Once you’ve decided on a home renovation or remodel, you’ll have to prep your space before the construction actually starts. Depending on whether you decide to do one individual room or multiple, you’ll want to make sure the construction company you work with has enough space to work most effectively.
Companies like Megill Custom Homes and Renovations have helped hundreds of homeowners with this exact process, and are here to give you a helpful guide on where to start.
This blog will cover how to clear your space, protect your valuables, set up temporary living quarters, and communicate with your contractors. By the end, you will feel confident in how to prep for a home renovation and have an actual, clear, actionable plan to tackle the weeks ahead.
Start with a Deep Decluttering Session
Prep for a home renovation begins with the clutter. Construction zones require a lot of space for materials, tools, drywall, cabinetry, and more. You don’t want everyday items to be in the way and potentially get dirty during demolition. Start by going through every room involved in the project. Sort your items into three distinct categories: things you need to use during the remodel, things you want to pack away, and things you no longer need.
Next, put together the items you want to keep aside or in a plastic bin so they’re out of the way for the next few months. Cardboard boxes work too, but plastic bins do a much better job of keeping out the inevitable drywall dust. Don’t forget to label everything clearly so you can find your belongings easily once the dust settles and the rooms are finished.
How Can You Protect Your Valuables and Furniture?
The demolition process can get a bit messy. With this in mind, it’s important to protect your furniture with heavy-duty plastic sheeting and any other investments you may have near the job site. Dust and debris have a way of sneaking into every crack and crevice of your home, even in rooms far away from the actual work zone.
Megill Custom Home and Renovations recommends taking down any mirrors, artwork, picture frames, and other delicate items from the walls, too. Vibrations from the hammering and drilling can actually shake these things clean off the walls. Also, roll up area rugs and store them in a clean, dry place to prevent them from absorbing construction odors or fine dust.
How Can You Set Up Temporary Living Areas?
If you end up getting your bedroom or kitchen worked on, this is a key part of the house that you won’t have access to for a certain amount of time. It may be beneficial for you to get creative and set up a temporary makeshift kitchen or bedroom in another room.
To create a temporary kitchen, designate a corner of your dining room or living room. Move your refrigerator if possible, or invest in a mini-fridge. Set up a microwave, a toaster oven, and a coffee maker on a sturdy table. Stock this area with paper plates, disposable utensils, and non-perishable snacks to minimize the need for washing dishes in the bathroom sink.
If your master bedroom is part of the project, move your bed and essential clothing to a guest room or basement. Make this temporary space as comfortable as possible. Bring your favorite pillows, set up adequate lighting, and create a cozy retreat where you can escape the noise of the construction zone.
Think About Your HVAC System
One element homeowners often forget about in their home renovation checklist is their HVAC system during a remodel. There is going to be a lot of dust involved, which can put your duct system in overdrive. Ask your contractor to seal off the air vents and return registers in the rooms being remodeled.
During the prep for a major renovation, Megill Custom Home and Renovations makes sure to isolate the work area with heavy plastic barriers. Taking this small step prevents your furnace or air conditioner from working too hard and potentially breaking down.
What Plans Do You Need for Pets and Children?
If you have children or pets, it may be good to take precautions and get them out of the house during your renovation or custom home project. Curious children and anxious pets create an accident waiting to happen. Think about all the dangerous tools, exposed wires, and toxic fumes involved.
To be on the safe side, get your children away from the project by scheduling more playdates or trips during peak construction hours. For pets, consider putting them in a faraway bedroom or even doggie daycare during the loudest days to avoid any high level of stress.
Establish Clear Communication with Your Contractor
Good communication is key to a smooth remodeling project. You should know what’s happening day to day, and your contractor should be able to reach you quickly when decisions need to be made. It helps to set a main point of contact and agree on how you’ll stay in touch, whether that’s calls, texts, or email.
At Megill Homes, keeping clients in the loop is always a priority, so nothing feels unclear or unexpected. It’s also a good idea to go over simple logistics early, like parking, work hours, and which areas the crew can use, to avoid any confusion later on.
Get Excited About Major Renovation Prep
When looking at how to prep for a home renovation, the whole process feels a whole lot smoother with the right efforts. A little preparation helps protect your home, keeps your family comfortable, and sets things up for a more efficient build from start to finish.
When you’re ready to take the next step, Megill Homes is here to help with quality work and clear communication every step of the way. Reach out to the team to talk through your ideas, browse the design center, and start turning your current house into the home you’ve been imagining.