How To Survive A Home Renovation

Undergoing a renovation of your home can seem like a daunting task.
Here are some tips to help get you through this process.

1. Pack up all valuables, it is inevitable the best china will be knocked into or your most prized painting covered with sheetrock dust.
   Anything that may be exposed to the work should just be packed up in a box and stored in a closet or garage.
   After the work is done it is nice to take out all the beautiful things you had around your home.
   It is even nicer that you did not have to dust them fifty times.
   If you are having a second story addition, it is wise to pack up computers and electronic equipment that is directly below the work, as rain or water may accidentally get in.
   No matter how good the tarp -it is not a roof.
2. Plan your meals ahead of time, especially if you are having a kitchen renovation, even if you are not, there will be days you cannot bear the clutter and disorder and will not want to cook.
   Make ahead and freeze – this way you can quickly defrost.
   Stock up on plastic and paper products so you do not have to worry about clean up.
   Call family and friends to plan meals out of the home.
3. Plan day trips.
   Once you have established a trust with your contractor, and you know who is going to be working in your home – GET OUT.
   Being around the work is very disturbing.
   It is very hard to see your beloved home being torn down and re-arranged.
   Getting out a certain amount of time every day, will freshen your mind and help your outlook.
4. Post plans.
   It is very easy to lose sight of the end product when going through a renovation, so tape up your plans so you can remind yourself why you are putting yourself through the calamity.
5. Keep an objective mind on time.
   It is so easy to lose patience over how long a project is taking or not wanting to wait the extra week for the perfect vanity.
   However, when you keep in mind the expense of home renovations, and the amount of YEARS you will be enjoying the new room, level, etc… it is important to do it right the first time.
   Remember, this too shall pass.
6. During the project get yourself excited about the finished product by shopping for fixtures, picking out paint colors or tile.
   Ordering a new piece of furniture or perhaps an antique once -again, keep your eye on the prize.
7. Lastly, but most importantly -keep up communication with your contractor.
   It is easy to get frustrated, when your home seems to be inside out.
   Your contractor surely wants a satisfied client, as well as a job well done.
   It is your responsibility to express any concerns you may be having right away.
   Then be open to what your contractor has to say.
   There are many variables that go into home remodeling -it is not a science, it is an art and the largest piece of art any person can own -so be sure to assist in the process and chances are you will have a masterpiece that you can enjoy for years.

— By Alleva Construction, Inc., a full-service residential and commercial construction company.