fbpx

The One Important Question That’s Often Never Asked!

Interior Picture with a chair to the left and desk to the right. Window in the center and chandelier above window.

When planning a home remodel, many different questions arise, including timeframe, materials, subcontractors, and budget. But often, one important question is overlooked, and therefore, unasked: “How will you protect my home during the remodel?”

For most homeowners, their home is their largest financial asset. Typically, when one chooses to invest in remodeling, their goal is to not only have a beautiful new space but to also increase the value of their home. But to press further, homeowners should also want to maintain and protect what’s already in place, too, for example, any hardwood floors, carpeting, windows, and fixtures. When home protection is not at the forefront of a remodel, the repercussions can be aggravating and costly.

So, how would a potential contractor protect your home during a remodel? Before we dig deeper into this question, think about this on multiple levels—protecting not just the inside of your home, but the outside too. And protective measures to maintain cleanliness as well! When contractors keep a clean job site, they’re often also maintaining a safe job site, too! Cleanliness and protection go hand-in-hand, and therefore it’s important that homeowners address it with their potential contractor.

There are several measures contractors can & should take to protect your home; many of which are basic, but vital. Finished floors should always be protected with dropcloths and/or plastic. Any breakable items should be removed and stored safely away, including any wall fixtures. Depending upon the space and the area that’s being remodeled, ZipWalls can be installed to make a barrier from the rest of the house and keep dust & particulates at bay. At DBS, we also implement the use of a BuildClean unit, which includes a hose that’s piped to the outside and sucks up 90% of the dust. At the completion of each day, contractors should take the necessary precautions to put away any tools, ladders, extension cords, and paint, especially if children and pets are present!

Other defenses that fall under the umbrella of protection include the removal of debris and where it will be placed. Bear in mind any outdoor renovations, too, such as deck and siding. If contractors aren’t mindful of nails and materials, you as a homeowner could end up needing new tires from misplaced nails and screws. Additionally, think about the presence of any subcontractors that may be needed for your remodel, for instance, plumbers or electricians. If they are under the direction of a contractor that’s not mindful, they as a sub may be careless with their work, too, or may have to work around someone else’s carelessness.

Protecting your home goes stud-deep! Contractors not only need to protect the outside finishes, but also what’s underneath it, including subfloors, electrical, and ductwork to name a few. When you ask, “how will you protect my home during the remodel?” pay attention to the response you receive. Does it seem thought out, or like an afterthought? Does it seem important? Is cleanliness addressed? And, do they consider the many tiers that encompass protection? Asking this question is not only imperative but it can help keep frustrations from arising and unnecessary expenditures from happening! When investing in a home remodel, invest in a contractor who cares about your home and protecting it!

Read About “Four Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid”

Check Out Our Education Page For More Helpful Information