Preparing for Your Home Remodel
The plans are drawn up. The budget is set. Your contractors are scheduled.
Now what?
Time to prepare for the inevitable inconveniences that come with any remodeling project. The more prepared you are for those inconveniences, the smoother the remodeling project will go for you and your family. There are several things to keep in mind:
Access
Determine what you will need during the remodel — and pack the rest away. For example, if you are remodeling the kitchen/dining area, do you need a full set of dishes during this time? How about just saving out one place setting for each family member? Do you have a good place for the all-important coffee maker? If your bathrooms are being remodeled, what about a membership to a local gym in order to have a place to shower.
Storage
Set aside a room, such as a guest room or the basement, to store everything that is normally in the room(s) being renovated. Now is the perfect time to go through your things and get rid of anything that won’t be going back into the renovated room. Also, consider a storage unit for things you will not need access to during the renovation (such as seasonal items).
Privacy
Contractors will be coming in and out of your house constantly. Be prepared for interruptions to your regular schedule. They may be working when you normally sit down to eat or relax. Be flexible in where and when you spend your time. Also, they may be in your house when you are. If that makes you uncomfortable, set up a room on the other side of the house as your living space during that time.
Pets
Remodeling and construction noises can be very stressful for pets. And the last thing you want, is for a pet to escape out an open door. If pets will be left alone during the day, set up a separate room for them. Or consider boarding them during the day.
Dust
There will be dust. Lots and lots of dust. Everywhere. A few ways to limit dust exposure:
Roll up your area rugs and store them off site
Attach plastic sheeting to the front of open shelving units to prevent dust build up on the shelves and items
Cover furniture with fitted sheets
Keep doors closed – and put towels within the openings underneath the doors
With some prep work before the remodel starts, you can save yourself and your family a bit of stress during the remodel.
Happy remodeling.
