While home projects are worth it, they tend to disrupt our day-to-day lives. From noise and dust to scheduled water and electricity shutoffs, the remodel experience is anything but relaxing.
But what if you could have an impactful renovation completed while you’re recharging on a summer vacation? Or even just schedule a week away during the loud, dusty part of a large remodel?
You can! Read on for tips for scheduling work during a trip, quick projects to consider, and the best time to plan a trip during a large remodel.
Tips for Home Improvements During a Trip
If you’re going to schedule a construction crew to be in your home while you’re away, first and foremost, make sure it’s a reputable company you can trust. Ensure the company is properly licensed and insured, and has a good reputation backed by stellar reviews. Consider affiliations and accolades with organizations like the Better Business Bureau, the National Kitchen and Bath Association, and Angi.
Other tips include:
- Communicate clearly and frequently: Leave detailed instructions and make sure your contractor knows how to reach you while you’re away. Schedule regular check-ins or video updates to stay informed on progress.
- Secure valuables: Remove or lock up valuables, important documents, and fragile items.
- Set expectations in writing: Confirm all project details, including timeline, budget, materials, and access permissions, in a written contract to help avoid confusion and miscommunication.
- Prep the home for construction: Unplug electronics, move furniture, and cover floors or fixtures to protect them from dust or damage.
- Give access wisely: Use a smart lock or assign a trusted neighbor to manage access. Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places.
- Notify neighbors: Let nearby neighbors know about the work so they can alert you if anything seems off.
- Check your insurance: Verify that your homeowner’s insurance covers renovations and any potential accidents during construction.
Quick Projects to Schedule During Vacation
Want to come home to something brand new welcoming you? Consider one of the following projects:
Refinish the Floors
Refinishing hardwood floors typically takes around three to five days depending on the area size and condition of the existing floors. It’s recommended to be out of the house during the project, due to dust and fumes.
This project requires moving furniture and covering surfaces, so work with your contractor to ensure the house is fully prepped before heading to paradise.
Kitchen Upgrade
You can’t expect a full kitchen remodel to be completed in a week, but consider a refresh. Talk to your contractor about which projects are feasible during the time you’ll be away. A kitchen facelift could include projects like painting, replacing cabinet fronts, swapping out hardware, and installing a new backsplash.
Siding Replacement
For a makeover you can literally see as soon as you pull back into the driveway, consider new siding. A siding replacement project is loud, so why not wait it out from a peaceful location? Just confirm selections before you go.
Bathroom Update
Just like with the kitchen upgrade, there are smaller projects you can have done in the bathroom that make a big impact. Replacing a vanity, installing new tile, updating lighting, or swapping out fixtures can breathe new life into the space. These updates usually don’t require extensive plumbing work, making them easier to complete in your absence.
When to Vacation During a Large Remodel
It’s not realistic to be absent during a major renovation, especially in the phases that require a lot of your input. But if you want a break from the chaos, we recommend hitting the road during the messiest mid-project phases.
The dusty drywall stage (typically 30-40% into a renovation) is ideal for a getaway. Another perfect window occurs during the rough-in work (after demolition is complete but before finishes begin) when plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians are running lines and preparing for inspections.
For shorter trips, consider leaving during countertop fabrication (after cabinets are installed but before countertops arrive) or during the waiting period between flooring installation and fixture placement. These strategic breaks allow you to escape the most disruptive phases while still being present for design choices at the beginning and finish selections at the end.
Communicate your planned absence well in advance with your contractor, who might be able to recommend a good window for a trip.
Request a Consultation
Having work performed around a vacation requires detailed planning and communication. If you’re interested in scheduling a summer home makeover, Central Construction Group would love to discuss your plans. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Call 317-213-6246 or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.
