Remodeling your home is an exciting journey towards creating a space that perfectly suits your needs. While the thought of renovating can be exhilarating, it often raises a crucial question: Can I stay in my home while the work is being done?
In short, the answer is YES, and with the right preparation and contractor, you can better navigate the process and experience less disruption to your daily life. Remaining at home throughout the remodeling process is a viable option and a choice many of our clients make. While remodels do cause some inconveniences to your daily routine, most people feel more comfortable in their own homes. And, some people like to keep an eye on project progress.
With that said, complex projects can make it more complicated to stay in your home. Furthermore, some clients are much happier relocating for the duration of the project to limit the inconvenience posed by a remodel—and have the means to do so.
If you are leaning towards staying in your home amidst a remodel, know that the reality can translate to some “roughing-it” type scenarios. You may have to enter and exit your home in different ways throughout the project, and there may be periods of time without access to water or electricity. You may also be living with plastic walls and doorways and a certain level of dust. Another important consideration is how staying in your home may impact the remodeling timeline and costs. Creating habitable conditions and working around this living environment requires additional logistics to ensure your protection, which can extend the project duration and add to the budget.
However, one of the priorities of a good general contractor should be making the remodeling process as smooth as possible while you remain in your home. Contractors regularly help homeowners navigate the ups and downs of renovations, so they have the expertise and valuable tips to guide you. Here are some insights on how to prepare for this scenario and ensure your home remains functional and comfortable:
Create a Dedicated Living Space: Work with your contractor to identify which areas of your home will be under construction or used as staging areas, and which will remain untouched. The goal is to keep your essential living spaces functional. Many remodelers can help transform parts of your home by advising on how to rearrange furniture to optimize a room or creating a "temporary living zone" where you can relax away from the construction noise and dust. This might include setting up a temporary kitchen, maintaining a working bathroom, or creating a relaxing bedroom or lounging space.
Protect Your Belongings: Before the remodel begins, it's important to ensure your belongings are protected from dust and damage. A good contractor will provide guidance on which areas need to be sealed and how to best safeguard your belongings throughout the project. During a pre-construction walk-through, your contractor will assist with this process. They will cover furniture, seal off rooms not being renovated, and help with relocating larger items that might be in the way. For smaller items, you may want to designate a room that will remain unaffected by the renovation as a temporary storage space. A good contractor can also help coordinate additional services, such as recommending or hiring movers and reliable storage facilities to relocate furniture. In addition, they can share effective packing strategies to ensure your belongings are safely stored and easily accessible.
Plan for Dust and Debris: Remodeling can generate a lot of particles on surfaces and in the air. Discuss your contractor’s plans for containment so you understand the barriers being installed to manage the mess. Many contractors will use heavy-duty plastic zip walls and HEPA air filters to minimize the impact on your living spaces. The right contractor will keep their workspace as organized and tidy as possible, making every effort to clean up regularly. While it might not be spotless—after all, it’s a construction zone—the goal is to maintain as much order and cleanliness as possible.
Maintain Open Communication: Clear communication with your contractor is essential for a smooth remodeling experience. Make sure to discuss your daily routines, specific needs, and any concerns about living in the home during the project – this includes your pets as well! For instance, inform your contractor of your garbage collection days so they avoid blocking access points. A proactive contractor will keep you informed about progress, address any issues promptly, and adjust plans as necessary to accommodate your living situation.
“We have used Kraft Custom Construction for two major remodeling projects and are completely pleased with not only the end product but the process as well,” says satisfied client, Roger B. “Our first project was the remodel of two bathrooms and one powder room. The project was completed ahead of schedule and on budget. In addition, Kraft created temporary quarters for our bedroom, located in our living room, which worked very well, and they even moved our furniture.”
Embrace the Adventure
Whether you choose to stay in your home or find a temporary place to go, remember that remodeling is an adventure toward your dream living space. With the support of the right contractor and thoughtful preparation, you can make an informed decision about whether to stay or go. They will help you evaluate the pros and cons, including the timeline and cost implications, and help with resources such as a reliable moving company. If you choose to stay in your home during the remodeling project, the right contractor will help you navigate the process smoothly.
At Kraft Custom Construction, we’re dedicated to delivering a positive remodeling experience. Our expertise and commitment to client satisfaction ensure that the journey is as stress-free as possible, guiding you every step of the way to the successful transformation of your home. Contact us today to get started!
