Upgrading Your Closets (Headline ID 448927)?

Answer 1

Homeowners often reach the point where their closet space is insufficient for the amount of items they would like to store. Closets are perfect for things they would like to keep out of sight, but have close at hand. While de-cluttering can help, many people prefer to redesign their closets so that they can store more clothes, shoes and other belongings.

There are a number of options to consider when planning a closet upgrade. The first choice you need to make is whether to hire a company to draw up plans and do the installation or to do it yourself. Having someone else take charge is much easier, but adds significantly to the cost. Your budget and your willingness to get your hands dirty on a home improvement project both factor into this decision.

If you decide to hire a company to complete the project, be sure to get multiple bids and references. You should see the units that will be installed to make sure the quality meets your needs. And, be sure to find out who is responsible for the demolition of the old closet and any other prep work that needs to be done. Do not assume that the company will do this work unless it is in the contract.

If you choose to install a closet organizer yourself, you will have many kits and modular units to consider. The basic choices are solid wood, wire or laminate units. Solid wood is usually more expensive, but many people prefer its appearance. Laminate units are less expensive than solid wood. However, they are much heavier than either solid wood or wire. Larger laminate units may require more than one person to move them into place. Laminate may also chip and separate over time and some people are sensitive to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process.

Wire closet systems are the least expensive option. They are lightweight and easy to adjust to fit any space. The better units have shelves and poles that can be adjusted without cutting. Some wire closet units allow the placement of the shelves and hanging poles to be changed after the unit is installed.