Renovating your home can be one of the most exciting and gratifying experiences of homeownership. From designing the floor plan to purchasing materials, there is lots of fun to be had, and most clients cannot wait to begin construction and see their renovation dreams finally coming true. However, choosing to live through a renovation is a big decision that should not be taken lightly.
Once ground breaks, you might be living in a full-blown construction zone. This means constant noise, mess, and workers in your home. That being said, there are some positives. It is easier to monitor day-to-day work and to notice small imperfections when you see the home daily. It’s easy to communicate with your project manager on a regular basis when you meet with them at the home. For your own sanity, Skelly Build suggests that you plan to spend at least part of your time living outside of the construction zone.
However, renting a second home is costly. With additions to the scope of work and surprises, you can get into trouble if you plan for a 6-week rental and your timeline doubles. Be sure to consider unforeseen timeline delays when making your decision to move out or stay put. Homeowners who decide to move into temporary homes also need to factor in additional housing expenses above and beyond the cost of remodeling. Having a second home doubles more costs than just your mortgage. Be sure to consider two sets of utility bills as well.
If you decide to stay in your home, be sure to have your contractor set up at least one sealed-off, construction-free zone and make it your go-to place to escape the chaos. Renovations are invasive and you will want to getaway. In order to minimize health-related problems, make sure to pack up clothing and bedding that you won’t be using in space-saving, vacuum-sealed bags to keep them clean and dust-free. Cover ducts with plastic. And turn off air conditioning and heating systems during the day, if possible, to keep air from circulating through the house.
Maintaining a somewhat clean home during a renovation is very important. You should insist that contractors clean their workspace at the end of each day and haul away trash daily.
Ultimately, the truth is that living in a construction zone for an extended period of time is grueling. If it becomes too much to bear, you may consider a short getaway or renting a hotel for a week in the middle of the project. Living through a renovation will save you money, but will undoubtedly be invasive, loud, and noisy. Make sure to consider all the pros and cons before making the decision to stay or go. Finally, remember that all the sacrifice will be worth it for your beautiful, new, finished product!
If you are in the middle of a renovation, find yourself on the timeline below. Are you at a low point or a high point in your renovation journey?
Are you thinking about renovating your home? Skelly Build has lots of experience with the Homeowner’s Emotional Roller Coaster and can give you the expertise service you need to make the renovation process run as smoothly as possible! Click here for a complimentary estimate on what it would take to get your dream project started!
