So, you’ve finally crossed the finish line with your home renovation project! It feels good, right? Now, you might be eager to just jump into your new space and enjoy it, but hold on. There’s a little more to do before you can truly kick back. Here’s a short list of what pros recommend doing after a home remodeling project.
Conduct A Thorough Inspection
Before you write that final check to your contractor (or before you put all of your tools away), take a detailed tour of the renovated areas. It’s crucial to make sure everything’s spot on and finished the way you want—check all fixtures, appliances, and whatever else got touched during the work to make sure they still operate as normal. Make a list of anything amiss so you can address it right there and then. This is your chance to make sure you get what you paid for and that warranties stay valid. Doing this now can save you from future headaches.
Deep Cleaning Is Non-Negotiable
No matter how tidy the renovation crew, home projects always leaves a mess behind. Before you start lounging in your updated space, clean up the post-construction gunk. Dust can settle in rooms far away, especially if the vents weren’t closed before demo began. Cleaning is a big job, so hiring a team of house cleaners can make a huge difference. They’ll swoop in with the heavy-duty gear to banish that stubborn dust and debris, so your home is not just clean on the surface but really deep-down clean.
Update Your Home Inventory and Insurance
Got new appliances installed? Make sure you jot down what’s new and take some pics. Updating your home inventory now is a smart move—it’s great for insurance purposes and helps you keep track of all the new stuff. (If you don’t already have a list in your phone that’s backed up to a cloud, get started now.) Speaking of insurance, give your agent a call to discuss how the renovations might affect your policy after a home remodeling project. Better coverage might be needed now that you’ve added value to your home.
Address The Air Quality
Let’s talk about air quality. Those new paints, adhesives, and materials can let off some not-so-nice fumes. Swap out your air filters first thing after a home remodeling project to keep your home’s air clean. Maybe even consider an air purifier with a HEPA filter to catch any pesky particulates. And don’t forget to keep windows open when you can, to get fresh air circulating through. It’s also wise to avoid using heavily perfumed cleaning products as they can contribute to indoor pollution. Find out how to make your own here. If you have carpets, giving them a deep steam clean can also help remove trapped pollutants.
Re-Establish Routine Maintenance
Renovations can throw your home’s maintenance routine out of whack. After a home remodeling project, it’s time to get back on track. Check appliances, peek at the plumbing, and make sure smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and radon detectors are up to snuff. It’s all about getting back to normal and making sure your home keeps running smoothly. Don’t overlook areas that weren’t part of the renovation but may have been affected, like your garden or basement. Regularly scheduled maintenance on these areas can prevent problems before they start.
Secure Warranties And Manuals
Grab all those warranties and manuals from the new installations after a home remodeling project. Having them sorted and easily accessible can save a ton of time and trouble if you need to make adjustments or repairs down the line. It’s one of those little tasks that really pays off when you least expect it. Create a digital backup of these documents too; it’s a safeguard against loss or damage. Moreover, registering your products can often extend their warranty period, which is a bonus worth taking advantage of.
Plan A Space Refresh
With everything shiny and new, your old furnishings might need a shuffle or a refresh. Take a look around. Maybe that old sofa just doesn’t sing with your new floors. Refreshing your space isn’t just about moving furniture around; it’s about creating a vibe that makes you happy. Declutter, donate what you don’t need, and revel in a fresher, cleaner home. This is also a perfect opportunity to incorporate some greenery; plants not only enhance the biophilic aesthetic but improve air quality, too. Consider your lighting as well—proper lighting can transform a room, making it feel more welcoming and spacious.
Document The Process
Why not keep a record of your renovation journey? From grimy before shots to glorious afters, documenting the transformation is not just fun; it’s also really useful for future projects or if you ever decide to sell. Plus, it’s always nice to look back and see how far you’ve come. Sharing your renovation story on social media or a personal blog can also inspire others and offer practical insights they can apply to their own projects. Your journey could be the guide someone else needs to kickstart their renovation dreams.
Renovating isn’t just about the mess and the chaos—it’s about creating a space that’s uniquely yours. By following these steps after you complete a home remodeling project, you’re making sure your home is safe, stylish, and set up for an enjoyable life.
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