Home renovations can be a big project, but it’s not impossible to make the process easier. We asked design and construction pros to share their best tips for making your remodel run smoothly.
One of the most important things you can do is plan ahead. A detailed timeline and flexible material choices help minimize surprises.
1. Hire a Contractor
Hiring a contractor can be a great way to make remodeling easier. It can save you time and money, and help you keep the worksite neat and tidy.
In addition, hiring a contractor can help you avoid problems and scams during the remodel process. To ensure you’re working with a reputable pro, follow these tips:
1. Hire an experienced contractor that you trust
You’ll want to hire someone with extensive knowledge of local codes, regulations and other requirements for your remodeling project. This will help you know that your contractor is knowledgeable about the project’s complexities and can handle any surprises, which can lead to unexpected costs.
A contractor should also be able to provide you with detailed and thorough estimates. An estimate that’s lacking in detail is a sign of poor workmanship, King says.
2. Rent a Dumpster
Having a dumpster nearby can make remodeling easier because you don’t have to worry about dumping your waste at the landfill. This will save you time and money in the long run.
When you rent a dumpster, the company will take care of the disposal for you. They’ll place it on your property and pick it up when you’re done.
If you have a lot of debris to dispose of, it’s best to choose a dumpster with a larger capacity. This will help you save on overage fees and avoid getting charged for more than you need.
There are different types of dumpsters and a wide range of prices to choose from. Be sure to research all of the options and decide which one will work for you before committing to renting one.
4. Pack Away Valuables
It can be difficult to pack away all of your valuables during a remodeling project. However, it’s important to do so in order to keep them safe from the elements and other damages. This can be done by using duct tape and bubble wrap to protect each item and then packing them safely in a box.
It can also be helpful to label each box so that you can easily find what you need later on. This will save you time and frustration when you need to locate one particular item. It’s also a good idea to make a detailed inventory of all of the items you have packed so that you can make an insurance claim if anything is damaged. It will also help to make sure that you have pictures of each of your items so that you can document their condition in case anything happens.
5. Cover Doorways
Covering doorways can make it easier to move big objects through tight spaces. This is especially important during a remodel when you have to haul materials and heavy equipment from one area of the house to another.
You can easily use a draped curtain, beaded curtain, folding screen, a screen divider, a bookshelf, tapestry, a blanket, quilt, panels, or rugs to cover your doorway. This will provide privacy and protection from dust and other particles while also adding an interesting new feature to your decor!
Cardboard is also a great option to protect doorways. Wrap the threshold with it and use tape to seal it off. This will keep it from getting beaten up by moving materials and help to prevent dust from spreading throughout your home unnoticed during the remodeling process.