“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” ~ Alexander Graham Bell. The same rules can be applied to your upcoming renovation. If you want your renovation to go smoothly, first you must plan, plan, plan.
Naturally, you’ve dreamt of where all the new features will go, and you’ve even envisioned how you will live and move in the new space. You have done copious amounts of research to find the right Toronto renovation contractor. You and your renovator have considered municipal zoning regulations, permits, and building codes. Now you must prepare for all the noise, dust, limited home access and clutter that comes with the renovation.
Let’s be honest, living through a renovation can be stressful but, I’m sure with these planning tips you will get through the renovation and be happier with your family, your neighbours and your contractor.
1. Batten down the hatches
Clothes, electronics, and furniture; these and many more are common victims of drywall dust. You can never be too careful, so it’s best to cover up any exposed items that you don’t wish to be damaged in plastic or move them to a safer room. An experienced renovation expert likely won’t come into contact with your belongings, but it may help you rest a little easier knowing your personal belongings are protected.
2. Develop a good working relationship
When you have a rapport with your contractor you will be able to set a predictable schedule and have a better idea of the progress of the renovation. Knowing when your general contractor is expected to be in your house will allow you to plan around their work schedule. It’s also good to get out of the house if you know the work is going to be especially loud.
3. Create places of peace
While certain areas of your house may be a mess, it’s wise to create some areas that are free of chaos. If the living room is under construction move the television into another room for a short while. When you are forced to stay at home during a renovation, you are going to need a place where you can be alone with your thoughts.
4. Get out of the house
If you can’t stand the noise and the chaos and need to get out of the house for a bit, try to take advantage of the friends and relatives who may be pitying your current circumstance. Planning dinners, movies, or any other occasions that can get you out of the house will take your mind off the renovations for a while. Perhaps those extra vacation days you’ve been saving can come in handy while you wait for the renovation process to conclude.
5. Prepare for delays
Renovation projects - especially ones involving older houses - can lend themselves more to unexpected surprises. A faulty pipe, improper wiring, and other unforeseen problems or a new creative idea for your renovation that you may think of, can come at any moment and could end up costing more time and money. Have money set aside in case any of these instances arise and if a project is supposed to take 4 months, it’s best practice to plan for 5 or more.
6. Remember the end goal
During a renovation, surprises will happen. It’s always important to keep in mind that the renovation process has an end date. While rooms will get dirty, days can get noisy and delays may happen, it’s best to keep thinking about the light at the end of the tunnel.
Whether you’re looking at a small or large renovation, Bryant Renovations has the expertise you can trust. If you’re considering a home renovation and you’d like to hire one of the most respected and accommodating Toronto general contractors, then you may want to contact Bryant Renovations for a free initial consultation. With over 25 years of developing our accommodating approach to our clients, we know how a home renovation should be done.