5 Ways to Prepare for a Home Remodel

You’ve signed the contract, decided on a plan and now you’re waiting for construction to begin. If you haven’t started already, now is the time to really get organized. Taking on a home remodel project is invasive regardless of the scope of work. Whether you’re doing a full kitchen makeover, or remodeling your master bathroom, disruption to your everyday life is inevitable.

At Forest Glen, we work with you to make sure the construction process runs as smoothly as possible, but it is important to be prepared for the months ahead. So, we’ve collected a list of tips from our staff to help you prepare for your home remodel.

1. Pack your belongings efficiently. Work your way through each room that will be included in you remodel and pack up everything that is nonessential to your everyday routine. Determine if you need to move your furniture out, or find the appropriate cover materials. Use reusable clear plastic containers for your storage, so you can easily see what is in which box, without having to open and dig through each one. Keep the items you use on a daily basis accessible. Nothing is more frustrating than digging through several boxes to get to your utensils or coffee mugs.
2. Set up a temporary kitchen. This is especially important if you will be living through a kitchen remodel. Create an area where you can prepare food in a toaster oven or microwave. Consider moving your fridge into that area, be it in your basement, laundry room or garage. If that is not an option, rent a mini fridge, borrow from a friend or search craigslist for a temporary refrigerator. Set up a coffee station in your bedroom or in the temporary kitchen space, where you can easily access it for your morning routine.
3. Stock up. Cooking and washing dishes is not exactly easy to do without a kitchen. Stock up on biodegradable dishware like plates, cups, silverware, etc. Remember to recycle though! Dining options will be limited and take-out will get old after the first month, so turn to quick, easy meals and nonperishable snacks.
4. Safety first. Construction can be dangerous. While the subcontractors do their best to collect and store their tools at the end of each day, you shouldn’t underestimate the curiosity of your little ones. Have a conversation with your kids about the importance of staying away from the construction areas. Set up safety gates surrounding the construction and keep an eye out for runaway materials on the floors, like nails.
5. Attitude is everything. Deciding to undergo a home remodel is like choosing your own adventure. Take the opportunity of living through change with your family to bond. You might be stuck in your basement for a couple months, but at least you are together. Take a night out together, or have a slumber party at Grandma and Grandpa’s. Tell you close-by friends and family about the construction, you will certainly need a little support, or maybe just a place to do a load of laundry. Consider taking a long weekend to get away from the construction, or plan a day trip to escape.