When considering a home renovation, the main focus is usually on the end result. It’s easy to get swept up in the daydreams of custom cabinets, sleek and modern countertops, or new and improved floor plan you’ve always wanted. However, the home renovation process is dirty, noisy, disruptive, and occasionally a little stressful. After all, remodeling involves the demolition of parts of your home that once seemed permanent. With careful planning, it is possible to survive the chaos while maintaining both your routine and sanity. Here are 5 tips to help you survive a major home renovation.
1. Mentally Prepare Yourself
You’ve secured the home renovation loan, selected the flooring, and hired the contractors – you’re ready to get the home renovation party started. But before the residential demolition and construction teams arrive, take some time to prepare yourself mentally. Depending on the size of the project, the process could take anywhere from one week to several months. Remind yourself upfront that a renovation will cause some inconvenience and may cut into your everyday routine. Your home will be full of contractors you don’t know (who will probably become great friends by the time the project is over) and may even be unrecognizable at some point due to the noise and mess. Adopting an “eyes-on-the-prize” mindset will help you get through the renovation as it goes on. Make a habit of taking photos at various stages of construction to keep yourself excited about the final product. It will all be worth it!
2. Designate an Alternative Living Space
To avoid the chaos of living in a home under construction, many homeowners choose to temporarily move their families to a hotel or friends’ home. However, this isn’t an option for everyone. If you will be staying at home for the entire duration of the renovation, designating alternative living and working areas is extremely important to maintaining some sense of normalcy and function. For example, if you are undergoing a kitchen remodel, you won’t be able to use your stove, refrigerator, sink, or dishwasher. Create a makeshift “kitchen” elsewhere in the house. Whether that means balancing a microwave on your nightstand or washing your dishes in the bathtub, find an arrangement that works for you and your family.
3. Maintain Good Ventilation
Even during the mayhem that is home renovation, your family’s health and safety should be your #1 priority. As the residential demolition and construction teams work on your dream space, dust, debris, and dangerous fumes will fill the air. To avoid allergies and other harmful reactions, air out your home daily by opening doors and windows when weather permits. You can also rent or purchase an industrial fan to promote air circulation.
4. Don’t be Afraid to Hire Professional Help
Thanks to the recent popularity of Pinterest how-to’s and home renovation shows like HGTV’s Fixer Upper, many homeowners bravely choose to take on remodeling projects themselves. While it is certainly doable, do not shy away from hiring professional help when you need it – especially when it comes to things like interior demolition. A professional contractor will help you stay on the right track by avoiding accidents, damage to other parts of your home, and unnecessary additional costs that may result in doing it yourself.
5. Spend Some Time Out of the House
One of the key tips to surviving home remodeling is taking a break away from it all. Spending too much time at home while the project is underway will create unnecessary stress and frustration, possibly even putting tension between family members. Even if you don’t have the option of an alternative living arrangement for the entire project, try to spend at least a day or two away at a hotel or family member’s home. Everyone could use a fun and relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy more time outdoors, as the fresh air will leave your family renewed, energized, and connected.
Although a home renovation project is a major undertaking that can derail your daily routine and cause some inconvenience, it is possible to get through it with your sanity intact. With some planning, patience and professional demolition help, you can keep your stress levels at a minimum and maybe even enjoy the process of creating your beautiful new space. Remember… eyes on the prize!