Five tips for surviving a home renovation

Home renovation projects are almost always stressful, but with a little preparation, you’ll survive. Here are five tips for getting through your home renovation with your sanity intact.

1. Plan everything: make a timeline, buy all the materials you’ll need and line up all the contractors before starting.

2. Flexibility is key: projects almost always take longer and cost more than expected, and there’s always a chance that something won’t go according to plan.

3. Be ready for dust: it will get everywhere. Remove everything from the room, cover furniture and electronics and clean every day.

4. Splurge on a dream item: whether it’s a professional gas range in the kitchen or the perfect soaker tub for your bathroom, a splurge like this is great motivation for getting through the renovation.

5. Make a construction free zone: you’ll need a place to relax that’s free of dirt and dust, especially if you live with children or pets. If you’re without a kitchen for a while, include a bar fridge and microwave.

When all else fails, try to get out of the house for a weekend to take your mind off of what’s happening at home.