Home remodeling projects can be quite exciting, but the one thing that could mar this excitement is the daunting thought of putting up with and going through the lengthy and sometimes excruciating process. One of the significant decisions that can stretch your stress level to the limit is whether to live through the construction or move out temporarily during remodeling. It is a tough call that depends on several factors, but here are the essential aspects that you should consider and the specific benefits of opting to move out temporarily in comparison with staying in the house throughout the remodeling timeframe.

 

  1.  Size of the Project

The type and size of remodeling project can essentially answer the stay-or-move-out question; however, bear in mind that size here does not merely refer to the square footage of the project. Take into account the following elements to determine the appropriate choice.

  1. Scope.  If the remodeling involves more than half of your home or requires gutting walls to the bare studs, your home may not be fit to live in. Also you should consider the interruption of electrical and plumbing services, which is almost always the case in major remodeling projects. In such circumstances, finding an alternative temporary dwelling arrangement can significantly alleviate the level of inconvenience and discomfort.
  2. Purpose. Large-scale remodeling projects that entail removing your entire roof or even portions of it (such as building a second story, for instance) or renovations that require your house to be raised up generally necessitate cutting off electricity and plumbing services, as well as heating and air conditioning. Without those services, it would be near-impossible for you to stay in the house and remain comfortable. If you know that heating or cooling your home is out of the equation or living under a huge canvas or tarpaulin in lieu of the roof is the most likely scenario, take it as your cue to look for temporary accommodation.
  3. Affected/Impacted Areas. Think of the areas in your home that you will have limited or no access to at all while the remodeling project is ongoing and whether or not you can still function without being able to use those spaces. If you’re tearing out your bathroom for much-needed repairs, a second bath that can be used is a definite advantage. If you only have one bathroom you can either set up temporary bathing facilities or do without – for several weeks. The same is true when renovating the kitchen; you need to have other means of preparing and cooking meals or opt to dine out every time. If you’re doing modifications to any of your living spaces, you will be compelled to somehow find a “sacred space” for everyone. Just keep in mind that a single room where everybody can huddle does not necessarily constitute a home. Thus, it would be more prudent to simply move out temporarily and arrange for transitory place to stay.

2.   Length/Duration of Project

The time it will take to finish the remodeling project versus how long you can live with the inconvenience and discomfort can naturally influence your decision whether to stay or temporarily leave. If you are a stay-at-home parent or mostly home during the day, consider the impact the remodeling project will have on your ability to work and to what extent will daytime or evening activities be restricted. Take note that even if you opt to stay, there will still be some occasions in the course of the remodeling work that will require you to leave the house for a few days anyway.

3.   Health Issues and Safety Concerns

Dusty, dirty and noisy – that about sums it up when the remodeling project is underway. Living in a place that is being remodeled is worse than living in a ramshackle house. All the hammering, drilling, trash materials and dust everywhere contribute to the making of a very unhealthy environment and hardly conducive to a restful and relaxing atmosphere that one expects to find at home. Think of the ill-effects (especially among children and elderly folks in the house) of constantly breathing in dust, lead paint or asbestos; perhaps tripping over debris, or being unduly exposed to the elements/forces of weather. These crucial instances underscore the practicality of moving out and living in temporary housing while remodeling work is being carried out; it is absolutely worth contemplating.

4.   Mental Stress and the Level of Tolerance to Inconvenience

Every remodeling project has a different level of inconvenience and largely hinges on your ability to cope. Still, the general commotion and visual chaos that come along with remodeling can take its toll when your home becomes a construction zone. Daily routines will be disrupted; cleanliness will be totally unheard of and private spaces will become “public” or free for all to a certain degree. The stress of having your life turned upside down could go on from a few weeks to months, at which time pressure could build up, making frustrations run high. Think outside of the box to take the stress off – or in this case, literally move out of the remodeling site and save yourself from the mental anguish. There is definitely an emotional benefit to be gained if you do not “listen, hear, see, or smell” the clutter and the disarray as the project continues.

5.   Reasonable Space for the Experts

Apparently (and quite understandably), the homeowner would want to be “in the know” about everything that goes on during the renovation; however, the key question is: Will your presence be helpful or will it be a hindrance in expediting the progress of the remodeling project? The best builders and construction companies will put every effort to make things relatively trouble-free for you, at the same time minimize the intrusion to your daily life as much as possible, but you should be aware that the initial weeks could get really awful and the crew will be a lot more productive if they work in an unoccupied house. Concerns such as overseeing the progress and apprehension about turning over your home to the workers are justifiable. Hence, it is imperative that you spend adequate time with a reliable and trustworthy construction company for extensive planning and discussion regarding such issues as the schedule. You can personally view the progress and quality of work on a daily basis – perhaps at the end of the day, right after the crew has left, which can also be a good opportunity to note concerns and to prepare questions that may be discussed in the morning. The remodeling process can be done smoothly and at a much faster pace if the workers don’t have to work around current living space. Given that this will considerably reduce the time it would take to complete the project, it could be worth it to move out temporarily.

6.   Financial/Budget Concerns

Trying to save on rental costs is most likely one of the big reasons that homeowners opt to stay home through the duration of remodeling. However, it may surprise many to realize that in most cases, it can cost even more to keep a livable home while major remodeling is being done. Some construction companies typically offer a lower price if they know that the crew can work without being hampered by occupants. Charges are much higher for remodeling projects where homeowners decide to stay, mainly to cover additional costs in protection, cleanup, and rushing to finish mechanical work to quickly restore interruptions to plumbing and electrical services. It may be more economical for homeowners to pay the cost of temporary housing as it can often be offset with the step-up in the work schedule. Although you can probably save in rental cost if you choose to stay in the house while it is being remodeled, it may not even be commensurate if you consider the variables from the quality-of-life perspective. The definite advantage of moving out temporarily – despite the added cost and the required adjustments – is you can still maintain a relatively comfortable and less troublesome living condition while waiting for the completion of your house remodeling project.

Comfort and Safety – Its Significance to Your Decision

Notwithstanding the exhilaration and anticipation, major home remodeling can be extremely demanding and foremost among its many concerns is the question of whether to continue occupying the home during the remodeling or to temporarily move out. Fineline Construction believes that the affect on your family’s quality of life should be a primary consideration when you undertake a major home remodeling project. Keeping your family comfortable and safe should be the principal driver behind your decision, and just like you, Fineline Construction considers it to be of the utmost importance. This is precisely why we recommend that you move out temporarily during the course of remodeling – to keep your family away from any unfavorable effect.