It is Possible—With the Right Planning
Living at home during a major renovation can feel overwhelming—but with the right plan in place, it is entirely possible to stay safe, comfortable, and sane. Whether you are remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or your entire first floor, the key is to prepare your home—and your mindset—for the disruption ahead. In this post, we will walk you through expert strategies for staying at home while your project is underway.
Create a Daily Routine with Your Contractor
Start by working with your contractor to set clear expectations. Establish working hours, access points, cleanup procedures, and daily check-ins to keep everyone aligned. Knowing what’s happening (and when) reduces stress and helps you plan around the noise and activity. At Cipriani, we help homeowners build a predictable rhythm so they always feel in control—even during demolition.
- Confirm daily start and end times so you know when to expect activity.
- Designate a primary entrance and traffic flow to minimize disruption.
- Schedule regular updates so you’re never left wondering what’s next.
With a little structure and open communication, your project can feel far less chaotic day to day.
Set Up Temporary Living Zones
If your kitchen is under construction, carve out a temporary space with essentials like a mini fridge, microwave, and paper goods. During bathroom remodels, consider scheduling renovations in phases so at least one bathroom remains usable. Create a quiet room or “retreat zone” in another part of the house to escape the chaos when needed. These small adjustments go a long way in maintaining comfort.
- Prep a kitchenette in another room with basic appliances and disposable items.
- Renovate bathrooms one at a time to keep daily routines intact.
- Choose a “no construction” zone for quiet time, remote work, or unwinding.
Comfort is possible—you just need to think creatively about how to shift your routines.
Control Dust, Debris, and Disruption
Your contractor should use protective measures like plastic barriers, floor coverings, and zip-wall systems to seal off work zones. If you’re staying in the home, ask about HEPA filters or air scrubbers to help with air quality. Turning off the HVAC during active work can prevent dust from circulating. Cleanliness isn’t just about appearances—it’s about safety and peace of mind.
- Ask your contractor to use floor-to-ceiling plastic barriers and protective floor coverings.
- Inquire about air scrubbers to filter dust and improve indoor air quality.
- Temporarily shut off HVAC vents in construction zones to reduce contamination.
Taking these extra steps helps protect your home—and your health—throughout the project.
Keep Kids and Pets Safe
Construction zones can pose risks for little ones and furry family members. Make sure work areas are completely off-limits with physical barriers and locked doors. Schedule walks, playdates, or daycare during loud or dusty phases. When possible, communicate ahead of time about which days will be most disruptive so you can plan accordingly.
- Use baby gates, child locks, or closed doors to block access to active work areas.
- Plan pet daycare or outdoor time during loud construction phases.
- Stay in sync with your project schedule so you can prepare for especially disruptive days.
When safety is a priority, you’ll feel more relaxed knowing your family is protected.
Plan Smart and Partner with the Right Team
The reality is, a remodel will temporarily disrupt your routines—but with the right team, it does not have to disrupt your life. Working with a contractor who values cleanliness, communication, and care makes all the difference. At Cipriani Remodeling Solutions, we help homeowners plan, stay informed, and feel confident every step of the way. Thinking about remodeling but not sure how to live through it? Let’s talk. We will help you create a game plan that keeps your life and your home running smoothly — get started with a free consultation today!