Once you’ve decided to use us for your Brantford kitchen renovations, visions of shiney countertops, new cabinetry, and an entirely new spatial arrangements are likely dancing through your head – especially the night before the renovation starts. However, before these transformations can happen, proper preparation is needed to ensure a smooth and efficient renovation process.
The Checklist for Pre-Renovation
Before the construction starts, go through this checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked in your preparation. Below is a list that covers the key points to consider:
- Designate a Temporary Kitchen: choose an area in your home and equip it with essential appliances and supplies.
- Secure Belongings: remove kitchen items and protect furniture and valuables throughout the house.
- Plan for Family and Pets: prepare family members for disruptions, and arrange a safe space for pets.
- Notify Neighbors: let them know about the potential for expected noise during the duration of the renovation.
- Understand Your Schedule: be clear on the timeline, including start and end dates, and possible delays.
- Set a Budget Buffer: have extra funds on hand for unexpected costs that you may encounter.
- Have a Contingency Plan: prepare for potential hiccups, including alternative cooking and takeout options.
You can either print this page so you can easily reference this list, or jot down the key points to use for later.
Laying the Groundwork for Your Renovation
The first step is the demolition but before the demolition begins, it’s important to have a well-thought-out plan in place. This involves design aspects but also practical preparations that will affect your daily living during the process.
Establishing a Temporary Kitchen
During the renovation you’ll be without a functioning kitchen for a while, so setting up a temporary kitchen is good idea. This temporary space doesn’t need to be large or elaborate, but it should be functional enough to facilitate basic meal preparation and light cooking if needed.
To set up your temporary kitchen, first designate an area of your home – such as the dining room or a corner of the living room – that you will be using. It’s better if this area is far from the construction that’s happening but is still easily accessible.
Start by moving all the smaller appliances you will need like the microwave, the toaster, and the coffee maker to this area. You can even purchase a mini fridge to store important food items, and maybe purchase a slow cooker so you can still cook a hot meal while the renovation is happening.
Also, create a convenient system for dishwashing too. You can use the bathroom or basement sink, or create a makeshift dishwashing station outside or in your garage. Just ensure you have access to hot water and a place to dry the dishes.
One easy solution that will make life much easier during the renovation is to purchase disposable utensils and plates so you can minimize dish washing.
Securing Your Household Belongings
You’re going to want to secure and cover all your household belongings – especially those from the kitchen – because the dust and debris that’s generated during the renovation can spread throughout your home. This dust and debris can potentially cause damage to your furniture and other items so ensuring they’re out of the way or properly covered is a must.
First start by removing everything from your kitchen. This includes appliances, utensils, food, dishes and household decorations like pictures, magazines and books. This can also be a good time to declutter and decide what you’ll keep, donate, or discard.
Simple pack and store items you plan to reuse in the new kitchen to a safe and secure location.
Dust has a way of getting everywhere so it’s wise to cover your furniture – especially in adjacent rooms – but worry not because the renovation team will seal off the doorways with plastic sheeting so valuable items will be kept dust free.
Items like electronics or heirlooms should be stored in closed rooms or off-site.
Planning for Family Adjustments
Because there will be a lot going on during the kitchen reno, your daily routine will undoubtedly be disrupted during the process and can also be a bit challenging for families with children or pets.
A good started is to actually discuss the upcoming changes with your family. Prepare your children by talking to them about the noise levels and the areas of the house that will be off-limits. You can also discuss how sleep and meal routines will change during the renovation and assure them it’s only temporary.
For some pets, the loud noises and the strangers walking throughout the home can be quite stressful too. If you’re worried about how they will react you might want to consider arranging for them to stay with a friend or at least make sure they have a quiet, safe space to feel comfortable, and far enough from the construction zone.
Embracing the New Chapter
Just remember that a kitchen renovation is not merely a physical transformation but a lifestyle change. While the process can at times feel overwhelming, proper preparation truly eases the transition. By setting up functional temporary spaces, safeguarding your belongings, and mentally preparing your family, you pave the way for a less stressful renovation and a more enjoyable experience.
Remember, this is just a temporary phase before your new kitchen is unveiled – a space blending aesthetics with 21st-century efficiency, and ready to host countless future memories.
You can click the link below for more information on the renovation process which will help you get prepared for the big day!