Reno Myths, Debunked!
Renovations have a reputation for blown budgets, endless timelines, and unnecessary stress; but those outcomes aren’t inevitable. In reality, most renovation problems stem from unclear planning, rushed decisions, and misaligned teams. Below, we’re breaking down three of the most common renovation myths and sharing what truly leads to predictable costs, reliable timelines, and smoother projects.
Myth #1: “Renovations Always Go Over Budget”
Reality: A proven process, strong construction planning, and early decision-making dramatically reduce the risk of surprise costs.
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What our clients have to say…
“We’ve hired I Know A Guy renovations twice and both times the experience has exceeded our expectations. They were very thorough in their cost breakdown and schedule and they were willing to help us find ways to complete the project to our standards while also working within our set budget. They are a great team and we look forward to working with them again.” -Beth B.
Myth #2: “Renovations Take Forever, and Run Longer Than Expected”
Reality: When the timeline is built from start to finish before a project begins, the team can work in sync to meet it.
Delays aren’t caused by “renovation chaos”. Renovations run long when there’s no clear roadmap, no shared target, or no alignment between the people doing the work. When a timeline is thoughtfully developed in advance — based on scope, sequencing, and trade availability — it becomes a common goal the entire team can plan around.
With clarity and coordination, progress becomes intentional, predictable, and far more efficient.
What our clients have to say…
“On time and on budget. Whenever someone asks me how my home renovation went, this is my answer. The team’s process ensures that things run so smoothly I never worried for a minute about the project finishing on time. From the design and plan to the walk through with contractors and the timeline posted at the project – there is room for adjustments but the process ensures that things stay on track all the way through.” – Heather H.
Myth #3: “I Should Wait Until I Have Everything Figured Out Before Calling a Contractor”
Reality: The earlier a contractor is involved, the strong (and more realistic) the plan becomes.
Many homeowners feel they need every detail finalized before reaching out. In practice, bringing an experienced contractor into the process early strengthens the plan on paper, where changes are easiest and least costly to make.
When a trusted construction partner works alongside your designer from the start, structural considerations, feasibility, and budget alignment can be addressed together. Strong relationships and open collaboration mean fewer assumptions, fewer surprises, and a smoother path forward.
What our clients have to say…
“Our renovation is just beautiful. Jesse, Christy and their team helped up plan the “face lift” to our house in Lakeview Village and it was so crucial to have their expertise. Their suggestions were invaluable and they spent many months and reiterations of the scope of work until it was nailed down to the final tile. We left them the keys and disappeared for the winter and returned to basically a new home. The workmanship from their trades was impeccable. Thank you for our new “old” home. We love it.” -Laura S.
Renovations don’t have to be unpredictable or overwhelming, especially when they’re guided by a clear process and the right team from the start. For homeowners, successful renovation projects come down to early planning, thoughtful collaboration, and working with an experienced contractor who understands local building conditions, permitting requirements, and trade coordination.
Calgary homeowners deserve renovations done right and done well. When the groundwork is done properly, renovations become far more controlled, efficient, and rewarding! And turns uncertainty into confidence and ideas into well-executed spaces.
