In 2018, the home improvement industry generated $394 billion in revenue in the United States. Many homeowners opt to renovate their homes to add space, modernize essential rooms, or replace outdated electrical and plumbing systems. Homeowners may also invest in updates before selling their house.
Renovating your home can be a lengthy, expensive process. You may not be able to access parts of your house for weeks, which can be stressful. Following these tips can simplify the process and help you manage your anxiety while you renovate.
1. Hire Professionals
Replacing your home's windows can improve your home's energy efficiency. You can also add distinctive features by installing bay windows. It can take several weeks to order windows and have them replaced. Experts can install 10-15 replacement windows in Allentown, for example, in one workday. Professional window installers will work with you to schedule the project and advise you of the steps you need to take to prepare your home for window installation.
Hire qualified contractors from established companies. Inexperienced contractors may increase your stress by providing inaccurate estimates. Experienced contractors can anticipate potential complications and know how to resolve issues. Hiring professionals can reduce your anxiety by providing you with the most accurate information possible from the start of the job.
2. Follow Recommendations
Follow the recommendations your contractors provide. For example, if you're having new doors or windows installed, you may need to remove pets from your home or confine them in other areas of your home to prevent them from escaping. Your contractors may also advise you to vacate the premises for some projects. Renovation projects can generate dust, which can cause respiratory issues. If your electrical system is being updated, there may be periods when the power is off. Bathrooms may be unavailable if plumbers are installing or repairing pipes.
Your contractors may also advise you to take specific steps before a project begins. You may need to clear all items out of rooms if you're having flooring replaced. If this hasn't been done before your contractors are scheduled to start, they will be delayed, which could increase the project's cost. Following recommendations can prevent misunderstandings and delays, which can cause stress.
3. Manage Your Stress
While renovations are underway, some items may need to be packed and put into storage. Other possessions may need to be moved. Trying to remember where things you need are can be frustrating. Contractors can track dirt and create a mess while they work, which means you can also expect to do more house cleaning.
Talking to a therapist can, however, help to relieve the tension and stress that comes with home renovations. A quick Google search of "therapist near me" will offer you a list of the best professionals in your area. You may also pick up some tips and coping mechanisms for stress during a long and drawn-out renovation. You can even opt to have your therapy sessions online. Online therapy will save you time, and you won't feel like you have to settle for a therapist nearby. You'll be able to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with to guide you through the process.
4. Plan Ahead
If you watch any HGTV home renovation programs, you will see one consistent recurring theme: home renovations almost always take longer than expected. View large renovation projects as lengthy projects that can take several months to help you manage your expectations.
Some projects require different contractors to perform tasks before others can complete their work. An electrician may need to install wiring before ceilings and walls can be replaced. Discuss these needs with your contractors to ensure they're in communication. If possible, create a list of alternate projects contractors can work on if there are delays with one task.
You may want your renovations to coincide with a planned family vacation to ensure everyone is out of the house. It can help you reduce costs because contractors may need you to move out of the property during the renovations. You can also reduce your stress because you won't need to worry about cleaning your house or accommodating your contractors' work schedules.
5. Expect Complications
When contractors remove walls or cabinets, they may discover mold, pests, outdated wiring, plumbing leaks, or other issues. Until work begins, no contractor can be certain about the project's timeline or cost. Ordering parts can cause delays and costs may increase if you need to have mold removed or pipes replaced.
Anticipating issues will help you set realistic expectations. This can prevent disappointment and stress. If you allocate extra time and money to complete the projects, you'll be prepared to handle complications that arise.
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