You can give your home a refresh when you update its exterior with fresh paint or siding. But making these kinds of updates isn’t always easy when you’re juggling kids who thrive with predictable routines. After all, extra noise and disruptions can make it hard to function normally, even if the project is happening outside your home’s walls.
Fortunately, it’s possible to keep the stress and disruptions at bay when a construction project is underway. Keep reading to learn how you can plan exterior upgrades while maintaining routines with your kids and family.
Be Mindful of Schedules
Schedule changes or interruptions can be problematic for kids. And that’s particularly true for babies, toddlers, and preschool-age children. That’s why it’s smart to opt for project timelines that work around critical parts of your schedule. If you have a toddler with a mid-afternoon nap, for instance, you won’t want the sound of hammering nails or removing shingles to interfere. Likewise, loud construction noises can be a challenge when your kids are diving into homework in the late afternoon. CCC
Aim to choose a contractor willing to work around these routines. Siding Contractors may be able to schedule siding removal mid-morning, for instance, while your kids are at school. And some crews can work later in the afternoon if your kids will be away at music lessons or sports practices. When everyone can make the effort to accommodate kids’ schedules, you’ll feel more relaxed and so will your kids.
Set Boundaries
Construction crews rely on a lot of materials, like ladders, paint, and tools. And they’ll be removing lots of debris, like siding or old decking, before introducing new materials that boost your home’s curb appeal. Errant nails and random tools can create safety hazards for your kids, especially if they’re used to playing in the yard. You can work around this issue by creating safe zones for your kids. You’ll just need to be explicit in how you communicate where those zones are, and use clear visual markings to make them obvious.
Maybe you have a small space beyond your patio that would work. Or perhaps an indoor play space is a better idea, depending on the scope of your exterior upgrade. Use temporary fencing to cordon off a space outside, or cones. Watch toddlers and preschool-age children to ensure they stay in their designated zones. Alert them to the fact that play time may be a little noisier, too, if your construction crew is actively working. And, whenever possible, head to the park or library to get away from the construction zone.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
When you’re trying to design a home upgrade project that respects the needs of your family, communication is key. Be clear with your contractor about timeline expectations. Let them know your schedule so they can try to work with it. And ask when you can expect busier work days or obstructed spaces.
Good contractors won’t always be able to meet every request, but they’ll try their best to make adjustments. This could include giving you a notification about very loud parts of the project. Or it could mean alerting you to deliveries and other moments when extra people will be on the property. Check in with your contractor each day so you know what to expect.
Explore Alternative Seasons for Updates
It’s worth considering when to schedule an exterior upgrade, as well. If you’re hoping to avoid delays and keep things predictable, choose a season where the weather won’t be as disruptive. In many northern states, including New Jersey, that can mean opting for fall or spring.
On the other hand, winter brings snow and ice, which can make it harder to work outdoors. Summer brings warmer temperatures, but sometimes heatwaves can make it dangerous to work outside, as well. Talk to your contractor about bumping your project to a season where the weather and timeline should be more predictable.
Be Strategic About Upgrades
Exterior upgrades can boost your home’s curb appeal and value. But you can pay the price, though, in disrupted routines that leave your children and you frazzled. It’s important to be strategic about the timing of a renovation project and communicate with your contractor about scheduling. Establish safe zones where your kids can play and minimize noise during key moments, like naps or homework time. With some planning, you’ll be able to sidestep major headaches and keep the project moving along well.