How To Get Your Home Ready for a Remodel

First step: Breathe! We know a home remodel can be stressful, especially since it impacts your ability to live freely in your space. But with the right preparation, you can minimize disruptions, protect your belongings, and make the process that much smoother.

By gathering details in advance and communicating a clear plan with your contractor, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any remodeling project.

Follow our pre-renovation checklist to be in great shape for the transformation ahead.

1. Declutter & Clear Work Areas

You’ll save a lot of time on Day One by following this crucial step in the pre-model phase.

Start your home remodel preparation by removing all furniture, décor, or personal items from soon-to-be renovated rooms. Decide what goes where, and determine if you’ll need extra storage space, either in an outside unit or secured with friends and family. Don’t forget to clear hallways and paths too, so the work area is accessible for contractors.

2. Protect Your Home & Furniture

Interior remodeling comes with inevitable mess, so remember to protect your home and its belongings from kicked-up dust or debris.

Consider covering your furniture with plastic sheeting or dropcloths to preserve upholstery. You may want to put up plastic dust walls too, since this better separates a work zone from your living space. You can also cover floors with protective runners or heavy-duty tarps to shield them from scratches or dirt during the remodel.

3. Make Arrangements for Temporary Living Spaces

If your remodel affects essential areas like the kitchen or bathroom, plan for temporary alternatives. Set up a makeshift kitchen with portable appliances, and consider using a nearby bathroom or creating a temporary one. Having a backup plan in place is an indispensable step on your remodeling checklist.

4. Prepare for Noise & Disruption

One of our top home renovation tips: Focus on the end results.

Renovations can be noisy, so it’s a good idea to mentally prepare for what’s ahead. Talk to your contractor about daily schedules so you can prevent noisy work hours and leave the home if necessary.

It’s also a good idea to warn neighbors about peak construction times so they’re aware of extra noise.

5. Budget for Unexpected Expenses

Here’s the reality: Home renovations can incur unexpected costs, especially if there are unforeseen structural issues or material price increases.

We recommend setting aside a contingency fund to cover these expenses, including potential repairs or additional materials. You’ll also want to budget accordingly for hotels or dining if you’re staying outside the home.

A reputable contractor will help you manage your budget in advance and clearly communicate any changes in expenses. If a contingency fund must be used, it should be discussed transparently.

Choose Green Hill Contracting for Your Remodeling Project

Feeling ready for a renovation starts with being prepared.

Chipping away at our home renovation tips will help streamline the remodel preparation process and minimize surprises along the way. The more prepared you are, the smoother your remodeling project will go — and that means enjoying beautiful results sooner!

Considering a home renovation or remodel in Chapel Hill? Green Hill Contracting is a woman-owned and locally owned remodeling contractor with over 30 years of combined experience in the Durham area. We bring homeowners’ visions to life with 3D renderings and custom design services that deliver superior remodeling results.

Need help managing your renovation budget? Contact Green Hill Contracting for expert budgeting advice.