A Homeowner's Perspective: How to Navigate the Renovation Planning Process

When considering an exterior remodel, homeowners can often be intimidated by the layers of planning and countless decisions to be made…from choosing the right remodeler to selecting lasting materials to picking out a paint color. With the level of investment that goes into a renovation, it's vital for homeowners to put in the time to ensure they are making the right choices throughout the planning process to achieve their desired result.

Homeowners, James and Stella, whose remodel recently appeared on the popular tv show Designing Spaces, know this process all too well. Their 108-year-old home still had its original siding when it was damaged by Hurricane Florence in 2018. Once the storm settled, it was time for them to begin their journey into the world of renovation. They approached their remodel with attention to detail and certainty in their aesthetic needs. Here are their top pieces of advice when it comes to efficiently navigating renovation planning:

Invest Time in Research

After the hurricane, James and Stella say it was initially challenging to find companies to do the residing. It was then that they decided to invest their time in extensive online research to ensure they were finding the best materials for the job. During their research, they came across LP^® SmartSide^® Smooth Trim & Siding on the LP website, where they took the time to read up on the product and started their quest to find the right remodeler. Their research laid the foundation for a productive remodel, as James says, “We were looking for a durable option for the siding that was lower maintenance and had a long-lasting life.” After their research, they were excited about the benefits LP SmartSide Smooth Trim & Siding could bring to their renovation. 

Choose the Right Remodeler

Through their “Request a Quote” click on LPSmartSide.com, the couple was introduced to Brent Taylor, owner of the O.C. Taylor remodeling company in Raleigh, North Carolina and Master-Level member of the LP BuildSmart^™ Preferred Contractor Program. They weren't completely sold on the product until their in-person meeting with Brent the very next day. James elaborates, “After Brent contacted us, he met us and showed examples of the LP SmartSide siding products, and we were even more intrigued… After that discussion and everything we read about the product, it seemed like the perfect product for the house.”

Talk About the Materials

Choosing LP SmartSide siding products was a collaborative effort, making both parties completely confident in the final product. James and Stella knew they wanted a product that was durable enough to withstand extreme weather while maintaining the “original charm” of the home, and a longtime remodeler in the region, Brent confirmed through extensive first-hand experience that LP SmartSide Smooth Trim & Siding was the best solution. “Brent came over to the house and he talked about the LP SmartSide siding products,” says James. Having an open discussion about the desired product attributes brought the assurance needed to guarantee a smooth remodel.

All in all, James, Stella and Brent all attribute this renovation's success to their productive working relationship and open communication. So, if you're planning a remodel, take their advice and take the time to find the best product and remodeler for the job. Check out their inspiring story to learn more about their renovation planning process from start to finish.