During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people turned to home renovation projects as a way to pass the time and a way to spruce up the spaces they were suddenly spending a lot more time in.
If you’re thinking about tackling some home improvement projects now, there are a few things you should do and keep in mind. Here, we’ll discuss some of the challenges COVID-19 has brought to the home improvement industry and what you can expect during your renovations.
Planning Home Renovations During COVID-19
Nearly every industry has been impacted by the pandemic, and the home improvement industry is no exception. Whether that means manufacturing delays, shipping delays, or a shortage of employees, we’re working to keep your projects moving along as quickly as possible.
During renovations, it’s important to stay calm and flexible during your projects. This is important any time, but it’s crucial right now.
Here are a few ways you can set your projects up for success and keep your stress levels as low as possible:
1. Prioritize Your Projects
Your list doesn’t mean you’ll tackle projects in this exact order, just that you’d like to. You will likely have to move around your list. Remember to stay flexible!
Create a list of the projects you want to tackle. If there are any areas of your home that need immediate attention because of structural or safety issues, put those at the top of your list. Areas that just need cosmetic repairs or updates should go lower on the list.
2. Look at What You Can DIY First
Out of your list of projects, which can you DIY? This will save you time and money, in addition to keeping the number of people in your home to a minimum. Popular DIY home improvement projects include:
- Painting
- Refinishing or painting cabinets
- Refinishing wooden furniture
- Reorganizing, including adding new shelves or storage solutions
- Updating the handles and drawer pulls on your cabinets and furniture
- Sprucing up your outdoor space, like repairing your deck, landscaping, adding window boxes, or replacing pavers
There are a lot more DIY projects you may be able to complete, depending on your skill level. In addition to upgrading your home safely, some of these projects will also increase your home’s value!
3. Plan Your Timeframe
A realistic timeframe is often hard to plan for under normal circumstances, and it’s even harder during a pandemic. You should expect projects to take longer than they normally would, due to manufacturing and shipping delays. It may also take longer than usual to get any permits you may need. The additional time needed to complete a project may be as little as an additional week, or as long as several months.
If you are hiring a contractor or company to do your renovations, ask them about any delays they’re experiencing. Most contractors are upfront and will let you know how long you should expect your project to take.
4. Decide How Much Construction You Can Handle
If you’re working from home or your kids are learning virtually, you probably aren’t in a position to have a construction crew in your house day after day for weeks. Decide how long you’ll be able to comfortably live and work in your home while it’s under construction.
For example, a full kitchen remodel would probably cause a lot of headaches and disruption right now. But maybe you can handle having new countertops installed. An entirely new bathroom is probably out of the question, but maybe a new vanity is within the realm of possibility.
5. Do Extra Research on Contractors
This is sound advice any time you’re doing a renovation, but it’s especially important during such a chaotic time. If you have a company or contractor that you have previously used or you trust, they may not be available when you’re ready. If that’s the case, properly vet prospective contractors by asking more questions than you normally would, especially about safety precautions, delays, and what you can expect. Don’t forget to read reviews on Google, Yelp, or sites like Angie’s List.
Choose Window World for Safe, Smooth Renovations
When you choose Window World for new windows, entry doors, or siding, you’re choosing a locally-owned and operated company who understands the challenges of home renovation right now. With easy installation and convenient virtual consultations, we’re here to make updating your windows and doors as safe and easy as possible. Get started by requesting your free estimate today!