Can I Stay Home During a Remodel? What You Need to Know

If you're thinking about a Front Range Colorado home renovation—a kitchen or bathroom remodel, or basement finishing project, for example—you're likely asking yourself:

Can I remain in my home while the job is being accomplished?

Let's address that question straightforwardly. The quick answer is, it depends—on the project size, your home's layout, and your tolerance for dust, noise, and upheaval. Don't worry, though—this blog post will walk you through what to anticipate and how to plan for a stress-free remodel.

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Is It Possible to Live at Home While Remodeling? Let's Break It Down.

1️⃣ What type of remodel are you doing?

Not all remodels are created equal. Here's a brief primer:

Small Remodels (Such as One Bedroom or Bathroom)

• You can generally remain stationary, with little interruption—particularly if the work zone is cutoff and you possess an additional bathroom or living area to utilize.

Kitchen Remodels

• You may remain at home, but anticipate that you will not be able to use your kitchen for 3–8 weeks. You will probably need to temporarily arrange for a microwave, toaster oven, and mini-refrigerator in the dining room (or another area of your home).

Large-Scale or Whole-Home Remodels

• If several rooms are being constructed/remodeled—or if work such as plumbing, electricity, or flooring affects your whole home—it might be easier to relocate in the short term.

Finishing a Basement

• The majority of homeowners are able to stay in their homes during a basement finishing project (or remodel) since the work is isolated beneath the main living area.

Additions or Major Structural Work

• If the renovation includes drilling holes in your home's exterior, major demolition, or substantial system renovations, it might be best to move out for a while.

2️⃣ How Disruptive Will the Work Be?

Even a minor renovation can introduce dust, noise, and disruption into your house. Be ready for:

• Dust and debris: Despite dust barriers, particles do circulate. Allergic to allergens? You may want to stay elsewhere during particularly dusty stages.

  
  

• Noise: Expect hammering, sawing, and power tools—especially with demo, framing, and finish phases.

  
  

• Limited access: Certain rooms or areas will be restricted during the project.

  
  

• Safety issues: Open wiring, exposed walls, and tools are safety issues—particularly for children and pets.

3️⃣ Tips for Surviving a Remodel While Staying in Place

If you do stay, the following are some tips for how to make it work:

Create a Temporary Kitchen or Living Area

• Give food, coffee, and relaxation their own space.

Create a Daily Schedule with Your Contractor

• Find out when noisy or dirty work is to be done so you can schedule around it.

Communicate Frequently

• Keep in touch with your contractor to prevent surprises.

Plan for Comfort

• Guard valuables, look into an air purifier, and don't neglect your sanity breaks—perhaps spend some afternoons at a nearby coffee shop or park.

4️⃣ When Is It Better to Move Out Temporarily?

You might want to consider staying elsewhere (with family, at a rental, or a short-term Airbnb) if:

• You have small children, pets, or allergies

• You’re doing a major kitchen or bathroom remodel with no backup options

• Your remodel affects HVAC, water, or electricity for multiple days (consecutively)

• You’re doing major structural changes (like an addition)

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The Bottom Line

Yes, you can possibly remain in the house for most remodels, but it is not necessarily the most desirable choice. It is a matter of the project's size, your tolerance level, and your family's individual needs.

At Alpine Home Repairs, we've guided hundreds of Front Range Colorado homeowners through the remodeling process. We'll take you through what to expect, assist you in determining whether it's wisest to remain in your home, and do all we can to limit disruption—so you can begin enjoying your newly finished space again as quickly as possible.

Thinking About a Remodel?

Whether you're doing a bathroom remodel, a kitchen renovation, or a whole-house makeover, we can assist.

📞Give us a call today at Alpine Home Repairs to book your free consultation and get your remodel off on the right foot.

Alpine Home Repairs