TO OVERCOME THE CHALLENGES OF REMODELING PROCESS – Things happen!

Remodeling process can be challenging when you are not aware of events that may happen. However, knowing what kind of unexpected events may happen will significantly lessen your stress. And although these problems occasionally happen, we will work with you to minimize following problems.

Some of the typical problems that you may come across during the remodeling process are:

* Late delivery of products

* Delivery of faulty materials

* Misunderstanding that comes from miscommunication

* Messy areas – dusty floors, termites found in delivered materials…etc

* Damp walls from pipes leaking

* Structural problems that is in need of change/repair

* Removing lead paint and Asbestos

By knowing what is coming ahead, you have already prepared yourself for the construction process.

We recommend that you do these before the actual construction begins

* Keep track of the timeline, and follow along the steps of the construction process. This will help you know what will happen next, and be more at ease.

* Settle with the contractor and decide whether you want him/her to start demolition before or after the products arrive. Although having the construction started early may seem like you are saving time, you may also not be able to use the space for a longer period of time.

* Before the construction starts, we will clarify who will be in charge of what. This is important, because we need to be able to pull construction permits – electrical, mechanical, building, and etc – before any work begins.

* Discuss with our designers or contractors to find out where to store the materials. These materials need someplace to be stored until they are ready to be installed.

* Pack up and store items that you will not be needing during the construction process to guard them from any damage.

* Remove any mirrors, frames, or other furniture off of the wall beside the renovating space. The wall may vibrate from the construction and damage any items that may be hanging on the wall.

* We recommend that you begin packing the contents of your cabinets as early as a week before the construction, starting with the items that you use the least. Keep the ones that you will more likely use in a separate box.

* If you reside in a multi-storied building with freight elevators, be sure to reserve them for days you expect product delivery

* If installing new cabinets are out of your budget, considering reinstalling your old cabinets.

* You do not always have to throw away your old cabinets. Consider donating them to non-profit companies.

Dust Management

* We recommend you to protect what you will not be able to remove. Floors should be covered at all times during the construction, and dust curtains should be hung to protect the non-working area and define the pathway for workers to enter and exit. Plastic covering can be used to protect other furniture that are close to the work area.

* In case construction dust might get into your air conditioning filter, prepare extra filters beforehand. We recommend that the air conditioning/heating system will be turned off when workmen are sanding.

* Request to have the working area swept at the end of the day to clean off the dust.

* It might be a good idea to have the furniture, and other appliances stored elsewhere until they are ready for installation. If necessary, rent a storage area during the renovation.

Surviving a Kitchen renovation – Cooking and Eating

* You might find non-perishable food such as microwaveable meals, cereals, and canned food vital during the kitchen renovation

* For a certain period of time, you will not have access to water in the kitchen. You might want to consider doing dishes in other areas such as bathroom sink. If not, stock up on disposable paper goods.

* If possible, create an alternate kitchen by bringing in a microwave and moving the refrigerator close to the water source.

* In case you get tired of microwaveable meals, invest in a portable gas burner or hot plate.

* Or stock up on restaurant coupons that you may want to use to take a break from microwaveable meals.

* It might be a good idea to cook meals beforehand and have it frozen, so that it can be easily reheated for supper.

To Avoid Miscommunication

* If you have children or pets, make sure you let the workmen know so that they may more cautious when working.

* Define a pathway and gate for product deliveries

* In case the workmen do not bring a portable toilet / temporary restroom, designate a restroom for them.

* Exchange numbers with your contractors, as it makes it easier for everyone to communicate when there is a need. Also, have your cell phone charged at all times!

* Set aside a chalkboard/whiteboard where you can leave a message to the workmen and vice versa. It is a handy way to communicate when you away.

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