When it comes to renovating the entire home, the work typically encompasses changes to the interior and exterior. This type of project often touches on the home’s main areas – kitchen, bathrooms, and other living areas, along with windows, doors, and other outside elements.
The Dimension Design-Build-Remodel, Inc. teams has the experience and ability to complete large-scale projects, managing the scope of work to accommodate our clients and fulfill their objectives.
To ensure a positive experience during a home renovation, some preparation is necessary for your home and your family. We suggest the following when preparing for a major home remodel.
First, take before photos, then, start packing things up. Homeowners will need to completely empty the areas of the home that are being remodeled and decide where everything will go. It may be necessary to obtain a storage unit for furniture and larger household items. Separate what you’re going to need on a daily basis from the items that can be boxed up and put into storage. This is a great time to declutter and get rid of what you don’t need, so you can start fresh in your newly remodeled space. Make sure anything precious or fragile is put in a safe place.
There could be periods of time where you don’t have access to the kitchen or bathroom. As you think about the amount of work that will be done, you’ll need to consider your living options. Is moving out of your home for a short time an option? Staying elsewhere would be the best plan if serious hazards like lead paint or mold are involved, or if anyone in your family has health concerns such as asthma.
If your family is staying in the home throughout the renovation, some mental preparation is important. There will be dirt. There will be noise. There could be periods without water or power. There may be some unplanned problems that bring added stress. The right contractor will help you through this and keep the project on track.
The upheaval of the renovation may be especially hard on children. Change is upsetting, even if they seem interested and excited. Communication is important here, too. Describe the process before it starts and focus on the positive result that’s coming rather than the destruction. Be very clear about which areas are off limits for their safety. If it’s necessary to set up a different sleeping, bathing, or homework area for the kids, try to turn it into an adventure, and remind them that the change is temporary.
Preparing for a major home remodel includes arranging a safe place for your pets. If they are easily stressed, it may be simplest to have pets stay with a relative or give them an occasional stay at a doggy day care when major work is happening. If dogs will be staying home, minimize barking by letting them become familiar with the workers beforehand. Pets will be safest in a closed room or fenced yard a safe distance from the construction. For normalcy, keep walks and feedings as close to the usual time as possible.
Discuss with your contractor the best ways to keep kids and pets safe from dangerous tools, hazardous fumes, and more. If you always know the next step, you can prepare accordingly, and have a positive renovation experience.