10 Tips for Living at Home During Your Vancouver Condo Renovation
If you’re undertaking partial renovations in your condo, prefer to avoid the stress and cost associated with moving, or simply prefer stay close to monitor the progress of your project, you might find yourself living in your home during your renovation.
Living in your condo during a renovation can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can minimize disruption and maintain your comfort. At QUAY, your trusted Vancouver condo renovation contractor specializing in luxury condo renovations, we understand the complexities of living through a renovation. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this period smoothly.
1. Create a Renovation Plan with Your Contractor
Before the renovation begins, work closely with your Vancouver condo renovation contractor to create a detailed plan. This should include the scope of work, a timeline, and any specific requirements you have for living in the space during the renovation. Having a detailed plan with a set timeline will provide you with the peace of mind. Demolition noise, drywall mud, dust created during tile installations can all start to take a toll after a while, so it’s always better to know in advance when you’re project is anticipated to complete. Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel will help keep your spirits high and keep you excited to see the completed project rather than wondering how much longer it will take!
Tip: Clearly communicate your needs and expectations with your contractor to ensure they are aware of your living situation and can plan accordingly. If you have big family plans, a vacation or another major event coming up by which point you need to have the work completed, it’s always best to give your contractor as much as advance notice as possible. Communication is key!
2. Set Up a Temporary Living Space
Much like planning your project, planning your temporary living situation during your renovation is also important. Designate a part of your condo as a temporary living space where you can retreat from the chaos of construction. This space should be as far from the renovation area as possible to minimize noise and dust.
Tip: Equip your temporary living space with essentials like a mini-fridge, microwave, and storage for daily necessities to make your life more convenient during the condo renovation.
3. Protect Your Belongings
Renovations can generate dust and debris that may damage your belongings. Take steps to protect your furniture, electronics, and other valuables by covering them with plastic sheets or moving them to a safer location within your condo. Taking these proactive measures will not only help keep your belongings safe, but it will also assist your contractor in setting up and completing your project quicker. It’s all about teamwork.
Tip: Use labeled storage boxes to keep your items organized and easily accessible when you need them. This will help avoid question marks when it’s time to move back into your new space!
4. Plan for Noise and Disruption
Renovation work can be noisy and disruptive. Plan your day-to-day activities around the construction schedule to minimize inconvenience. Consider scheduling outings or activities during peak construction hours. Also, check with your contractor in advance to see which days are going to be the noisiest and during which times. Typically on demolition day, tiling, and hard surface floor installation days it would be wise to get some fresh air and escape the noise.
Tip: Invest in noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to help reduce the impact of construction noise on your daily life.
5. Communicate with Your Neighbors
Living through a renovation affects not only you but also your neighbors. Inform them about the renovation schedule and any potential disruptions. Keeping an open line of communication can help maintain good relations. If your building allows it, and if your condo renovation contractor hasn’t done so already, have to put up notices to inform your neighbours of where the work is going and how long it will take to complete.
Tip: Provide your contact information so neighbors can reach out with any concerns or questions during the renovation process. (At QUAY we have a project manager for every project and they will be the person in charge of looking after any questions or concerns from your neighbours so you don’t have to.)
6. Maintain Cleanliness
Renovations can create a lot of dust and debris. Regular cleaning will help you maintain a livable environment. Ask your Vancouver condo renovation contractor about dust control measures they can implement to minimize the spread of dust.
Tip: Use air purifiers to improve air quality and reduce the amount of dust in your living space.
7. Plan Your Meals
With your kitchen under renovation, meal preparation can become a challenge. Plan ahead by preparing meals in advance or arranging alternative meal options like takeout or meal delivery services.
Tip: Set up a small kitchen station in your temporary living space with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, and snacks.
8. Stay Flexible and Patient
Renovations often come with unexpected delays and changes. Staying flexible and patient can help you manage stress and adapt to any challenges that arise during the process.
Tip: Keep a positive attitude and focus on the end result—a beautifully renovated condo that meets your needs and desires.
9. Stay Involved in the Process
Regular communication with your Vancouver condo renovation contractor is essential. Stay involved by attending regular site meetings and staying informed about the progress of the renovation. Prior to engaging a condo renovation contractor, check with them regarding their project communication plan. More established renovation companies typically have a robust project management plan in place which involves constant and open communication.
Tip: Use a project management app to track the renovation progress and communicate with your contractor efficiently.
10. Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care
Living through a renovation can be stressful. Take breaks and practice self-care to maintain your well-being. Spend time outside, engage in relaxing activities, and make sure to get enough rest.
Tip: Schedule regular outings to parks, cafes, or friends’ houses to give yourself a break from the renovation environment.
Living in your condo during a renovation doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With careful planning and the right strategies, you can maintain your comfort and sanity throughout the process. At QUAY, we specialize in Vancouver luxury condo renovations and are committed to making your renovation experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. To learn more about our services and to get started on planning your dream renovation, visit QUAY Construction or give us a call.
www.quayconstruction.ca
info@quayconstruction.ca
(778) 697-9924