We specialise in property upgrades and solutions for oceanfront property owners. We also can and do work with all manufacturer products.
Call Now

What Are the Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make During Renovations?

Home » Blog » What Are the Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make During Renovations?


Renovating Your Home

Renovating your home should be an exciting experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a new garden decking layout, planning a complete home makeover, or simply upgrading a few tired-looking rooms, the right improvements can add serious value to your property. But as we’ve seen time and time again across Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Southampton, Weymouth and the wider Dorset area, many renovation projects go off track because of avoidable mistakes.

At Coastal Property Improvements, we’ve helped homeowners rescue renovation projects of every size. From decking installation to carpentry services and full construction work, we’ve seen where things go wrong and, more importantly, how to get them right.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the biggest mistakes homeowners make during renovations, along with friendly, practical advice to help you steer clear of them.

Contact us

Diving Into a Renovation Without Proper Planning

One of the most common issues we see is homeowners rushing into a project without solid planning. A lack of planning can lead to spiralling costs, delays, or disappointing results.

Good planning includes thinking about:

  • The full scope of the renovation

  • A realistic timeline

  • Choosing the right materials

  • Factoring in weather conditions, especially for coastal properties

  • Budgeting with contingency funds

  • Selecting the right trades, such as qualified carpentry fitters or decking installers

Skipping these steps can turn even simple home improvements into a stressful experience.

Underestimating the Coastal Climate

Living by the sea is a dream but it comes with unique challenges that many homeowners overlook during renovations.

Properties across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, Weymouth and Southampton face constant exposure to salt, moisture, strong winds, and UV rays. Choosing the wrong materials can lead to early deterioration, warping, rotting, or corrosion.

Common coastal mistakes include:

  • Choosing untreated timber for decking installation

  • Skipping weatherproofing steps

  • Selecting indoor-grade materials for exterior projects

  • Ignoring drainage considerations for garden decking Bournemouth homes need

  • Using cheap fixings that corrode in salty air

Choosing the Wrong Contractors

Hiring the wrong people can be one of the most expensive renovation mistakes. Poor workmanship, unfinished projects, and miscommunication can cause major headaches.

We’ve been called in to fix countless jobs done by inexperienced contractors, especially with decking installation, carpentry services, and structural renovation work.

Red flags include:

  • No clear quote or breakdown

  • Poor communication

  • No insurance

  • Limited portfolio

  • Unrealistic promises

  • Cheap pricing that’s “too good to be true”

Trying to DIY Without the Skills

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of DIY but some projects really shouldn’t be attempted without professional experience.

Mistakes with construction, carpentry installation, or decking installation can lead to:

  • Dangerous structural issues

  • Water damage

  • Poor finishes

  • Costly do-overs

  • Failed safety checks

  • Reduced property value

Typical DIY Disasters We See

  • Uneven decking Christchurch installations

  • Timber cut incorrectly

  • Unsafe balustrades

  • Poorly treated wood swelling and cracking

  • Incorrect drainage solutions in decking Weymouth gardens

Using the Wrong Materials

Examples of expensive material mistakes:

  • Using untreated wood for decking Southampton projects

  • Choosing softwoods that warp in salty air

  • Opting for low-grade fixings that rust

  • Selecting the wrong type of composite for high-moisture zones

Failing to Set a Realistic Budget

Typical budgeting errors include:

  • Forgetting to factor in labour costs

  • Underestimating material prices

  • Not allowing for waste or breakage








    Avoid Renovation Mistakes With the Right Team Behind You

    Home renovations can transform your property adding value, improving functionality, and enhancing your lifestyle. But without proper planning, the right materials, and skilled professionals, projects can quickly go off course.

    We’re here to help you avoid all of these mistakes. Whether you’re looking for decking Bournemouth residents trust, carpentry services, construction support, or complete home improvements, our team brings years of experience across Dorset, from decking Poole to decking Southampton, Christchurch, and Weymouth.

    Need help with your renovation?

    Get in touch with us today we’d love to help you bring your home improvement ideas to life.

    Copyright © Coastal Property Improvements 2021 - 2026 — Web Design Dorset by Brown Booth