How To Survive Your Kitchen Renovation
Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen gut or just a few cosmetic changes, undergoing a kitchen renovation is no small feat. It can be disruptive, messy, and expensive. And if you’re planning to do the work yourself, it can also be dangerous.
Even the most minor kitchen renovations usually require that the power be shut off to the room, which means working with tools in close proximity to water lines. So, before you take on a kitchen renovation, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare your home—and yourself—for the ordeal. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
First, if at all possible, try to avoid living in your home while the work is being done. If that’s not an option, make sure to set up a makeshift kitchen in another room of the house. A hot plate, mini fridge, and toaster oven should do the trick. And speaking of cooking, gather all of the necessary pots, pans, and silverware ahead of time so you’re not left scrambling when it’s time to eat. It’s also a good idea to use disposable utensils and dishes while construction is ongoing. This will greatly simplify cleanup.
If you must live in your home during construction, stock up on ready-to-eat foods like granola bars and microwaveable meals. This way you won’t have to cook as much—and what cooking you do have to do will be quick and easy. It’s also a good idea to plan ahead by preparing and freezing some meals ahead of time if possible. Alternatively, take advantage of the opportunity to eat out more frequently. Just remember to budget for it!
Finally, make sure there’s plenty of storage for construction materials like lumber, paint cans, and drop cloths. This will help reduce clutter and make it easier for the workers to move around freely.
Undergoing a kitchen renovation is no small task—but with a little planning and preparation, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By following these simple tips, you can minimize the disruption to your life and make sure that your kitchen renovation goes as smoothly as possible.
