The Top Remodeling Mistakes Louisiana Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Home remodeling in South Louisiana comes with its own set of challenges — humidity, flooding, termites, raised foundations, and historic materials make our homes very different from those in other states. Unfortunately, many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that cost them time, money, and long-term durability.

At Cajun Conservation, we’ve seen every remodeling mistake imaginable — especially in older Cajun, Creole, and mid-century homes. Here are the top remodeling mistakes Louisiana homeowners make and how to avoid them so your project is done right the first time.

1. Hiring Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors

This is the most expensive mistake homeowners make.

Why It’s a Problem:

• No protection if something goes wrong

• Voids insurance claims

• Leads to sloppy or unsafe work

• Creates legal and financial risk

Louisiana requires remodelers to carry:

• A Home Improvement License

• General Liability Insurance

• Workers’ Compensation (if employees)

💡 Pro Tip: If a contractor offers a “cash deal,” run.

2. Ignoring Foundation or Structural Issues

Many homeowners want to jump straight into the “pretty” part of remodeling — paint, trim, tile, and finishes.

But in Louisiana:

• Raised foundations settle

• Beams rot

• Termites weaken support structures

• Floors become uneven

Ignoring these issues causes:

• cracked drywall

• warped floors

• shifting cabinetry

• repeated repairs

The Fix:

Address foundation and structural concerns before cosmetic work.

3. Not Accounting for Louisiana’s Humidity

Humidity destroys the wrong materials.

Common Failures:

• peeling paint

• cabinet swelling

• mold behind walls

• warped flooring

The Fix:

Use moisture-resistant materials such as:

• fiber cement (Hardie) siding

• treated lumber

• porcelain tile

• oil-based or moisture-blocking primers

• dehumidifier-integrated HVAC

4. Choosing the Wrong Materials for Historic Homes

Many remodels damage original Cajun or Creole architecture, such as:

• covering shiplap with drywall

• removing beadboard ceilings

• replacing real wood with cheap composites

• mismatching trim styles

The Fix:

Work with a contractor who understands Cajun-French and Acadian architecture and can restore original materials.

5. Cutting Corners on Waterproofing

Water is your home’s #1 enemy in South Louisiana.

Most Common Waterproofing Mistakes:

• skipping waterproof backer boards in showers

• using cheap caulk

• incorrect flashing around windows

• failing to seal tile properly

A small leak becomes a BIG problem fast — especially in raised homes.

6. DIY Electrical or Plumbing Work

Homes built before the 1980s often have:

• knob-and-tube wiring

• aluminum wiring

• cast iron pipes

• undersized breakers

DIY work often leads to:

• fire hazards

• leaks

• code violations

• costly future repairs

The Fix:

Let licensed electricians and plumbers handle it.

7. Poor Planning or Rushing the Job

Rushed remodels often end in:

• bad finishes

• incorrect measurements

• paint failures

• tile lippage

• last-minute material changes

The Fix:

Invest time in planning:

• material selections

• layout decisions

• electrical + plumbing

• cabinet spacing

• lighting placement

A well-planned remodel always performs better.

8. Not Considering Resale Value

Many homeowners choose trendy styles that don’t fit Cajun or Acadian homes.

Watch out for:

• ultra-modern finishes in historic homes

• low-end materials in high-end neighborhoods

• removing essential architectural charm

The Fix:

Choose timeless, authentic styles, especially for:

• kitchens

• bathrooms

• porches

• exterior details

These add long-term value.

9. Forgetting About Proper Ventilation

Poor ventilation causes:

• mold

• odors

• peeling paint

• attic moisture

• uncomfortable homes

The Fix:

Ensure proper:

• exhaust fans

• attic ventilation

• crawlspace airflow

• HVAC sizing

10. Hiring the Cheapest Contractor

Cheap bids are always cheap for a reason.They usually signal:

• unskilled labor

• poor materials

• no insurance

• future change orders

• rushed work

The Fix:

Choose a contractor based on skill, communication, and integrity, not price alone.

FAQs: Avoiding Remodeling Mistakes in Louisiana

Q: What’s the most expensive mistake homeowners make?Ignoring foundation issues until AFTER remodeling.

Q: How do I know if a contractor is reputable?Check license, insurance, photo portfolio, and customer reviews.

Q: Should I expect surprises in older Louisiana homes?Yes — always budget a little extra for hidden issues.

Why Cajun Conservation Helps Homeowners Avoid These Mistakes

We remodel homes with Louisiana’s climate, culture, and craftsmanship in mind. Homeowners choose us because we prioritize:

✔️ Correct materials for Louisiana weather✔️ Structural integrity before finishes✔️ Authentic Cajun-French architectural style✔️ Clear communication and transparency✔️ Licensed, insured service

We don’t cut corners — we protect your home’s history and future.

Ready to Remodel Your Home the Right Way?

If you're planning a remodel in Acadiana, Cajun Conservation ensures the job is done correctly from the very first step.

👉 Schedule your free consultation today, and avoid the costly mistakes most homeowners never see coming.