ADVICE: Home Renovating

Views: 1,021
Added: Wed. Jul 23, 2008 9:25am
Posted in: DIY & Home Improvement

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As you may have noticed in my status from time to time, I have been renovating my house for the past several months. I have advice for everyone who is looking to renovate...if you are doing more than one room, DO NOT live in the house during the process! Unless you want to feel like you are either on a non-stop rollercoaster with lots of loops, or as if you were painted into a corner, I highly recommend that you either stay with friends or relatives, rent a POD and store as much of your "stuff" as possible, or get your doctor to give you a prescription for xanax. I also recommend having an ample supply of either booze or marijuanna handy. LOL!

 

ALSO IMPORTANT...know this, no matter how organized and well thought out you think your renovation will go...FORGET ABOUT IT!!! If ever the phrase, "SHIT HAPPENS," were more appropriate, I don't know when. you have to remember that when you hire painters, flooring people, and cabinet makers, (make sure to check references) that they are human beings first and foremost, and that you are not their only job usually. They have families and issues of their own and sometimes, things come up.

 

Also keep in mind that materials have to be shipped and sometimes don't come in when they are scheduled. This is not the fault of the people you've hired, so don't take it out on them. Staying on the good side of your workers is pretty vital if you want them to do a good job.

 

And, if there is someone working in your house and you don't like their work, tell them that you are not satisfied with it and have them fix it. This is your home and you have every reason to make sure you are getting what you are paying for. Besides, if they don't take pride in their work, then they shouldn't be doing it! They should want it to look as good as you do, if not better!

 

Finally, if you are told it will probalby take 2-3 months...don't count on it. Because of the aforementioned road blocks, such as materials not coming in on time, your tile guys and your cabinet guys get stuck on an out-of-town job, your favorite tile has been discontinued by the manufacturer, etc., put it this way...it's always something!

 

So, with xanax and patience, I am hopefully nearing the end of this whole exhausting endeavor. But, I am possibly going to acquire a new job doing interior design consulting. I will be happy to help any and all of you choose colors and textiles and flooring for your homes as well. Through all the ups and downs, I must admit that I have enjoyed a lot of it and hope to help other people through their roller coaster ride called home renovation!

 

Peace, Love, Joy, & Light, Joanna!