Living Through a Home Remodel: Tips for Managing Day-to-Day Life

Undertaking a home remodel can be disruptive to your daily routines and living conditions. However, with thoughtful preparation and organization, you can minimize the stress and maintain a semblance of normalcy. Here are some essential tips to help you live comfortably through your home remodeling project.

1. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen

  • Importance: If your kitchen is being remodeled, setting up a temporary kitchen can help maintain meal routines.
  • Tips: Equip it with essentials like a microwave, toaster oven, a small refrigerator, and a coffee maker. Use disposable utensils to reduce the need for washing dishes.

2. Designate Safe and Clean Living Areas

  • Keep Dust Down: Seal off construction areas with plastic sheeting to prevent dust from spreading.
  • Comfortable Spaces: Arrange furniture and amenities in rooms not under construction to create comfortable areas where family members can relax.

3. Maintain a Routine

  • Daily Schedule: Try to keep your family’s daily routine as normal as possible. This includes meal times, school work, and bedtime routines.
  • Pets: Consider the needs of pets; they may require a quiet place away from the noise and chaos.

4. Plan for Noise

  • Expect Disruption: Construction can be noisy. Plan for the most disruptive work to be done while family members are out of the house.
  • Noise-Canceling: Use noise-canceling headphones or plan activities outside the home to escape the noise when necessary.

5. Manage Dust and Debris

  • Regular Cleaning: Even with dust barriers, some dust will find its way into your living spaces. Vacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
  • Air Quality: Use air purifiers to help keep the air clean in inhabited parts of your home.

6. Secure Your Valuables

  • Protection: Store valuables and fragile items away from the construction area. This includes jewelry, art, and electronic devices that could be damaged by dust or accidental impacts.

7. Communicate Regularly with Your Contractor

  • Updates and Issues: Regular communication can help ensure the project stays on track and adjustments are made as needed.
  • Feedback: Promptly addressing any concerns with your contractor can reduce stress and make the remodeling process smoother.

Conclusion: Living through a home remodel isn’t easy, but it’s often worth the temporary inconvenience for the improvements made to your living space. By preparing effectively and maintaining open lines of communication with your contractor, you can navigate the challenges of a remodel with minimal stress. Remember, the end result will be a newly transformed home that matches your vision.