How do I handle living in my home during a major renovation?

Living through a major renovation requires careful planning, realistic expectations, and strategic temporary setups to maintain your sanity and safety during the construction process.

Planning Your Living Arrangements

The key to surviving a renovation is creating functional temporary spaces before work begins. For kitchen renovations, set up a temporary kitchen in your basement, garage, or spare room with a mini-fridge, microwave, electric kettle, and basic supplies. You'll need access to running water, so consider connecting a utility sink if your temporary space doesn't have one. For bathroom renovations, ensure you have access to at least one functioning bathroom - if you're renovating your only bathroom, consider renting a portable unit or staying with family during the most intensive phases.

Managing Daily Life and Logistics

Dust control becomes your biggest challenge during major renovations. Professional contractors will use plastic sheeting and negative air machines to contain dust, but some will still escape. Pack away clothing, electronics, and valuable items in sealed containers. Plan to eat out more frequently or rely on simple meals that don't require much prep space. Stock up on paper plates, disposable utensils, and easy-to-prepare foods before construction begins.

Ottawa-Specific Considerations

In Ottawa's climate, timing matters significantly for your comfort. Winter renovations mean you'll be dealing with construction dust while windows and doors remain closed, concentrating odors and particles. However, winter can be ideal for interior work since you're not losing outdoor living space. Spring and summer renovations allow for better ventilation but may disrupt outdoor entertaining seasons. Most Ottawa contractors work 7 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, with limited Saturday work, so plan your schedule around these hours.

Health and Safety During Construction

Protect your family's health by establishing clean zones where no construction materials or workers enter. This might be bedrooms on an upper floor or a finished basement area. Ensure proper ventilation in occupied areas, and consider air purifiers for rooms you're still using. If anyone in your household has respiratory issues, discuss this with your contractor - they may recommend additional dust control measures or suggest temporary relocation during the messiest phases.

Communication and Expectations

Establish daily check-ins with your contractor to understand the next day's work and any disruptions to utilities. Most reputable Ottawa contractors will provide detailed schedules and give you advance notice of when water, electricity, or heat might be temporarily shut off. Keep emergency supplies like flashlights, battery-powered radios, and extra water on hand.

When to Consider Temporary Relocation

Some renovations are simply too disruptive for comfortable living. Full kitchen and bathroom renovations happening simultaneously, major electrical work requiring power shutoffs, or structural work affecting multiple rooms may warrant temporary relocation. Many Ottawa homeowners find short-term rental apartments or extended-stay hotels more economical than the stress and potential health impacts of living in active construction zones.

For a free consultation about minimizing disruption during your specific renovation project, contact Justyn Rook Contracting. We specialize in phased renovation approaches that help families stay comfortable in their homes throughout the construction process.