Home renovations can be exciting but, let’s face it, they can also make you want to pull your hair out. The thought of dust everywhere, constant noise, and random workers traipsing through your home is enough to stress anyone out. But it does not have to be that way. With some planning and a bit of patience, you can stay stress-free throughout the whole process.
First, make sure you have a clear plan. Know exactly what needs to be done and work with your contractor to figure out a realistic timeline. This will help keep any unexpected surprises—like a three-week delay to install a countertop—from throwing you off. It is also smart to have a backup plan in place. For example, if your kitchen is out of commission for a while, think about how you are going to make meals. You might need to embrace the slow cooker life for a bit.
Second, it helps to set some boundaries with the workers. Let them know when they can start and when they need to wrap things up for the day. Also, make sure they know which parts of the house are off-limits. A little structure goes a long way in keeping things running smoothly.
And finally, remember: this mess is temporary! Sure, it might look like a tornado blew through your house for a few weeks, but soon you will be basking in your beautifully renovated space. When the noise gets to you, just remind yourself that your home is getting a much-needed upgrade.
Quickest Types of Home Renovations
Not every home renovation has to drag on for months. Some projects can be knocked out in a matter of days, letting you enjoy the changes without too much hassle.
Take painting, for example. It is one of the quickest ways to give a room an entirely new look. In fact, if you are feeling ambitious, you could get a whole room painted in just one weekend. Grab a roller, throw on some music, and watch that old, dull color disappear.
Another fast renovation is swapping out fixtures or hardware. Something as simple as upgrading your bathroom faucets or replacing those dated cabinet handles can take only a few hours, but it makes a world of difference.
Then there is flooring. Installing new vinyl plank flooring or replacing old carpets might sound like a big job, but it can often be done in just a few days. Even in larger rooms, it is a fairly quick process—especially when compared to other projects that can drag on for weeks.
Preparing Your Family for the Reno/Remodel
Home renovations do not just affect you; they affect the whole family. That is why it is important to get everyone on board before the chaos begins.
Start by having a family meeting. Explain what is about to go down, how long it will take, and what areas of the house will be off-limits. If the kitchen is getting redone, you might want to create a temporary kitchen in another room where everyone can still grab a snack or make a simple meal.
Also, do not forget to plan some time out of the house. Whether it is a weekend with the grandparents or just spending afternoons at the park, giving everyone a break from the construction zone will help keep the peace.
Lastly, make sure to pack away things you will not need during the renovation. This will help reduce clutter and protect your belongings from the inevitable dust storm that is coming.