Kitchen remodels can take anywhere from one to three months. Being without a kitchen when the power goes out for an hour can be difficult—let alone a few months, which is why it is important to prepare and plan before you start a project. Follow these 6 steps to help prepare and reduce stress during your project.
1) Set aside the right kitchen tools
Gather cooking utensils and cookware items that are compatible with the microwave, toaster oven, and crockpot as well as tin foil plastic wrap, garbage bags, and sandwich bags. Pack everything else up and move it to a safe place out of the way of the construction area.
2) Make a temporary kitchen
Find another space in your house where you can prepare quick meals. Stock up on ready-to-eat meals, dry and canned goods, and disposable utensils and plates. Make meals before your project starts and freeze then, reheat when you are ready. Crock pots are another easy way to make a home-cooked meal with limited space.
3) Clear the work area
Prevent damage and make it easier for the remodeling team by removing items like TVs, computers, artwork, plants, countertop appliances, and furniture.
4) Reserve a place for construction materials
Clear out an area where the materials for the project can be safely kept.
5) Minimize dust
Although it’s impossible to get rid of all the construction dust, there a few ways to reduce it and prevent it from getting into the other areas of your home. Seal off doorways to the area that is being remodeled. Close all vents on the same floor as the remodel. Clean or change your HVAC filter daily.
6) Keep kids and pets away
Construction zones have many hazards from nails to power tools. When possible, make sure to close, lock, or block doors leading to the remodeling area to keep children and pets safe.
