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Watching HGTV can excite anyone about a home remodel, but it is not as easy as they make it out to be. Once the renovation starts, certain things take place. The things you were used to doing suddenly require some creative thinking, such as cooking or even getting everyone ready in the morning. While a renovation can be a little disruptive to our daily routine, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Here, we share a few things about what to expect during a home remodel and how to navigate with ease.
Home Remodel Means More Dirt.
From Sheetrock to sawdust to increased foot traffic, dirt and dust are one thing you can count on seeing more of during the renovation. If you enjoy a tidy house, be prepared to look the other way. Here are some things that might help keep your home livable during this process:
- Hanging some heavy-duty plastic sheets will hinder dust from floating all over the home.
- Make sure to have your vacuum handy so people can quickly dust off or clean up as needed.
- Have a designated area where people can dust off before entering a non-construction home area.
- Keep after it. Don’t wait until the end to clean everything. Try to do a little maintenance during the renovation. This will make the final clean-up less overwhelming.
While there is no way to contain all the dirt and dust in the home, keeping it under control and making it easier to breathe as your home is renovated is possible. We also recommend speaking with your contractor, as they may have a few additional suggestions. Check out these five helpful tips to help minimize dust spreading throughout the home.
Increase In Noise
Those with children may say they are used to noise, but may not be prepared for this level. Hammering, drilling, and pounding are just a few of the sounds that will interrupt your regular routine. While some families can relocate for the duration of their remodel, this is not always possible for everyone. Here are a few helpful tips to handle the increase in noise:
- Schedule the construction during your time at work so you won’t have to deal with it while at home. If you work from home, consider spending a few hours at a local cafe with reliable internet.
- Send the kids to the grandparents. Little ones have less tolerance than adults, as their hearing is more sensitive than ours. Placing them in a comfortable environment with family can ease their stress.
- Step away. If you were planning a vacation, this would be the perfect time to do it. Another great option is to take the day off and do something fun with the family, like going to the local park or zoo.
Whether it is you or the children, an increase in noise can be a disturbance, but thankfully, it won’t last long, and if planned right, many of the interruptions can be limited during your home remodel.
Shift In Plans
Even the best-laid plans may need to be adjusted due to unforeseen issues. It is important to be flexible. Remember that your designer knows your budget and will make sure that you stay on target, but when they come to you with a problem, know that they would not mention it if it were not necessary. Often, they will have a plan in place to deal with it, so be sure to hear them out. Read more about how to navigate a home remodel here.
Home Remodel Survival Tips
Home renovations are not meant to stress you out, and having a plan in place and being mentally prepared can make a big difference in how they go. Here are some of our best survival tips to help you prepare for and get through your home renovation.
- Be prepared for what will happen. Your home will not be the same for some time, which means little adjustments to your normal routines are to be expected.
- Know where you will move the furniture and additional belongings. If an area of the home is under construction, the contents will likely need to be removed. Having a moving plan beforehand means a smooth transition into the renovation.
- Remember the pets. Your sweet fur babies won’t understand why the home is being torn apart, but giving them extra love and keeping their routines, like feeding times and walks, as much as possible will help them feel secure.
- It is okay to eat out. Sometimes we feel bad if we eat out several times a week, but when you are in the middle of a renovation, that is perfectly normal, even if your kitchen isn’t being done. Taking a break from the mess and going somewhere else can be refreshing for everyone.
- Get adequate rest. Since more is happening at your home, it is essential to get enough sleep. A good night’s rest will help you make the best decisions.
Having your home renovated is not always an easy transition, but with a good plan in place and preparation, it is possible to go through with little stress. View one of our clients’ renovations to see how much the renovation was worth it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or spend some time doing research online for more helpful tips, like this guide for first-time renovators.
Will kitchen islands go out of style? The answer is no. The kitchen island is often the focal point in the kitchen and one of the most sought-after features in a kitchen renovation; in fact, it is one of the most versatile areas in the kitchen. Need a place to do some homework? How about a family dinner or brunch? Looking for a surface where you can spread out when cooking? Some extra storage for large pots and mixers would be nice, too. All of this and more can be accomplished with a kitchen island; some might even call it a mini kitchen within the kitchen. This flexible workstation can be created to reflect any style, accommodate any size, and suit any need. Today, we want to answer some common questions about the kitchen island, explore the benefits, and explain why it will never go out of style.
As the COVID-19 pandemic slowly comes to an end, you may be ready to update your home and make a few changes. Perhaps being stuck inside during lockdowns gave you time to identify areas that needed cleaning, upgrading, or other home improvements. If you want to start rebuilding your house but aren’t sure how to get started, see how these tips can help, brought to you courtesy of Greenbrook Design.
Walker Woodworking When space is limited, it is valuable and greater thought is invested in creating a design that maximizes square footage to provide a functional space for the homeowner. Both manufacturers and designers alike are continuously thinking of new ways to give their clients the things they need, but using less space. One such item is the Murphy bed, yes, the one used in multiple comedy routines, but it has evolved into a stylish piece, yet remains as functional as ever. It is also comparable in price point to a traditional bed. Could the Murphy bed be the solution to your limited space problem? Let’s unpack exactly what it is and how it can help give you additional room in your home.
Walker Woodworking What to do when you don’t have the luxury of square footage? How can you create storage when there is not a lot of room, to begin with? Can you make small spaces work for you? These are good questions that we have helped our clients answer numerous times. While it may present more challenges than a larger home, it is possible to have the necessary storage for you to keep everything you need on hand. Small is not bad; in fact, it comes with multiple benefits, and a good design can help you maximize the space you do have to build a home that is exactly right for you. Let’s talk about some creative storage solutions for small spaces.
Walker Woodworking We always say details matter, and that goes beyond a project. Your home is filled with details that tell your guests who you are and what matters to you. Artwork, pottery pieces, and furniture are just a few things that give homeowners a chance to show off their style. Another area is hosting, and tablescapes have become a beautiful, fun way to share your own unique design choices with family and friends. Whether it is for a small gathering to enjoy time with those you love or to celebrate a special occasion, there are many ways to create the perfect look. By combining different colors, patterns, or materials, you can create a tablescape that will dazzle your guests, whether you prefer an elaborate or simple design.
