Renovation Mistakes That End Up Costing Homeowners More Money Later
When it comes to renovations, most homeowners aren’t trying to cut corners — they’re just trying to stay within a budget. The problem is that certain “small” decisions made early on can quietly turn into expensive problems down the road.
We see this all the time. Jobs that start as minor repairs, quick upgrades, or “good enough for now” solutions often end up needing to be redone properly a few years later — sometimes sooner.
Here are some of the most common renovation mistakes we come across, and why the boring details really do matter.
1. Skipping Proper Moisture Protection
This is one of the biggest and most expensive mistakes.
Things like sill gasket, vapour barrier, waterproofing membranes, and proper sealing don’t look exciting — but they’re what protect your home from moisture, rot, and mould.
We’ve opened up walls where framing looked fine on the outside, only to find:
rotted bottom plates
mould behind drywall
water damage that had been spreading for years
Once moisture gets in, the repair almost always costs more than doing it right the first time.
2. Poor Framing That Causes Problems Later
Framing is the backbone of your renovation. If it’s rushed or done improperly, everything that comes after suffers.
Common framing issues we see:
walls that aren’t straight or plumb
uneven floors or ceilings
poor fastening or missing blocking
framing that doesn’t account for future loads
Bad framing leads to cracks in drywall, doors that don’t close properly, uneven finishes, and long-term structural concerns. Fixing framing after finishes are installed is never cheap.
3. Chasing the Cheapest Quote
We get it — renovations are a big investment. But the cheapest quote often leaves important things out.
Low quotes commonly skip or underprice:
• proper prep work
protection of existing finishes
disposal and cleanup
realistic labour time
contingency for surprises behind walls
When these things aren’t accounted for upfront, they usually show up later as change orders, delays, or unfinished work.
4. Not Planning for Electrical and Plumbing Early
Electrical and plumbing should be thought through before walls are closed — not after.
Mistakes here include:
not adding enough outlets or lighting
poor fixture placement
outdated plumbing left “for later”
no access panels for future servicing
Opening finished walls to fix electrical or plumbing issues is frustrating and expensive. A bit of planning upfront goes a long way.
5. Using the Wrong Materials in the Wrong Places
Not all materials are meant for every environment.
Examples we see often:
standard drywall used in wet areas
untreated lumber against concrete
flooring that can’t handle moisture or temperature changes
low-quality finishes in high-use areas
The result? Premature wear, damage, and replacements much sooner than expected.
6. Ignoring Soundproofing and Fire Separation
This is especially common in basement renovations and suites.
Skipping things like resilient channel, proper insulation, and fire separation might save money initially — but it can:
lead to noise complaints
cause issues during inspections
reduce resale value
create safety concerns
Retrofitting soundproofing and fire protection after drywall is installed is not fun — or cheap.
7. Rushing the Finish Work
Finishing stages are where patience matters most.
We often see:
rushed drywall finishing
poor paint prep
uneven tile or trim
corners cut to meet deadlines
Finish work is what you see every day. Fixing poor finishes later usually means undoing work that was just completed.
8. Not Accounting for Protection and Cleanup
In lived-in homes — especially older or higher-end homes — protection matters.
Floor protection, dust control, careful demolition, and cleanup take time and effort. When these aren’t planned for, it increases the risk of damage to the rest of the house and adds stress for homeowners.
Why the “Boring Stuff” Matters
The most expensive renovation problems usually don’t come from the things you can see — they come from what’s hidden behind the walls.
Proper planning, correct materials, skilled labour, and attention to detail aren’t just about doing things “by the book.” They’re about protecting your investment and avoiding future headaches.
At the end of the day, doing it right once is almost always cheaper than doing it twice.
If you’re planning a renovation and want to make sure it’s done properly from the start, we’re always happy to talk things through and help you understand what matters most for your specific project.
Imagine. Build. Renovate.
Living Through a Renovation, How to Prepare Your Home, Family, and Sanity
Renovating your home is exciting, but living through it can be a challenge if you are not prepared.
Noise, dust, trades coming and going, and parts of your home being unavailable can add stress without the right planning. With clear expectations and good communication, renovations can still run smoothly.
That said, not all renovations are equal when it comes to living in the home during construction.
Understanding the Scope and Level of Disruption
Before any renovation begins, it is important to understand:
• Which rooms will be under construction
Whether utilities like water or power may be interrupted
How long each phase of work is expected to take
For smaller renovations, living in the home is often very manageable with proper dust control and staging.
For full-scale renovations, the reality is different.
Living In vs Temporary Housing for Full Renovations
For larger renovations, especially full homes, kitchens, bathrooms, or structural changes, we often recommend temporary housing when possible.
In many cases, this approach is more cost-effective, efficient, and better overall value for the client.
Here’s why:
Work can move faster without daily setup and teardown
Fewer access limitations for trades
Less labour spent on temporary protection and repeated cleanups
Reduced stress for homeowners and families
A smoother overall timeline
While we can absolutely accommodate clients who choose to remain in the home, full renovations are typically most successful when the space is vacant. This is something we always discuss early so clients can make the best decision for their situation.
Planning If You Choose to Stay in the Home
If staying in the home during a renovation, planning is key:
Ensuring at least one functioning bathroom at all times
Setting up a temporary kitchen if needed
Isolating work areas with proper dust protection
Phasing work to maintain livable spaces
We take great care to keep homes as clean and functional as possible, but expectations should be realistic during heavier construction phases.
Protecting Your Belongings
Even with professional dust control, renovations create debris and fine dust.
We recommend:
Removing valuables and artwork from work areas
Clearing nearby closets and cabinets
Using sealed containers or off-site storage when possible
These steps help protect your belongings and keep the project moving efficiently.
Families, Pets, and Daily Life
Renovations affect more than just the structure:
Noise and activity can be stressful for children and pets
Clear safety boundaries are essential
Pets often do best staying elsewhere during louder phases
For full renovations, temporary housing is often the least disruptive option for everyone involved.
Expect the Unexpected, Especially in Older Homes
Opening walls can reveal outdated plumbing, wiring, or structural issues, particularly in older homes.
This is not a problem, it is part of doing the job properly.
Clear communication, transparent pricing, and documented change orders help keep expectations aligned.
Final Thoughts
Renovations are temporary, the results are long-term.
For full renovations, temporarily living out of the home is often the most efficient and cost-effective approach, but every situation is different.
Our role is to guide clients honestly, explain the options clearly, and build a plan that makes sense for the home, the budget, and the long-term goals.
If you are planning a renovation and want to talk through the best approach, we are always happy to help.
Prestige Valley Construction
Residential and Commercial Renovations
Serving Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley
Imagine. Build. Renovate.
Basement Suites in BC: Legal Requirements, Costs, and ROI for Homeowners (2026 Guide)
Basement suites have become one of the most popular renovation projects in the Fraser Valley and Greater Vancouver area — and for good reason. Between rental income, multigenerational living, and rising housing costs, a well-built suite can turn underused square footage into a serious asset.
But turning a basement into a legal suite isn’t as simple as framing a couple of walls and dropping in cabinets. There are important rules, safety requirements, and hidden costs that homeowners often don’t realize until they’re already deep into construction.
Here’s what BC homeowners should know before starting.
1. Legal vs. “Non-Legal” Basement Suites
In BC, especially cities like Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Surrey, and Langley, there are two categories of suites:
✔ Legal suites:
Meet building code, safety requirements, permits, secondary suite regulations, and zoning. Can be rented long-term and insured properly.
✔ Non-legal suites:
Common in older homes. May have been built without permits or proper fire separation. Cheaper upfront, but riskier for insurance, resale, and tenant issues.
If you’re going to spend the money renovating, our honest opinion is that it’s almost always worth doing it legal. It protects you when renting and increases property value.
2. Key Requirements for a Legal Suite (BC Building Code)
Every municipality has slightly different rules, but generally you’ll need:
• Proper egress windows (escape in case of fire)
• Fire separation between units (drywall, resilient channel, etc.)
• Independent heating or safe shared system
• Smoke & CO detection (interconnected)
• Separate kitchen with cooking ventilation
• Bathroom with proper plumbing & venting
• Minimum ceiling heights
• Sound separation
• Independent entrance
• Approved electrical work
These are the most common areas where budgets drift — not because homeowners don’t want to do things right, but because older basements were never designed to be dwellings.
3. What Does it Cost to Build a Basement Suite in BC? (2026 Pricing)
Costs depend heavily on
• condition of the existing basement
• plumbing/electrical locations
• ceiling heights
• layout
• finishes
• waterproofing issues
General ranges we see in the Fraser Valley:
Basic Basement Suite: $55,000 – $85,000
Safe, functional, cost-conscious finishes. Good for rental income.
Mid-Range Suite: $85,000 – $120,000
Better kitchen, nicer bathroom, soundproofing upgrades, improved layout.
High-End / Legal Suite: $120,000 – $175,000+
Best for long-term value, resale, extended family living, income suites in newer homes, etc.
If waterproofing, drainage, asbestos, electrical upgrades, or structural changes are required, add more.
4. Rental Income & ROI: Does It Actually Pay Off?
Most basement suites in Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, and Langley rent between:
$1,500 – $2,200/month
(Depending on size, number of bedrooms, and location)
Over a year, that’s:
$18,000 – $26,400/year
Meaning a $90k suite could effectively pay itself off in 3.5–5 years while also adding resale value.
For homeowners who plan to sell, legal suites often bump property value by:
+10% to +20% (depending on market conditions)
5. Best Use Cases for Basement Suites
Homeowners build suites for different reasons:
• Rental income
• Mortgage helper
• In-law living
• Adult children returning home
• Multigenerational family living
• Airbnb / short-term rentals (location dependent)
In our experience, suites built for family are where quality and layout matter most — people want natural light, proper kitchens, and comfort.
6. Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
Realistically:
Planning + Permits: 4–12 weeks
Construction: 8–16 weeks
Final inspections & occupancy: 1–4 weeks
The jobs that go sideways are usually the ones where homeowners try to start right away without planning for permits, plumbing, electrical, or inspections.
7. Should You Renovate a Basement Suite in 2026?
If your goal is:
✔ Increase property value
✔ Add rental income
✔ Prepare for resale
✔ Support family living
✔ Maximize unused space
— then it makes a lot of sense.
Suites are one of the few renovations that can be both financially smart and practical.
Final Thoughts
Basement suites aren’t a “weekend project.” They’re part construction, part planning, part permitting, and part building science. Done right, they pay for themselves — done wrong, they become a headache.
If you’re thinking about building or renovating a suite in the Fraser Valley, Prestige Valley Construction specializes in:
• Legal basement suites
• Rental suites
• In-law suites
• Waterproofing + drainage
• Full remodels
• Structural adjustments
• Electrical + plumbing coordination
• Turnkey solutions
We handle both the build and the coordination so you don’t have to chase 7 trades around your basement.
Should You Renovate or Leave It As-Is? How to Know When It’s Worth It
Renovations are one of those things homeowners tend to wrestle with. You might look at an outdated kitchen, a tired bathroom, or an unfinished basement and think: Should I go for it, or is it better to leave it for the next owner?
There isn’t one right answer, but there are good ways to figure out what makes the most sense for your home, your budget, and your long-term plans.
Start With Your Goals
Ask yourself what you’re really trying to accomplish.
Most homeowners fall into one of three groups:
• Improve comfort & lifestyle (you want a better space for your family)
• Increase property value (you may sell in the future and want a return)
• Repair damage or fix a problem (water, rot, leaks, structural issues, etc.)
Your answer changes how you should look at the renovation.
When Renovating Makes Sense
Renovations make the most sense when:
• The layout or design is hurting how you use the space
• Major systems are aging (plumbing, electrical, waterproofing)
• Damage or moisture is present (delaying only makes it worse)
• You plan to stay in the home for a few years or more
• Comparable homes in your area are more updated
• You want to increase rental value or finish a suite
• The work will solve safety or structural concerns
Renovating isn’t just about “making things nicer.” Often it’s about protecting the home, improving function, and future-proofing the space.
When It’s Better to Leave Things As-Is
Sometimes skipping the renovation is actually smarter, especially when:
• You expect to sell soon and buyers might want to choose finishes
• The renovation would push you past the price ceiling in your neighbourhood
• The space works fine for your lifestyle as-is
• The only motive is cosmetic and budget is tight
• Repairs are enough to get things through another few years
A quick cleanup, paint, or small touch-ups can be surprisingly effective in these cases.
Think in Terms of Return — Financial or Personal
There’s ROI (return on investment) and then there’s ROE (return on enjoyment).
Both matter, but they’re not always equal.
Examples:
• A basement suite might pay for itself through rental income.
• A new kitchen won’t “pay rent,” but can change how you live day to day.
• Waterproofing or drainage won’t impress buyers visually, but protects the home long-term.
Market Trends Matter Too
In the Fraser Valley, we see consistent buyer demand for:
• Legal suites / basement finishes
• Updated kitchens and bathrooms
• Waterproofing and exterior durability upgrades
• Outdoor spaces (decks, patios, covered areas)
• Energy-efficient improvements
Homes that have these tend to move faster and hold value better.
Renovating When Selling
If you’re getting ready to sell, renovations can be strategic.
The focus should be on:
• First impressions
• High-use areas
• Repairs buyers would flag on inspection
Not every reno makes sense right before listing, but the right one can put you in a different price bracket.
Our Approach at Prestige Valley Construction
We always start with the practicality of the space first.
If a repair is smarter than a full renovation, we’ll say so. If the renovation unlocks value or function, we’ll explain why.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on the home, the person, and the timeline.
Thinking About Renovating Now or Later?
If you’ve been unsure whether to renovate, repair, or hold off, feel free to reach out. A quick walkthrough or even a couple photos can help us give honest advice based on your goals.
Prestige Valley Construction
Serving Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Langley & Fraser Valley
📞 778-716-6222
🌐 PrestigeValley.ca
Rebuild or Repair? What to Do When Your Deck Starts Failing
A deck should be one of the best parts of a home — a place to relax, barbecue, have friends over, or just drink your coffee in peace. But in the Fraser Valley, we see the same thing happen over and over again: rain, moisture, UV, and age start to win. Boards rot. Railings get loose. Stairs settle. The home inspector starts circling things with a pen.
At that point, homeowners are left with the same question… “Do I repair it or just rebuild the whole thing?”
There isn’t one answer that fits every deck, but here’s how we approach it as professional builders.
1. The Safety Check (Non-Negotiable)
Before talking price, finishes, or materials, we always look at safety.
The biggest red flags we see out here are:
Soft or rotten framing
Loose posts or railings
Decks pulling away from the house
Stairs settling or sagging
Old fasteners corroding through
If any of these are showing up, band-aid repairs usually don’t last. A rebuild is almost always the smarter move.
2. Structural Condition & Age
Most decks in the valley were built 15–30 years ago and weren’t designed to last forever — especially not with our weather.
If the framing is still solid and the structure is sound, repairing makes sense. But if the bones are tired, you’ll spend more money “chasing repairs” than replacing it once.
3. Moisture + Drainage Problems
Abbotsford and Mission get hit hard with moisture. If your deck isn’t sloped properly, flashing is missing, or the waterproofing has failed, the issues are already inside the wood.
When moisture gets in, it’s usually downhill from there. Rebuilding often gives you a waterproof system that actually performs.
4. Lifestyle & Value Add
A new deck does more than look good. It actually increases the value of the home and makes outdoor living more enjoyable.
People rebuild when they want:
More usable space
Better stairs and traffic flow
A covered area
Privacy screens
Composite decking for low maintenance
A design that matches how they actually live
It’s one of those upgrades that pays you back in both lifestyle and resale.
5. Material Choices (Where Things Really Change)
Decking materials have come a long way. You’ve got options now:
Pressure treated – affordable and solid
Cedar – classic look, natural but needs maintenance
Composite – lasts longer, minimal upkeep, huge resale value
Vinyl / Duradek – waterproof roof-grade decks, great for patios over living areas
For a lot of homeowners, switching to composite is the moment they decide to rebuild because it only makes sense once everything underneath is new and built for long-term durability.
6. When Repairs Make Sense
Repairs are smart when:
Structure is sound
Damage is isolated to a few boards
Railings just need tightening
Stairs can be corrected
Deck is relatively new and well-built
This turns into a weekend-sized project instead of a full investment.
7. When Rebuilding Just Makes More Sense
Rebuilding is worth considering when:
Deck is older than 15–20 years
There’s rot in multiple places
Moisture is inside the structure
Railings and stairs are unsafe
You want composite or low-maintenance upgrades
You want to improve layout or add covered space
Most rebuilds are homeowners future-proofing their space so they don’t have to think about it again for decades.
Prestige Valley Construction Approach
When we look at a deck, we’re not trying to upsell you — we’re trying to help you make the smartest choice for your house, your budget, and your goals.
We repair decks. We rebuild decks. We waterproof them. We handle structural upgrades, composite systems, modern railings, and covered spaces.
If it’s worth fixing, we’ll tell you.
If it’s smarter to rebuild, we’ll tell you that too.
Serving the Fraser Valley
We build and repair decks across:
Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Langley, Maple Ridge, Vancouver, and everywhere in between.
Thinking About Your Deck?
Send us a photo or book a walkthrough — no pressure. We’ll give you an honest assessment and a path forward.
Prestige Valley Construction
778-716-6222
PrestigeValley.ca
Pressure Treated vs. Composite vs. Vinyl Decking: What’s the Best Choice for Your Project?
If you’re planning to build or upgrade a deck, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right material. Each type of decking—pressure treated wood, composite, and vinyl—has its own benefits, price points, and maintenance requirements. At Prestige Valley Construction, we work with all three (and more), and here’s what you should know to make the best decision for your home.
1. Pressure Treated Wood Decking
Pressure treated lumber is the most traditional and budget-friendly option. It’s widely available, easy to work with, and a great choice for homeowners wanting a classic wood look without breaking the bank.
• Pros:
• Lower material cost
• Can be stained or painted to your style
• Readily available and easy to repair
• Cons:
• Requires yearly maintenance (staining/sealing)
• More prone to warping or cracking over time
• Shorter lifespan than other materials (typically 10–15 years)
Best for: Homeowners on a tighter budget who don’t mind doing regular maintenance and enjoy the natural look of wood.
2. Composite (or PVC) Decking
Composite decking is made from recycled plastics and wood fibers, while PVC decking is made entirely from plastic. Both options offer a wood-like appearance with minimal maintenance and long-term durability.
• Pros:
• No staining or sealing required
• Extremely durable and resistant to rot, insects, and moisture
• Comes in a wide variety of colors and woodgrain styles
• Optional Trex RainEscape system can be added to create a fully waterproof deck with usable space underneath
• Cons:
• Higher upfront cost than wood
• Can get warm under direct sunlight
• Slightly heavier and more complex to install
Best for: Homeowners looking for a sleek, long-lasting, low-maintenance option. Great for both ground-level and second-story decks, especially when paired with under-deck waterproofing solutions.
3. Vinyl Decking
Vinyl decking is a completely different system than the other two. Instead of planks, it’s a durable, slip-resistant membrane applied over a plywood deck surface to create a 100% waterproof finish.
• Pros:
• Fully waterproof and slip-resistant
• Ideal for second-storey decks or decks over living space
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Safe, smooth surface with a clean finish
• Available in a variety of styles, including woodgrain patterns, textured stone, or sand-inspired looks
• Cons:
• Not a true plank-decking system
• Requires a plywood base for installation
Best for: Clients looking for a clean, low-maintenance waterproof surface—especially on elevated decks or patio covers where water protection is essential, but still want a stylish finish.
Final Thoughts
Each decking option has its strengths. Whether you want the affordability of pressure treated, the long-term value and design flexibility of composite/PVC, or the waterproof performance of vinyl, we can help you choose the right fit.
Always remember: even composite or PVC decks can be waterproofed using under-deck drainage systems like Trex RainEscape—great for keeping patios dry and functional below.
Need help planning your deck?
Reach out to Prestige Valley Construction to book a free consultation. We’ll walk you through every step of the process and help you build a deck that’s not only beautiful, but built to last.
Typical Current Bathroom Renovation Costs in Fraser Valley
The average cost for a full bathroom renovation in the Fraser Valley typically ranges between $10,000 – $25,000+, depending on size, materials, and complexity.
Here’s a general breakdown:
• Small Powder Room Refresh: $5,000 – $8,000
• Standard Full Bathroom Remodel: $10,000 – $18,000
• High-End or Custom Bathrooms: $20,000 – $30,000+
Factors That Affect the Cost
1. Size of the Bathroom
Larger spaces mean more flooring, more tile, and more labour.
2. Scope of Work
Are we updating finishes, or doing a full gut renovation with layout changes, new plumbing, and electrical upgrades?
3. Material Selections
Tile, vanities, fixtures, and countertops can vary widely in price. We help you find the best quality for your budget.
4. Custom Features
Niches, benches, curbless showers, heated floors, or freestanding tubs all add value—but also cost.
5. Existing Conditions
Rot, water damage, or outdated plumbing can add unexpected costs—but we always communicate openly and find solutions.
What’s Included in a Full Bathroom Renovation?
At Prestige Valley Construction, our full bathroom remodels include:
• Demolition & disposal
• Framing adjustments if needed
• Plumbing & drainage rough-ins
• Shower pan installation & waterproofing
• Full tile install (walls + floor)
• Drywall, mudding, painting
• Vanity, mirror, lighting, and fixture installs
• Final cleanup and client walkthrough
Looking to Get Started?
We offer free in-person consultations and customized quotes so you know exactly what to expect. Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly refresh or a luxury spa-like retreat, we’re here to help.
Contact us today at
778-716-6222
prestigevalleyconstruction@gmail.com
High end custom bathroom
High end custom bathroom
Full bath remodel
Prestige Valley Construction
It all begins with an idea.
At Prestige Valley Construction, we believe in empowering homeowners with knowledge and inspiration for their renovation journey. That’s why we maintain a Blog & Resources section packed with helpful information and expert insights. Whether you’re looking for practical home improvement tips or the latest trends in home design, our blog has something for you. We regularly share renovation ideas, guides, and before-and-after project highlights to spark ideas and answer your questions.
Our blog will provides educational, value-packed content such as:
• Home Renovation Tips & Guides: Learn about best practices for planning a renovation, budgeting, and DIY maintenance tips to keep your home in top shape.
• Design Trends & Inspiration: Stay updated on the latest design trends, innovative materials, and creative ideas to make your space stylish and functional.
• Project Spotlights (Before & After): See transformations from our recent projects. We showcase before-and-after photos and walk you through the process and results, so you know what to expect.
• Expert Advice: Get answers to common renovation questions and dilemmas straight from our experts. From choosing the right paint to understanding permit requirements, we’ve got you covered.
We update our blog regularly, so be sure to check back for new articles and resources. Our goal is to make our blog a valuable resource for anyone planning a renovation – even if you’re just gathering ideas, you’ll find plenty of useful information to guide and inspire you.