Ed Bullock, AIA
Architect at CEBArchitecture www.cebarch.com
As an architect who designs new homes, additions and remodels, I often work with homeowners who need to deal with the logistics of accommodating a construction project into their lives. In an extensive remodel or even just a kitchen renovation, families, especially those with small children, sometimes find it necessary to temporarily move out of their home to avoid the noise, mess and hazards of construction as well as to give the contractor room to work without damaging the homeowner’s belongings or peace of mind. In considering whether to live or stay in the home while it is being renovated, one needs to consider several factors.
First determine if the home will be livable during construction. Will the kitchen, bath room and other areas critical for habitation be available for your use? Will electrical power, heating and air conditioning be working when you need it? If you cannot use the parts of your home that are critical to your lifestyle for an extended period, it may make sense to find temporary lodgings elsewhere.
Secondly, weigh your tolerance of the noise, dirt and debris that comes with construction. If you and your family are not around while construction activities take place, then noise is not an issue, at least for you. Dirt, debris and exposure to weather can be isolated to the areas under construction in some cases, but sometimes it cannot. Be prepared to discuss this early in the design process rather than waiting to find out during construction that your belongings are covered with drywall dust or soaked by leaking water and your piece of mind is shattered. Safety is another matter and the most important. There are plenty of ways to get hurt at a construction site, especially if it is your home. Do not stay in a hazardous location if you can avoid it.
Third, consider whether moving out of your home to accommodate or speed the renovations will justify the additional cost of finding temporary lodging. If you want to consider it, the cost of moving and renting another home or apartment would need to be factored into the overall project budget.
There is value in working with knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the design and construction of a home improvement project. While some people prefer to do the work themselves, skilled professionals can speed completion and assure quality of the work while minimizing damage to the existing construction. It also makes sense to consider experience and reliability in finding someone to deal with the packing, transporting and handling of large, heavy or valuable belongings. Just as I would want a skilled carpenter, plumber or electrician to handle the challenging work of construction, I would also look for someone qualified to do the heavy lifting of my belongings as well.
Pack n send has reprinted this article from Ed Bullock, AIA.
Ed’s website is www.cebarch.com. As an experience architect, Ed’s advice is important to consider when remodeling your home or office.
For advice on moving or preparing your home for a remodeling job, please feel free to contact pack n send at 713 266 1450.
We pick up & deliver worldwide, as well as in our backyard.