Renovating your home can be a daunting task. From picking out the right colors to choosing the perfect fixtures, there are a lot of details to consider. Add the fact that you’ll likely be living in your home during the renovation process, which can be even more challenging.
But with the help of technology, it doesn’t have to be so difficult. More and more apps and devices are popping up that can help you with everything from inspiration to organization to actually doing the work. If you’re considering renovating your home, here are a few ways technology can help.
1. Get inspiration
When renovating your home, it’s crucial to have a clear vision. And that can be tough when you’re looking at a blank slate. But there are tons of inspiring things to discover that can help you dream up the perfect space. A quick search on Pinterest or Houzz can give you all the ideas you need to get started.
There are also apps like Color911 that can help you pick out the perfect paint colors. It lets you select photos from your own library or from the app’s image gallery and then gives you color recommendations based on the hues in the photo. You can also experiment with different color combinations and save your favorites.
2. Connect with professionals
Some renovation projects are best left to the professionals. But finding an expert construction company to help you can be a challenge. You can use technology to connect with potential contractors in a few different ways.
For example, the app HomeAdvisor can help you find pros in your area for just about any job, from painting to plumbing. You can read reviews from other homeowners, get cost estimates, and even schedule appointments all through the app.
If you’re looking for more of a do-it-yourself approach, the website Porch can connect you with local handymen who can help with smaller jobs around your home. They offer services like hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and changing lightbulbs. You can read reviews, compare prices, and book appointments all on the site.
3. Manage your budget
One of the most important aspects of any home renovation project is staying on budget. And technology can help with that, too. You don’t want to overspend on materials or end up with a contractor who charges more than you can afford.
Several apps can help you track your spending and stay within your budget. For example, the Home Budget app lets you enter your income and expenses so you can see where your money is going. You can also track your progress towards financial goals, like saving for a down payment on a new home.
The app Level is another helpful tool for managing your budget. It connects to your bank account and credit cards to track your spending. It also gives you real-time notifications when you’re close to going over your budget so you can adjust your spending accordingly.
4. Make a plan
Once you have a vision for your renovation and a budget to work with, it’s time to start planning. And plenty of great apps and online tools help with that, too. Design software like SketchUp can help you create 3D models of your space so you can play around with different layouts and designs.
You can also use an app like MagicPlan to create a floor plan for your space. Just use your phone or tablet to scan the room, and the app will do the rest. You can then use the floor plan for furniture or other objects to better understand how they’ll fit in the space. Some apps even let you virtually “try out” different furniture arrangements before you buy anything.
5. Find the right materials
Not every home renovation project requires new materials. But if you need to buy some, it’s essential to find the right ones. After all, you want your unique space to look and feel how you want it to.
There are a few different ways you can use technology to find the best materials for your home. For example, the app iHandy Carpenter lets you measure objects and spaces with your phone or tablet. This can help you figure out how much material you need to buy.
Some manufacturers also have apps that let you order materials directly from them. For example, the app from Sherwin-Williams enables you to buy paint and have it delivered to your home. You can also use the app to find a nearby store if you prefer to shop in person.
As you can see, technology can be a great asset during your home renovation project. It can help you with everything from finding the right contractor to managing your budget. And it can even help you find the perfect materials for your space. So don’t be afraid to use it to your advantage. With the help of technology, your home renovation project will be a success.
