are ripping out everything down to the studs, possibly adding additions, updating the exterior, and perhaps getting a new roof installed if it needs it.
A full gut renovation involves stripping the house of windows, wall material, flooring, fixtures, cabinets, and something plumbing and electrical. This leaves you with the structural skeleton to design from.
This is where you can have fun! Consider adding a second story, a garage, or a casita for guests to stay in when they are visiting. Dream BIG! When gutting a house, the options are endless.
Ask yourself:
- Do you want to add a home office?
- Is the bathroom big enough?
- How is the closet space and storage space throughout the house?
- Do you want an attached or detached garage?
- What house features have you always wanted?
- Is the kitchen outdated?
- What about flooring?
As you can see, there is much to consider when gutting a house. Don’t let it overwhelm you—this is the time to dream up the house that you always wanted! (but stay on budget of course!)
Be Prepared > What It’s Really Like to Live Through a Renovation
#2. What Happens Before Demo Day?
Though you may be itching to get started, keep in mind some things need to be done before demo can begin. These include:
Get a Permit if Necessary
Check your local government’s regulations and see if you require a demolition permit. Interior-only projects may be exempt from a demolition permit or lumped in with a building permit, but it is important to check before beginning.
This is where working with a licensed contractor from Onsite Construction is especially helpful, we do the paperwork for you!
Insurance
Before beginning any housing renovation, check to see whether you have the proper insurance. There are two types that you generally need: insurance on your property and insurance on the workers.
Though a simple renovation project usually won’t require additional insurance other than your homeowner’s insurance policy, if you are completely gutting the home and it will be unoccupied for an extended period, you may need to get a builder’s risk or vacant dwelling insurance policy.
Of course, when you hire a building contractor from Onsite Construction, we have our own insurance to cover our work and contractors. We take great pride in our safety.
Make a Plan
Before gutting anything, we will take time with you to make a home renovation checklist. This includes determining which rooms we are going to gut and renovate; and which features, like a home office, or addition that you want to add.
It is wise to determine if anything in the house is reusable, which is why it is important to not begin demolition hastily.
Mark What Stays and What Goes
Before beginning any demo, it is important to mark what stays and what goes to prevent confusion and mistakes while hammers are swinging. Either write on the walls or use colored tape to mark what is what.
#3. How Long Does It Take to Gut a House?
Depending on the scope of the project, gutting a house can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months. Demo is generally completed in a day or two, but framing, adding on, installing flooring, painting, etc. takes time!
#4. Is It Worth Gutting an Old House?
Here at Onsite Construction, we love renovating historic properties and older homes. Older homes have strong frames and foundations that lend well to renovations and additions and can be a great investment.
Before purchasing an older home with the idea of gutting or renovations in mind, it is important to have an inspection completed to ensure that the investment is worth it and that it can withstand extensive renovations.
It is also important to keep in mind that some older houses in historic districts may have regulations on what can and can’t be renovated and must follow specific guidelines from the historic preservation society in your city. Always check before any major renovations.
We are passionate about renovating and restoring historic homes in Tampa Bay. Ready to get started? Call Onsite Construction today; 813-579-5789!
#5. How Much Does It Cost to Gut a House?
Depending on the size of the home, the scope of the project, and the cost of materials and labor, removing everything down to the studs can cost $100,000 and up. Keep in mind, this is just an estimate and will vary based on your unique project.
We work on high-end homes and specialize in additions and luxury fixtures, so keep this in mind when budgeting for your project.
Let’s Add-On!> What to Know About Home Additions
Renovate Your Dream Home with Onsite Construction
Renovating and completely gutting a house to create the house you have always wanted has never been easier! Our team at Onsite Construction is excited to help make your house dreams a reality and is ready to help you gut the entire house, renovate, and add on a casita, garage, or home office.
Dream big with Onsite Construction. We’ll answer any questions you have and be with you every step of the way. Go on, gut jobs are our specialty; call us for a renovation quote for your Tampa, FL home today; 813-579-5789!
