sink. This is not easy for the client but it saves the cost of other living arrangements during the renovation. As for additions, the majority of work can be completed without disturbing the existing home. Therefore, it is possible to stay in the home for a significant portion of the renovation and, if you choose, only vacate for part of the time. Exterior renovations, such as siding, windows, doors, decks, and roofing rarely require relo- cation as the interior of the home experi- ences minimal disturbance. Consideration should be given for protection of shrubs, flowers, lawn and driveway from construction debris and equipment. Regardless of the renovation scope of work, it is always important to plan for the disrup- tion and discuss details with your contrac- tor. One item which should be discussed is family pets. Dogs, cats, and other animals can find strang- ers in the home and the noise to be stressful, not to mention a work site can be danger- ous for our 4-legged friends. It is important to consider their health and safety during a renovation. Security is another item to be considered if you are relocating during a renovation. If you are not home, you will have to plan and make arrangements with your contrac- tor to ensure your home is secure and have someone responsible for checking on your home on a daily basis. All reputable con- tractors have a security procedure which
By Dan Monk, P.Eng., Red Seal Carpenter and Owner of MONK Renovations L iving in your home during a renovation has its chal- lenges, namely inconvenience. A renovation is disrup- tive to daily routine because work crews will be in your home at 8 am and there will be dust, noise, etc. All profes- sional contra tors will do their best to minimize the disrup- tion but it cannot be completely eliminated. Not all clients wish to have these disruptions to their lives and may choose to relocate during a renovation. A hotel, cottage, short term rentals, travel trailer, in-laws, etc. are all options our clients have chosen in the past. More often than not, our clients remain in their homes during their renovation. We have even completed whole home renovations with a client remaining in the home. This requires patience and understanding from the client and communication and attention to detail from the contractor. Bathrooms tend to be one of the greatest disturbances as they take 1-2 weeks to complete and, unless you have another bath in the home, it requires daily adaptations. We can often re-install a toilet at the end of each work day, however the shower/tub will not be available and other arrangements must be made, such as going to a friend’s place or the gym for personal hygiene. Kitchens are a significant focal point of the home and they take 3-6 weeks to complete. Often the stove and fridge can be temporarily relocated. Cooking can be done in another room or the garage or the BBQ can be used. The bathroom or laundry sink can be used as an alternative to the kitchen
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • MARCH 2018
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