Hey everyone! I just bought my first home in Northern Ireland and I'm both excited and a bit overwhelmed. It's a total renovation project and I have a rough idea of what needs to be done, but I'm looking for some insights from anyone who's gone through this process before. Here's a list of what needs work: fireplace and back boiler, old oil heating system, electrics, wallpaper on every wall, ceilings (some painted, some with polystyrene tiles), living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, a large converted attic, and a rear conservatory. I'd love any tips on what order I should tackle these things or mistakes to avoid. Even small bits of advice would mean a lot—especially things you wish you had known before diving in! Thanks a lot!
3 Answers
Hey there! That's awesome to hear you’re diving into renovations! I'd recommend starting with a big clean to assess everything. You might find some kitchen cabinets are usable temporarily, and you can consider painting over wallpaper for a bit. Definitely tackle those polystyrene tiles first since they can be a fire hazard. Don't forget to service the boiler and check for asbestos and lead paint as well. Get those messy jobs like re-plastering and sanding floors done while you’re still in the early stages!
Congrats on your new home! One crucial piece of advice is to focus on the "unsexy" tasks first. Get things like water drainage, electrical, and plumbing sorted before getting into the pretty stuff. Cosmetic improvements don’t matter if you have major issues like flooding or fires down the line. Also, take it slow! It’s overwhelming at first, but trust me, once you settle in, you might not mind that ugly bathroom as much. You can tackle those things gradually without stressing yourself out too much. Good luck with everything!
Always begin with the kitchen! It's the heart of the home and sets the tone for the rest. Trust me, getting the kitchen sorted out first makes a huge difference. Plus, it'll really motivate you as you see results in the space where you’ll spend a lot of your time. Good luck, and I can’t wait to hear how it all goes!