Lumber Is Expensive Right Now. Here Are 5 Expert Tips to Save on Remodeling Costs

If you’re like a lot of Americans, being stuck at home during the pandemic has given you a few ideas about remodeling your space.

Maybe you need a proper home office, or it’s finally time to redo that kitchen from the 1970s. No matter what your project is or how you finance it, you may find yourself spending a lot more money than you budgeted for if you’re not careful. The price of building materials has shot up during the pandemic, the result of a surge in demand and shortage of supply. Lumber prices, even after a recent decline, are still about twice as high as they were in April 2020.

But there are still a few ways you can save on remodeling costs, if you’re willing to get creative. NextAdvisor recently interviewed remodeling experts, including Judy Transue, a Certified Remodeler with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) to get suggestions for saving money while lumber costs are high.

Their suggestions include starting with the right design, repurposing  and recycling materials, looking for big-box discounts, selling what you no longer need, and most importantly, working with a professional remodeler.

Professional remodelers and contractors have access to products that the average consumer doesn’t. “Lumber prices are what they are,” Transue says. “Working with a remodeler, they are able to get discounts at lumber yards,” she adds.

Transue suggested starting with the NARI as a resource for finding and hiring a qualified professional. You can find a local NARI Professional Remodeler at remodelingdoneright.com.
 
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