There’s no doubt that remodeling can disrupt the household…no matter what size the remodel. If moving out isn’t a necessity or an option during your remodel, there are manageable ways to mitigate the impact the remodel can have on your family. Consider these six methods:
Plan Ahead
Work with your design/build remodeler to develop a strategic plan. There are lots of little details and decisions, so open and honest communication is definitely the key to making it all come together. Knowing what to expect is also part of the planning process. Since your remodeler has worked in clients’ homes hundreds (if not more) times, they have helpful hints to managing the coordination. Let them help you plan alternative strategies to using your family rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen during the remodeling process.
Create New Storage/Access Areas
You will likely need to remove everything from spaces that are being remodeled, but you may still need the items stored in those rooms…like kitchen appliances, food, entertainment or bathroom supplies. Allocate temporary areas in your home where these items can be safely stored yet still accessible when needed. This can be a great time to get rid of or donate items you no longer need or use.
Related: Live In or Move Out: The Remodeling Dilemma
Designate Living Spaces
Clearly identify the spaces where you will be functioning during your remodel. Set up a family and entertainment area away from the remodeling area and don’t be afraid to use rooms not traditionally set up for these purposes. Make a spare bedroom a kitchen/dining space with a microwave oven and table, for example. Remember, it’s temporary—and it can be fun to try something new.
Think about noise and dust. You may want to relocate beds to quieter walls or other rooms, or have kids bunk in together to save space.
Consider Pets, Kids and Older Family Members
While the change in your lifestyle may be easier for you, it may be stressful for your family pets, children or older members of your family. Set up access points for remodeling workers that isolate them from the rest of the home. Create play areas for kids and stock them with toys, games and electronics. Have a quiet sitting area for elderly members. Erect barriers to protect pets.
Kitchen Renovation Strategies
Since your home has only one kitchen, remodeling this area may be the biggest disruption to your family’s lifestyle. Plan ahead by filling the temporary pantry with items that don’t require extensive cooking, or with nonperishable foods. Stock up on disposable plates, utensils and cups. Purchase or borrow cooking equipment like a mini fridge, hot plate, microwave, or electric skillet to help prepare meals. Or indulge yourself with take-out meals as part of the adventure. If the weather’s nice enough, use the outdoor areas as your grilling and eating areas.
Bathroom Renovation Strategies
Other than the kitchen, temporarily losing one or more bathrooms to remodeling can create the most disruption. Address this by scheduling one bathroom renovation at a time if possible. Create areas outside the bathroom where functions like hair drying and styling or makeup application can be done. Give each family member a tote or caddy where their personal items can be consolidated and transported easily. Set up shower schedules to help everyone get ready in the morning. Shower at the gym.
Minimal Disruption During Your Remodel
Your design/build remodeler understands that your lifestyle will not be the same during your remodel and will do their part by trying to contain the noise, dust and disruption as much as possible. Expect vinyl barriers and safety protocols that help protect both you and the workers.
Related: Tips and Tricks for a Safe Renovation
It’s Worth It
Remember that all throughout the noise, dust, endless stream of workers and decisions of your remodel that the end product is worth it. It’s merely an uncomfortable and inconvenient process to the desired result that does have a thrilling conclusion. Kind of like childbirth! Use this time to make the transitional changes fun.
Northern Virginia Remodeling by Schroeder Design/Build
In 2021, Schroeder Design/Build reached the milestone of serving our 1000th client and would love to work with you to remodel the home of your dreams. We thrive on open and honest communication and will do our best to help you maneuver through your remodeling project as easily as possible. Talk to us about remodeling your home. We promise you’ll love the result.
