HOME AND DRY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

By Roberta Mark Engel

Are you prepared to restore your house? What have you done in preparation to begin this interesting and exhausting episode in your life? Have you acquired that "how to" book? Have you begun to make the needed repairs toWhat have you done in preparation to stay “Home and Dry for the Holidays”? Have you thought of hiring a decorator? This affair will definitely be an education. Did you know that renovate means to make new or like new, repair to restore to its original condition? If so, let us keep your “Home and Dry for the Holidays”. With one repair, you are on your way!

What did I do to restore our house? I made a schedule, allotting for workman problems I left three days in between the personnel I hired as the general contractor. No, I do and don’t have a Contractor’s license, but I researched and managed each job within each renovations project. The preparations are essential to the completed project. I decided which items to do in each room, while completing one space at a time. I found that it was easier to hire these people during and after the holidays because these recruits needed extra cash and were willing to give deeper discounts.

How did the repairs and remodeling get completed? I began by looking up renovations on-line by searching through information about renovations. Some of the sites will have a step by step guide which you can mold to your specifications. I also suggest that you contact an interior decorator depending on your economic situation. This person has far more of an extensive knowledge base than you do.

The modernization project began with throwing away or donating unwanted items. I did this act several times, classifying as I proceeded. It is helpful to keep your house constantly organized and updated so the preservation of the house is quicker. My mistake though was not to rent a large garbage receptacle. Next project, I will. It helps with the organization, maintenance and debris.

How did the transformation project begin? We found a leak in the great room which was caused by a gift from the builders-a leak in the shower pan. Our reconstruction began with the bathroom. In addition, we re-upholstered furniture and updated our knickknacks. We originally thought that we would so a minor cosmetic update in the bathroom. Then, we renovated one room at a time. I tried to hire local workers so I could give back to the community. The two largest projects were the bathroom ad kitchen. The bathroom renovations project took approximately one month that encompassed new tiling, fixtures, cabinetry, electrical and plumbing. It was difficult to store our personal items. Get cartons to store these items which will reduce the allergens you breathe plus keep you organized.

Our next project was the kitchen which took a couple of months to complete. This project included installation of cabinets, appliances, granite, flooring, electrical and plumbing. The downside was going out to eat all of the time! Did I miss the most difficult item? The installation cabinet process requires the removal of all drawers and contents. I kept items in boxes once again. We needed to move our computers, televisions, piano, for carpet installation and painting. We also had the windows and draperies cleaned. Then, the carpets were installed. Eventually, all the rooms were completed. The entire production process with the interior and exterior of the house painted.

Now, are you looking forward to your participation in the renovation process and know that it is exhausting, but proper research will help your successful venture. Before long, you be thankful that you chose to be “Home and dry for the Holidays”.