Living On-site During the Renovation Process
If you’re about to embark on a renovation journey, this guide is for you. It can be challenging living in the same space as the renovation is taking place.
Our aim is to provide you with practical tips and advice on how to make your renovation experience as smooth as possible, while still being able to call your home your own during the process.
What to Expect When Living On-site While Renovating My Home
Living on-site while renovating home can involve making many compromises. You should expect deal with dust and other environmental factors such as loud noises and disruption. Being surrounded by all this, especially for those working from home, is certainly no fun, so having patience and understanding is key.
It is even more complicated when you have pets and kids in tow. The first priority then is to make sure they stay out of harm’s way. You will have to watch out for exposed wiring and prevent inquisitive hands or paws from getting ahold of them. Also, it would be best altogether to refrain from allowing them into areas where tthe renovations are occurring.
There could be hazardous materials lying around, so it is crucial that you see to their proper disposal. Furnishings and rugs may need to be vacuumed periodically to avoid health complications like asthma or allergies.
Furthermore, have reasonable expectations for progress due to unforeseen difficulties.
The Benefits of Living On-site While Renovating
Convenience
You don’t have to deal with the hassle of moving out or packing and unpacking your belongings. This saves you time, energy and money.
Reduced Costs
Avoid the costs having a temporary house or living arrangement, as well as fuel costs of driving back and forth to your house.
Peace of Mind
Be more involved so you’re less likely to experience any surprises or setbacks as they happen in real time. Enjoy watching the transformation take place firsthand!
Quality Control
You can make sure that all work is done properly and consistently to your standards. There is better oversight and communication between you and your contractors.
Flexibility
Being present at your site lets you make decisions as the project progresses e.g., ordering more supplies or changing features. Keep an eye on budgets and deadlines too!
Quicker Turnaround
Any issues with materials or contractor questions are addressed quickly and effectively. This allows for faster resolution of problems and keeps your renovation project on track.
Tips For Staying Organised and Keeping Your Sanity During a Renovation Project
Set clear expectations for yourself and the contractor
Before a renovation project begins, it is important to set clear expectations in terms of timeline, budget, design elements, and more. This will help to keep everyone on the same page and ensure that expectations are met.
Take before and after photos
Taking photos before and during the renovation process can help you organised. Photos can be used as reference points when making decisions or tracking progress.
Be prepared for chaos
Home renovations can often be messy and chaotic, so be prepared for this. Have a plan in place for where furniture will go, what items will need to be moved, etc., so that everything remains as organised as possible during the process.
Set up a temporary workspace
If possible, set up a temporary workspace in another room of the house or in your backyard so that you have a quiet place to work while the construction is taking place inside your home.
Consider renting storage space
Renting a storage unit can help you keep items that cannot currently fit back into your home elsewhere until the renovation project is complete.
Prioritise safety
Ensuring safety should always be a top priority during renovations. This includes wearing protective gear such as gloves, dust masks, goggles, etc.,when you’re entering the renovation area. Store items safely out of reach of children, pets, power tools and other hazards as best as possible until you’re ready to use them again.
Make use of soundproofing materials
Invest in soundproofing materials like insulation foam or acoustic caulking around windows and door frames. This will keep out unwanted sounds coming from outside sources such as power tools or machinery operating nearby.
Keep indoor air quality clean
Dust from construction projects can quickly fill up an entire room within minutes (and sometimes even hours). This can cause poor air quality which may also lead to other health problems like allergies or asthma flare-ups. Invest in an air purifier to filter out dust particle and pollutants from circulating through your home’s atmosphere.
Stay on top of communication with contractors
Keep track of the progress of the project, provide feedback, and make necessary changes to the plans. Miscommunication can result in misunderstandings, which can cause delays, cost overruns, and decreased quality of work. Effective communication helps to ensure that everyone involved in the renovation project is on the same page and working towards the same goals.
Lastly, prioritise self care activites!
Taking time each day just for yourself is incredibly important while undergoing any type of renovation project. Take short walks outdoors, indulge in some self-care activities like yoga or meditation, go out with friends, read books, etc. Counterbalance all stress related activities associated with renovating one’s own home!
Need Options for Temporary Accommodation While They’re Renovating Your Home?
If the cons of staying on-site while the renovation process is ongoing outweigh the benefits, then these are the options you could look into:
1. Hotel or motel stay: You can book a room in a hotel or motel. This is a convenient option, especially if you need to be close to your house while it’s being renovated.
2. Vacation rental (e.g., AirBnB): You can rent a holiday home, apartment, or a similar property as a temporary living arrangement. This option can be more cost-effective than a hotel stay, especially if you’re staying for a longer period.
3. Serviced apartments: Serviced apartments offer more space and facilities than a hotel room, making them a good option for temporary living.
4. Rental properties: You can rent a house or apartment on a short-term basis. This option is ideal if you’re looking for a more homely feel during your temporary stay.
5. Staying with friends or family: If you have friends or family members, you could stay with them during the renovation. This is a cost-effective option and can also be a good opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Work with McColl Cabinet Makers
We hope you enjoyed this guide and that it’s given you some useful insights into how to make your renovation experience as smooth as possible. If you’re looking for:
Cabinet makers Ipswich
Cabinet makers Gold Coast
All-around home renovators
We’d love to chat with you at McColl Cabinetmakers!
We specialise in premium custom cabinetry and installation for interior renovations and new home fit-out. We service homeowners in Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast, and the surrounding suburbs. Contact us today to get started on your dream renovation!
FAQs
Before living on site during a renovation, have a clear understanding of the timeline and scope of the project. Prepare for the inconvenience and mess by storing your belongings and securing the areas of your home that will be unaffected by the renovation.
Take steps to secure the site, such as covering electrical outlets and sealing off areas that are under construction. Communicate with your contractor about any potential hazards and ensure that they are following proper safety procedures.
To minimise the impact of the renovation on your daily routine, plan ahead and schedule your work and other activities around the construction schedule. Work with your contractor to establish a timeline that accommodates your needs and minimises disruption.
Yes. However, keep in mind that changes can result in additional time and cost, so it’s best to plan ahead and make any changes before the renovation begins. Communicate any changes to your contractor and ensure that they are incorporated into the plan in a timely and cost-effective manner.
When selecting a contractor for a renovation project, consider their experience and expertise, references from past clients, and their reputation in the industry. Review their contract and insurance coverage.
Have a clear understanding of the cost of the project and to keep track of expenses as they arise. Work closely with your contractor to ensure that you stay within budget. Be prepared to make adjustments to the plan if necessary. It’s also a good idea to set aside an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.