# 10 Most Common Mistakes During Renovation: "Don't Do This" from a Master's Perspective
In our 20 years of experience, 80% of mistakes made during renovation focus on the same topics. These mistakes lead to costly repairs, time loss, and disappointment. In this guide, we address the 10 most common mistakes made during renovation in Kadıköy, Bakırköy, Beşiktaş, Şişli, Üsküdar, and all Istanbul districts from a master's perspective and share what we say "don't do this."
Mistake 1: Load-Bearing Wall Demolition (MOST CRITICAL MISTAKE!)
Load-bearing wall demolition is the most dangerous and costly mistake made during renovation.
Consequences of the Mistake
- Structural Damage: Damages the building's load-bearing system
- Safety Risks: Increases earthquake risk
- Costly Repairs: Requires structural reinforcement (100,000 - 500,000 TL)
- Legal Issues: Problems with building management and municipality
Master's Note
Load-bearing wall demolition should never be done! The building's project must be examined to identify load-bearing walls. If there is no project, the load-bearing system should be identified with material tests (concrete test hammer).
Correct Approach
- Building's project is examined
- Load-bearing system is identified
- Only partition walls are demolished
Mistake 2: Wrong Plumbing Material Selection
Wrong plumbing material selection leads to major problems in the future.
Wrong Application
- Using old zinc pipes: Corrodes after 40-50 years
- Insufficient drain diameter: Causes clogs
- Low-quality fixtures: Break down quickly
Correct Approach
- PPRC pipes: Corrosion-resistant, 50+ years lifespan
- Correct drain diameter: Sink 40 mm, toilet 110 mm
- Premium fixtures: Brands like Grohe, Hansgrohe
Mistake 3: Missing or Wrong Insulation
Missing or wrong insulation leads to energy loss and moisture problems.
Wrong Application
- Insufficient bathroom insulation: Water leakage risk
- Not doing exterior facade insulation: Energy loss
- Wrong insulation material: Performance decrease
Correct Approach
- Bathroom insulation: Polyester felt-reinforced bitumen membrane
- Exterior facade insulation: XPS foam (8-10 cm)
- Correct material selection: Suitable for climate conditions
Mistake 4: Wrong Payment Plan
Wrong payment plan leads to disputes.
Wrong Application
- High advance payment (50%+): Increases company risk
- Low final payment (5-10%): Company may leave work unfinished
- Dated check: Risky payment method
Correct Approach
- Advance payment: 10-15%
- Final payment: 15-20%
- Payment method: Cash or bank transfer
Master's Note
In the payment plan, the final payment must be between 15-20%. Low final payment increases the risk of the company leaving work unfinished.
Mistake 5: Vague Expressions in Contract
Vague expressions in contract lead to disputes.
Wrong Expressions
- "Quality material"
- "Good workmanship"
- "Modern design"
Correct Expressions
- "X brand Y model ceramic, 60x60 cm, porcelain"
- "Workmanship compliant with TS EN standards"
- "Minimalist design, white color palette"
Mistake 6: Not Renewing Electrical Installation
Old electrical installation creates safety risks.
Wrong Application
- Using old electrical installation
- Absence of grounded outlet system
- Insufficient electrical panel capacity
Correct Approach
- Renewal of electrical installation
- Grounded outlet system
- 3-phase system and leakage current relay
Mistake 7: Compromising Material Quality
Compromising material quality leads to problems in a short time.
Wrong Application
- Cheap material selection
- Unbranded products
- Non-standard materials
Correct Approach
- Mid-upper segment materials
- Known brands
- Materials compliant with TS/EN standards
Master's Note
Compromising material quality provides savings in the first years but requires re-renovation within 3-5 years. Total cost becomes higher than using quality materials.
Mistake 8: Lack of Coordination with Building Management
Lack of coordination with building management leads to problems.
Wrong Application
- Not getting permission from building management
- Not complying with working hours
- Not informing neighbors
Correct Approach
- Getting written permission from building management
- Complying with working hours
- Informing neighbors
Mistake 9: Lack of Time Planning
Lack of time planning leads to delays.
Wrong Application
- No detailed timeline
- Delay in material supply
- Workflow not optimized
Correct Approach
- Detailed timeline
- Material supply planned in advance
- Parallel workflows
Mistake 10: Not Clarifying Warranty Conditions
Not clarifying warranty conditions leads to disputes.
Wrong Application
- General expressions like "All work is under warranty"
- Warranty period not specified
- Warranty scope not clarified
Correct Approach
- Warranty periods by work category
- Clarification of warranty scope
- Warranty conditions in writing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most critical mistake?
Load-bearing wall demolition is the most critical mistake. It leads to structural damage and safety risks.
Which mistakes are costly?
Load-bearing wall demolition, wrong plumbing material selection, and missing insulation are the most costly mistakes.
How can I prevent mistakes?
Work with a professional renovation company, make a detailed contract, and clarify all details at the discovery stage.
Conclusion: Get Professional Support
Mistakes made during renovation lead to costly repairs and disappointment. We offer mistake-free renovation services with our 20 years of experience in Kadıköy, Bakırköy, Beşiktaş, Şişli, Üsküdar, and all Istanbul districts.
By booking a free site visit appointment, you can get detailed analysis and mistake prevention strategies for your project. Free Architectural Site Visit Line: 0501 022 33 75
