When planning your home remodeling project, you might begin by searching for “residential general contractors near me” to find the best home remodeling contractors. With a reliable residential contractor at hand, the next question that comes to mind is: “Should I stay in my home or move during the renovation?”
If you’re emotionally attached to your home, the thought of moving can feel overwhelming. However, since construction work can be disruptive and messy, preparing in advance is essential. Moving out can speed up the process and reduce inconveniences, but it can also stretch your budget. Staying might sound easier, but it comes with its own set of challenges.
Here’s what to consider before making your decision:
Assess the Scope of Your Home Renovation Project
Determine the Project’s Impact
If you’re unsure whether to stay or move, start by assessing the scope of the renovation and its impact on your daily life. If you’re remodeling a frequently used room like the kitchen or bathroom, discuss the project’s timeline and safety concerns with your contractor. For small projects, staying may be possible by adjusting your routine.
Consider the Project Duration
For larger-scale projects that might take months, it’s best to move out. Staying can complicate your daily life and disrupt the remodeling progress. Moving out could speed up work and minimize interruptions, helping your contractor complete the project on time.
Pro Tip Takeaway: If it’s a small project, talk to your contractor about safety and space usage. If it’s a larger project that will take weeks or months, moving out might be the best option.
Think of the Layout of Your Property
Single Entry Point vs. Multiple Floors
Your home’s layout plays a crucial role in deciding whether to stay or move. If your home has a single entry point, the renovation team will need to use the same entrance, which can bring dust and contaminants into your home. Implementing measures to keep dust away might be necessary.
Isolate the Work Area
If you have a multi-story home and the renovation is confined to one floor, you can separate the construction zone from the living area. Talk to your contractor about creating a barrier between the renovation zone and your living space to protect your family from debris and toxins.
Pro Tip Takeaway: For single-entry homes, plan to minimize contaminants. For multi-level homes, isolate the work area from the rest of the house with your contractor’s help.
Do You Trust Your General Contractors?
Assess Trust and Comfort Level
Trust is a significant factor when deciding whether to stay or move. During the renovation, you’ll see strangers coming and going, which may feel uncomfortable if you haven’t built trust with your contractor. Speak with the contractor’s references and check reviews to ensure they have a solid reputation.
Consider Safety Options
To enhance security, you can install a lockbox at the entrance, move out, or choose a highly trusted contractor. At Smart Remodeling, our renovation team is reliable and professional, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the project.
Pro Tip Takeaway: Make sure you trust the contractor handling your renovation to avoid safety concerns and gain confidence in their work.
Figure Out if You Can Stretch Your Budget
Plan for Additional Expenses
Moving out during a renovation often means adding extra costs to your budget. Consider short-term rental options, hotel stays, or even planning a vacation. Remember to include these additional expenses in your original budget plan.
Stay in Regular Contact
Even if you decide to move, staying in constant communication and making regular site visits is crucial. Set up a clear communication plan with your contractor to stay updated on the project’s progress.
Pro Tip Takeaway: If you decide to move, ensure your budget can accommodate extra expenses like rentals or hotel stays.
Consider the Size of Your Family
Kids and Pets Safety
If you have a large family with kids and pets, staying might be difficult. Children and pets need to be kept away from construction areas for their safety. Create a plan to supervise them or arrange alternative spaces for them to stay during the renovation.
Plan for Disruptions
If the renovation is extensive, consider moving out temporarily to reduce disruptions. This will provide a safer environment for everyone and allow the contractors to work without interference.
Pro Tip Takeaway: Ensure you have a solid plan to keep kids and pets away from the construction zone to avoid potential hazards.
Start Your Project With Us
Are you wondering whether you should stay or move during your home remodeling? Don’t stress! At Smart Remodeling LLC, we provide structured project management to minimize disruptions. Our team will work closely with you to keep your home organized and safe throughout the renovation.
Contact us today to schedule a FREE in-home consultation, or visit our showroom at 12711 Fuqua St, Suite 106 Houston, TX 77034, to explore your remodeling options. We’ll work around your schedule to make your remodeling experience smooth and hassle-free.