You’ve done detailed research, drawn up plans with your contractor, set your budget and established a timeline. But as the start date for your remodel looms, you are still probably nervous.
Any remodel, minor or extensive, is going to be disruptive for you and your family regardless of the planning and the anticipation. Your careful planning will help in avoiding unexpected challenges or budget issues, but there are some additional steps you can take to prepare your home and your family for the inconvenience of home construction.
Consider the following steps to help ease remodeling pains so you avoid the temptation to move out when your remodelers move in!
The timeline – Before setting a firm timeline with your contractor, consider family routines and events, including your kids’ activities. Work with your contractor to establish a schedule that works with these important factors but understand that adjustments may be needed because of unforeseen issues or weather conditions.
Your pets – Depending on the nature of your remodel, you may want to consider boarding your pet with a neighbor or a kennel. Open doors, power tools, or the simple matter of strangers in the house can be traumatic and possibly dangerous for pets. A set solution for your pet reduces stress for all.
Remove precious/valuable items – Breakable items, family heirlooms, cash, jewelry, and medications all are best carefully packed, locked away or removed from your home. Your contractor is a professional and someone you can trust, but accidents can happen, and misunderstandings
are best avoided.
Furniture in the work area – It’s best to remove furniture and wall hangings from the work area yourself and store them in a garage, basement or offsite to keep your home as open as possible. If you need help removing or protecting large items, your contractor may be able to advise you. Remodeling will create a lot of dust throughout your home, so speak to your contractor about protection for vulnerable items in other areas of your home.
Workers’ routines – Discuss the needs of the workers, including food and washroom access, with your contractor before your remodel begins. For large projects, contractors may arrange for a portable toilet on site, but ultimately it will be up to you whether you make a guest bathroom available to them. Workers typically will be on their own for food breaks.
Communication is key – Establish a communication plan with your contractor before your remodel begins. You are probably not the only job your contractor is attending to, so setting expectations on communication ahead of time will help you avoid confusion or misunderstandings about your project.
We suggest making a checklist using the above guidelines to ensure you don’t miss anything. Review your checklist the day before your contractor is set to begin and you can relax knowing you are ready for your remodel. Contact the pros at Precision for a quality, efficient remodel you can be proud of.