Top 10 Things to Keep in Mind When Doing a Home Reno

It’s stressful, dirty, time-consuming, costly and annoying. A home reno can be so bad, but the results can be so good!

1. Rent a Shipping Container to Store Your Belongings

Your home will quickly turn into a messy construction site, making it hard to keep your furniture, appliances and personal belongings clean and safe from utter destruction.

Renting a shipping container from TargetBox allows you to keep everything secure – right on-site – while keeping the work area clear for your contractor and trades. 

TargetBox containers are available in two different sizes, so you can store everything from boxes of books to entire homes!

2. Set a Realistic Budget

No matter the location, contractor or room, renovations often cost more than you think. You can create a budget that includes a cushion for unexpected expenses and stick to it. (As much as you can.) 

Take time to preplan, researching all of the costs for materials, labour, permits and extra fees to ensure there are no surprises down the road. Lean on your contractor, but still expect extra costs to creep in

3. Hire a Contractor…a Good One

Take the time to hire a contractor you trust. Read reviews, ask for recommendations and interview multiple candidates before making a decision. A reliable contractor will be transparent about timelines, costs and potential challenges.

4. Assume Delays

Renovations rarely go exactly as planned. Stormy weather, supply shortages and structural unknowns can all delay progress. Budget extra time to avoid frustration, and be pleasantly surprised when things go as scheduled.

5. Get Permits

I hope this isn’t news to you, but many renovation projects require permits, especially for major structural changes, electrical additions and plumbing work.

What’s your other option? You may get fined by your by-law officer or significantly delay your project. It’s always best to check with your local building authority (usually your municipality) early in the planning process.

6. Protect Your Home from Dust, Debris and Damage

Disrupting your home is inevitable during any renovation, but this can be minimized by sealing the reno areas with plastic. Although another cost to add to your budget, closing off vents, entryways, and windows will help to keep the rest of your home clean and reduce your after-renovation cleaning costs. 

Renting a shipping container also helps, as you can clear the work area from all of your valuables and furniture, reducing the risk of damage and easing the time you spend cleaning up afterward.

7. Think of Your Neighbours

Construction can be noisy and disruptive. Let your neighbours know about your plans and give them a heads-up on the timeline. Being considerate will help maintain good relationships.

8. Create a Design With Function (and Fun!)

While the look of your new space is important, functionality should be high on the list too. Make sure your renovation does more than the old space did and improves your life. 

There are many things to think about: storage, lighting, flooring texture, windows and more. Consider it all!

9. Pick the Right Time to Renovate

Consider everything: seasonal factors like weather, temperature and workload; holiday factors like lifestyle and family activities; and financial factors like when you will most likely have extra money to be able to afford your ultimate renovation.

10. Have a Temporary ‘Renovation Living’ Plan

And #10 on our list…Whether you’re hoteling it for a while or living with your renovation project, it’s best to manage. 

Sometimes temporarily moving out is best, even if it’s just a few days or a few weeks. Don’t forget that renting a TargetBox shipping container allows you to store your belongings without cluttering your temporary space, whether it’s at a hotel, in-law’s place or backyard tent.

TargetBox Rentals for Renovations are Available for You

With proper planning and the right tools, you can reduce the hassle of your renovation. TargetBox drops off your container right where you need it, then picks it up when you’re done.

Request your free quote on our secure website right now!