Photography: Sue Ferris
It doesn’t matter whether you’re renovating your entire home, or just one room, it’s a major expense, in time, money and energy. One way to save on all three fronts is by living through your renovation. You’ll save money, as you’re not paying rent while you renovate, and you’ll save time and energy by not having to pack up and move before work can commence.
Living through a renovation may not be for the faint hearted, but there are a few tips you can follow to make the whole process more bearable. Here are seven live-in renovation tips that will help you survive and thrive during the process – from construction, to completion.
1. The chaos won’t last forever
When a renovation has taken over your home, it can feel like the days are stretching on forever – especially if it’s a kitchen or bathroom being transformed. But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Here’s how to stay focussed on the end goal:
- Think of the renovation as a series of milestones, rather than one big project, and celebrate every bit of progress as you go.
- Keep communication lines open with your tradies, and ask for updates on how the work is tracking against the original timeline.
- Stick your moldboard and inspiration pictures up somewhere prominent and look at them any time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the whole process
2. Planning is essential
To live through a remodel successfully, you need to be prepared for it. Lists, spreadsheets and apps can all help you keep track of budgets and plans.
3. Order everything ahead of time
If you’re renovating a utility room, select your fixtures beforehand. That way, you won’t be left with rooms out of use for longer than they need to be.
4. Setting up a workable “dupe” is wise
While functional rooms – such as your bathroom – are off-limits, create a dupe of the space in another area. If your bathroom is cordoned off, lean on your gym membership and make use of its shower facilities. For longer bathroom renovations, consider hiring a portable ensuite, or accessing a shower at a friend or relative’s place nearby.
For a kitchen renovation, have a portable cooktop and a table set up elsewhere in the home. Or, fire up the barbie and keep picnic tableware on hand.
5. Things will get dusty
Close doors, use layers of drop sheets to screen off different parts of the house and tape up AC vents. Once your contractors have gone home, use a water-filled spray bottle to wet surfaces before sweeping or dusting to prevent dust from becoming airborne.
6. Find ways to avoid financial stress
Do you really need that Italian-marble benchtop? Make those vital decisions and avoid budget blowout with the Witzer app. The platform can help you keep track of your expenses and avoid contractual conflicts. Money is held in a safe trust and released when both parties agree the job is completed according to the contract terms.
7. You’ll need to think like a safety officer
Stay alert during your remodel. Watch for exposed wiring and make sure you keep inquisitive little hands or paws from getting hold of them. Better still, designate ‘no go zones’.
