Planning a Home Renovation? Think Beyond Design!

[Dave Gabruk]

When planning a home renovation, it's easy to focus on the excitement of picking out tiles, colors, and layouts—but there’s a lot happening behind the walls and floors that often gets overlooked.

 A homeowner I worked with wanted to remove a load-bearing wall to create an open-concept kitchen. The design was great, but they hadn’t accounted for the structural modifications needed. Without proper support, removing the wall could have compromised the structure of the entire house. Thankfully, we caught it during the plan review stage, and with a stamped structural design, they got the kitchen of their dreams—without jeopardizing safety or facing surprise delays.

Here’s what to think about when renovating:

• Structural Changes: Even moving a wall can have ripple effects on the stability of your home.
• HVAC Systems: New layouts might need adjusted airflow or ductwork.
• Plumbing and Electrical: Moving sinks, showers, or outlets requires careful rerouting to comply with building codes.

Before starting demolition or submitting permits, have your plans reviewed by a licensed engineer or architect to avoid costly surprises. Small upfront investments in expertise can save you big in the long run.