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Remodeling
Tips
From the time you contract
with your builder, discussions should include strategies
for minimizing disruption to your home, family, and lifestyle.
Some contractors will not start a project until everything on order
has arrived; the old cabinets will not be removed, for example,
until the new ones are in at the cabinet shop. Careful timing of
orders can save the family unnecessary discomfort. Here are a few
more strategies for surviving the chaos of a kitchen remodel.
- Set
up a temporary kitchen – a microwave oven, countertop,
and sink – in
the basement, laundry room, or extra bathroom.
- Use carpet runners and plastic partitions called dust curtains to minimize the
impact of grime. Ask about limiting worker access into the home to one entrance.
- Outline your
menus. Ask your contractor how long you’ll be without
the use of a kitchen and plan accordingly.
Remember that restaurant coupon book you bought
last spring? Use it.
- Have a backup plan. Talk to friends and relatives and arrange an exchange of
services: You bring the groceries, and everyone helps prepare a meal in their
kitchen.
- Don’t
internalize stress: Picture yourself as a good person in a tough
situation. Know your stress buttons and work to balance the tension
when it becomes too much for you. Take a walk,
go to the gym, or head to the library.
- Monitor your
self-image: You know all of those TV commercials showing happy
people living in spotless homes? Forget about them. Your home’s
condition during a remodeling project is not a reflection of
your worth.
- As with everything in life, attitude can make a difference! It will
be important to try and maintain a positive attitude through all
this hassle because the wait will be well worth it!
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