Make a Plan
When it comes to starting a large or even small renovation, it is very important to have a plan. Before you even sit down with your contractor or designer, make sure you know what kind of project you are taking on. Set a budget that makes sense for you, and also keep in mind that a little wiggle room may be needed. Renovations can take longer than you expect so having a realistic and somewhat flexible timeline can save you a ton of stress.
Once you have a rough plan in place, sitting down with your designer and contractor is your next step. Walking through your project and pointing out as many details as possible will make things easier for you and the trades completing the work. Your Designer and Contractor will be able to point out any additional repairs and upgrades that may be needed and provide you with a realistic timeline.
For example, your contractor and designer are going to be up to date on product availability and how long it may take for certain items to arrive. When it comes to choosing flooring, colors, lighting, hardware, plumbing, or appliances, your designer is going to be a great asset!
Avoid Living in Your Renovation
When starting a renovation of any kind, it is crucial to remember that this can be a huge inconvenience. If at all possible, try to avoid living in your renovation.
Reno’s are dirty, and the constant disruption from your project trades can make this experience a stressful one. If you have to stay, we suggest packing up all items that don’t have a current use. Tarp and tape off certain rooms, and make sure to cover your floors to keep damage to a minimum.
Work with you designer and trades people so that everyone is on the same page. Trades will generally be more than willing to do everything they can to keep the renovation running smoothly, and this includes cleaning up after themselves.
Have Flexibility
One of the most important tips we could give is a reminder to stay flexible. Renovations generally uncover more than one issue as things progress. Whether it is unseen damage, outdated plumbing, or electrical difficulties, these are things that need to be expected.
Other things like product availability and trade scheduling are all things that can’t always be done at the snap of a finger. Being flexible and keeping these things in mind will allow for a less stressful project for yourself and your designer.
Decision Making
This is a BIG one! When it comes to updating your home, there are many decisions that need to be made quickly. This can be frustrating but it is also the reality. In the current market, products and service are not quite as readily available as they were a few years ago. Making spur of the moment decisions are all part of a renovation, but STAY POSITIVE, there may be changes along the way but be assured the project will be completed beautifully in the end!
Children and Pets
Sometimes renovations can be frustrating for children, and our pets can’t figure out why certain areas in their house are now off limits. Although this may be tricky, it is extremely important that the construction zone stays off limits. This is for the safety of pets and children as well as the organization of your project.
Remember this is a temporary situation, take photos along the way to remind yourself of the progress, it will help your see how far you’ve come. Most importantly, don’t forget that there is an end date to all of this! Before you know it this will all be a memory, and you will be happily living in your updated home!