Renovating while living at home is a bit like camping in your own house. It’s messy, noisy, and inconvenient—but it’s doable with a plan.
Here’s how to keep your sanity while the dust flies.
Start With a Clear Schedule Talk to your contractor about the renovation timeline. Know what’s happening each week, which rooms will be off-limits, and how long it’ll all take. The more you know, the less surprises you’ll face.
Set Up a Temporary Space If you’re redoing the kitchen, create a mini kitchen in another room. A folding table, toaster oven, microwave, and cooler go a long way. For bathroom renovations, plan for shared space or a nearby gym.
Protect What Matters Dust gets everywhere. Use plastic sheeting to seal off work zones. Move or cover furniture. Take down art or breakables. Keep kids and pets out of the mess.
Control the Chaos Label boxes, store essentials where you can reach them, and limit how much stuff you keep out. Less clutter = less stress.
Stick to Routines When You Can Maintain normal wake-up times, meals, and routines to keep things steady. Even a morning coffee ritual can bring a little normal to the madness.
Plan Breaks Whether it’s a weekend at a friend’s place or a few days away, stepping out of the chaos can recharge your patience.
Stay Flexible Delays happen. Materials arrive late. A pipe bursts. Renovations rarely go exactly as planned, so be ready to pivot without losing your cool.
Good Communication Is Everything Check in with your contractor regularly. Make sure you’re on the same page. Clear expectations prevent most issues before they start.
Final Word Living through a renovation isn’t easy—but with some planning, patience, and plastic sheets, it’s totally manageable. Focus on the finish line. That new kitchen, bathroom, or basement will be worth it.
And remember: takeout was made for times like this.