Let’s talk about it, that “quick fix” you’re planning? It might be hiding a whole mess of problems. St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the country, and in Florida homes, especially older ones, it’s common to start a small project and uncover a much bigger issue. As a contractor, I’ve seen it time and time again.
Tip #1: Know What’s Behind the Wall
You want to replace a vanity or backsplash? Sounds easy. But what if the plumbing behind it is leaking? What if there’s mold? Every “simple” job has layers, and walls don’t show their secrets until you open them.
Tip #2: Budget for the Unknown
Add 10 to 20 percent to your budget as a contingency. That’s not pessimistic, it’s smart. Surprises aren’t the exception here. They’re the norm, especially in the historic and older neighborhoods around St. Augustine where original construction methods weren’t built to today’s standards.
Tip #3: Communicate With Your Contractor
If a small project turns into a bigger one, your contractor should walk you through it. Why does this cost more? What are the options? You want transparency, not a sudden bill with no explanation.
One client in St. Augustine called me to swap out cabinets in her laundry room. We pulled them down and found termite damage in the studs. It added two weeks and $1,800, but if we hadn’t fixed it, the entire wall could’ve collapsed in the next storm.
Tip #4: Think Long-Term
If you’re already doing some work, ask yourself if it’s worth upgrading nearby things at the same time. Replacing tile? Might be a good time to address that aging grout or old plumbing while everything’s open.
Tip #5: Don’t Rush
Trying to squeeze a “quick job” between guests or events can backfire. Give the project breathing room. Rushing almost always leads to mistakes, delays, or half-finished work.
In short: small jobs often reveal big truths. Be ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do small renovation jobs in older St. Augustine homes cost more than expected?
Older homes here were often built before current plumbing, electrical, and pest prevention standards existed, so a small cosmetic job frequently uncovers issues like termite damage, outdated wiring, or hidden leaks that weren’t part of the original plan.
How much should I budget for unexpected repairs during a small remodel?
A contingency of 10 to 20 percent on top of your project quote is a reasonable starting point, and it’s worth setting that aside before work even starts rather than scrambling if something comes up.
Should I get an inspection before starting a small renovation?
For older St. Augustine homes especially, a quick inspection of the area being worked on can catch major issues like termite damage or moisture before demo starts, which can save time and money compared to finding it mid-project.
Starting a Project in St. Augustine?
Our general contractor team has seen what’s typically hiding behind the walls of older St. Augustine homes, and we build that into how we scope every project. Read what past clients experienced on our Google Business Profile.