What does it mean to prepare your home for renovation? Well, whether you’re a new homeowner or someone who’s bought and sold a few homes in your lifetime, at some point, you’re going to want to update and/or change something in your home make it more attractive (for yourself or for future buyers).
Renovations are normal. . . but sometimes they’re a little challenging space-wise (especially if you have a family to consider).
Here are some easy but essential tips to make the process smoother and get your home where it needs to be.
The Difference Between Preparation & Prepping
Before we get into the tips for prepping your home, it is essential to note the difference between preparation and prepping. Preparation is getting everything in order before the renovation starts. Prepping is what you do after the renovation has begun.
In order to get yourself fully ready, start with preparing your space. This includes taking down and storing personal items, decluttering and cleaning, and ensuring that all areas of your home are safe and approved for the next steps in the renovation process.
1. De-Personalize Your Home
If you’re planning on living in your home while a renovation takes place, it’s best to de-personalize the space. This means that all personal possessions should be removed before the project starts. This includes things like pictures, books, wall-art, and furniture.
Otherwise, these things may be in the way of construction workers and other team members, which will slow your job.
However, if you plan to move out while the renovations take place, it’s a good idea to do some sorting and saving first. For example, taking the art down from the walls and scrapbooking these items so that you have them for memories later.
2. Declutter & Downsize
Next, clean up as much of the clutter as possible. This can be as simple as tossing items into different storage bins (or if you have a lot of things – in a storage unit!); or, you can take advantage of this and take the time to declutter your home with intention.
The next step would be to remove any furniture that needs to be replaced or repaired. It might be tempting to leave certain things out so that you can save time and money, but this makes it more difficult for contractors to complete their work promptly because they’ll have less room to work.
Finally, if you plan on painting when the renovation is done, now would be a good time to paint any areas that need it before demolition begins.
3. Prepare the Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most common places where renovation work will be done. Prepare your kitchen by removing everything from surfaces or shelving that may be damaged or broken, such as plates and cups, pots and pans, or even tile backsplash and countertops.
Also, ensure that the sink, stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher are empty to avoid water or spills.
4. Prepare the Bathroom
Another common area for renovation is the bathroom. Prepare this space by removing furniture to create ample space in an area that’s typically on the smaller side. Next, you’ll need to remove all fixtures and faucets from the sink and toilet. This will allow contractors to access the pipes without having anything blocking their way.
Finally, clean everything in the room for a fresh start.
Ready To Start Your Home Renovation?
Renovating your home can be a great way to refresh and upgrade your space, and the best way to do this is to prepare your home for renovation before you begin. Many aspects need to be considered in order to have successful renovation.
Here’s a quick recap of your preparation list points above so that you can ensure you’re ready for the next step:
- Remove Personal Possessions
- De-Clutter & Organize Home
- Clear Pathways
- Make Sure Structural Items Are Not Damaged
- Close All Ducts (for Air Quality)
- Cover Electrical Outlets (for Safety)
- Clean All Surfaces (to Improve Air Quality)
- Leave Behind Food/Beverages
For other renovation tips, head to our Home Improvement page!
Featured Image Credit: immo Renovation
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