Holiday Renovations? Here's What to Consider to Avoid Disasters Down the Line

Whether you aim to increase your home’s value or to simply enjoy your space more, renovation is a popular option for current homeowners. From basic projects like painting to full-scale structural overhauls, choosing to update your home rather than relocating allows you to enjoy the benefits of modern technology, remain in an established neighborhood, increase energy efficiency, and more. 

If you're planning a renovation before the holidays, there are several important factors to consider to ensure a safe, successful, and timely project. 

Plumbing

Let’s say you are remodeling a bathroom. It’s the internal plumbing fixtures that are the most likely to create problems later – and perhaps costly repairs. Internal problems can include things like corroded pipes that don’t measure up to today’s standards, leaky pipes, damaged or blocked drains or pipes that “rattle” when you take a shower. Any of these problems can result in a huge disaster later. Unless you have considerable experience, we suggest you leave these problems to a professional. 

Easier fixes for home or business owners are things like replacing faucets, knobs, vanities and even toilets. Just remember that when working on tubs, sinks or toilets, it’s important to shut off the water to the house. It’s also a good idea to turn all faucets to the highest setting and let them drain once you’ve turned the water off. 

Asbestos Testing and Abatement 

One of the most critical steps before starting any renovation, especially in older homes, is to test for the presence of asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in building materials before the 1980s due to its heat-resistant properties. However, it poses serious health risks when disturbed, as microscopic fibers can be released into the air and inhaled.

Here's why asbestos testing is crucial: 

• Health and safety: Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious illnesses like lung cancer and mesothelioma.
• Legal requirements: Many jurisdictions require asbestos testing before renovation or demolition, especially for homes built before 2004.
• Preventing future issues: Identifying and properly removing asbestos before renovation prevents contamination of other areas of your home.
• If asbestos is found, it must be safely removed by certified professionals before renovation work can begin. 

Insulation Assessment 

Proper insulation is key to energy efficiency and comfort in your home. And spray foam insulation that is installed in the attic is a great way to prevent ice dams in the winter. 

While you are performing renovations, it's an ideal time to: 

• Evaluate existing insulation.
• Upgrade to more efficient materials if needed.
• Ensure proper installation to maximize effectiveness.

Consider consulting an energy auditor to assess your home's insulation needs. Or you can perform your own energy audit by following this helpful guide produced by the U.S. Department of Energy. 

Preventing Disastrous Fires

If one of your projects involves freshening up the deck, wood patio or furniture, consider this: linseed oil soaked materials, such as rags, can actually be a fire hazard. The danger lies in the method of disposal of the materials used to complete the project. With linseed oil, as well as other oils used to finish wood, heat is generated during the drying process. Linseed oil doesn’t dry like paint – in other words, through evaporation – but instead it dries through the same chemical process that generates fire – oxidation. This process results in heat if there are enough rags or other materials containing linseed. As they dry, they spontaneously combust and catch fire to anything around the area.

While you will never see a piece of furniture spontaneously combust because the oil oxidizes in open air, a pile of oil-soaked rags definitely can. The bigger the pile of rags, and the warmer the temperature, the quicker the rags can ignite. Disposing of oil-soaked rags in a trash can produce enough heat to ignite the other surrounding trash. Here’s a good video of what can happen.

Lighting Upgrades 

Renovations offer a great opportunity to improve your home's lighting. Upgrading fixtures and adding lighting can deliver instant and refreshing results, and it’s the perfect time to: 

• Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs.
• Install dimmer switches for ambiance and energy savings.
• Consider smart lighting systems for convenience and efficiency.
• Plan for adequate task lighting in work areas like kitchens.

Choosing the Right Contractor 

Selecting a reputable contractor is crucial for a successful renovation. Start by asking people you trust for recommendations. Try to consider at least two or three contractors, and make sure you: 

• Get multiple quotes and check references.
• Verify licenses, insurance, and certifications.
• Ensure they're familiar with local building codes and permit requirements.
• Discuss timeline, budget, and communication expectations upfront.

Additional Considerations 

Timing and Holidays: 

• Factor in potential delays due to material shortages or worker availability.
• Consider the impact of construction noise and disruption on holiday plans.

Budget Planning: 

• Include a contingency fund for unexpected issues (typically 10-20% of the total budget).
• Consider financing options, if needed.

Permits and Inspections: 

• Research required permits for your specific renovation.
• Schedule inspections at appropriate project milestones.

Energy Efficiency: 

• Look for opportunities to improve overall energy efficiency (e.g., upgrading windows, HVAC systems).
• Consider smart home technologies for improved comfort and efficiency.

Material Selection:

• Choose materials that balance aesthetics, durability, and maintenance requirements.
• Consider eco-friendly options where possible.

Dust and Debris Management:

• Plan for proper containment and cleanup to minimize dust spread.
• Protect valuable items and consider temporary storage, if needed.

Ventilation:

• Ensure proper ventilation during and after the renovation to maintain good indoor air quality.

Future-Proofing:

• Consider potential future needs (e.g., aging-in-place features, technology integration).

Holiday Decorating:

• Plan how renovation work might impact your ability to decorate for the holidays.
• Discuss any specific holiday-related needs with your contractor.

Neighbor Considerations:

• Inform neighbors about the upcoming work.
• Be mindful of noise and parking issues.

By carefully considering these factors and planning accordingly, you can set yourself up for a successful renovation that enhances your home just in time for the holiday season. Remember, thorough preparation and professional assistance, especially for critical aspects like asbestos testing and removal, are key to a safe and satisfying renovation experience.

If you need help with any property damage restoration, contact us today! Restoration 1 of Western Wayne County can assist with asbestos removal, water mitigation, mold removal, and more!

Call us today!