Once you have hired a contractor and set a start date, there are a few things you can do to make the project go smoothly. Preparation is not complicated, but it does make a difference for both you and the crew doing the work.
Clear the Work Area
Remove personal items, decorations, and furniture from the room being remodeled. If the project involves a kitchen, empty the cabinets and clear the countertops before the crew arrives. For bathroom remodels, remove toiletries, towels, and anything stored in cabinets or closets. The less the crew has to work around, the faster and more efficiently the job gets done.
Protect Adjacent Spaces
Remodeling generates dust. Even with containment measures, fine dust can travel into adjacent rooms. Close doors to nearby rooms and consider covering furniture in adjoining spaces with drop cloths. At Black Forest Home Improvements, we set up dust barriers and use negative air pressure when possible to contain dust to the work area. But an extra layer of protection on your end never hurts.
Plan for Disruptions
A kitchen remodel means you will not have full use of your kitchen for several weeks. Set up a temporary cooking area with a microwave, coffee maker, and a few basic supplies. A bathroom remodel means planning which other bathroom the household will use. If you only have one bathroom, talk to your contractor about the timeline so you can plan accordingly. We try to maintain access to essential utilities whenever possible and give you advance notice before any shutoffs.
Talk to Your Neighbors
Construction noise, crew vehicles, and material deliveries can affect the neighbors. A quick heads up goes a long way toward keeping relationships positive. This is especially important in Lehigh Valley neighborhoods with close lot lines or shared driveways.
Know What to Expect on Day One
Before the project begins, your contractor should walk you through the schedule and explain what will happen during the first few days. At Black Forest, we review the full scope of work with every homeowner before the crew starts. You will know exactly what to expect and who to contact if questions come up.
The HGTV renovation planning guides offer practical tips for homeowners preparing for their first major remodel.
Questions about getting started? Contact us and we will walk you through the process.