12/13/2023

What To Do After A Remodel: A Complete Guide

1. Post-Construction Cleaning

Deep Cleaning is Essential

After the completion of a renovation project, your home isn’t just in need of a simple tidy-up. The nature of construction work, especially in historical homes, involves a significant amount of dust, debris, and residues that regular cleaning practices may not adequately address. Here’s what you need to consider:

Hire Professional Cleaners:

It’s strongly recommended to engage professional cleaning services specialized in post-construction clean-up. These professionals are equipped with the tools and expertise necessary to thoroughly remove all traces of construction residue, ensuring your home is not only clean but also safe and comfortable to live in. They focus on aspects often overlooked in regular cleaning, such as removing paint splatters, dust from hidden crevices, and construction debris.

Check with Your Remodeling Company:

Importantly, some renovation companies, including DreamWorx Renovations, understand the importance and extent of post-construction cleaning. They may offer this service as part of their package or have partnerships with cleaning companies to provide this service at a discounted rate. In some cases, they might even cover the cost entirely as part of their customer service. It’s always beneficial to inquire with your remodeling company about how they assist with this vital step.

Air Quality Check:

Remodeling projects, particularly in older, historical homes, can significantly impact the indoor air quality. Fine particles from construction materials can linger in the air long after the work is completed. To safeguard the health of your family, it’s essential to replace all air filters in your home post-renovation. Additionally, consider investing in an air purifier, especially in areas most affected by the renovation. This will help remove any remaining airborne particles and improve the overall air quality in your newly remodeled home.

You can check your local hardware store for air filters or air purifiers for your home. Here are some air filter options at Home Depot: https://www.homedepot.com/b/Heating-Venting-Cooling-Air-Filters/N-5yc1vZc4kw

2. Inspection and Documentation

Ensure Everything is Up to Standard

The successful completion of a remodel isn’t just about admiring the transformation; it also involves ensuring that every detail meets your expectations and standards. This phase is critical, whether you’re working with DreamWorx Renovations or another reputable remodeling company.

Final Walk-Through:

**Purpose:** This is a critical step where you, as the homeowner, along with your contractor, go through the renovated space to verify that all work has been completed to the agreed specifications.
**What to Look For:** Check for any incomplete tasks or areas that may not meet your expectations. Pay attention to the finishing touches like paintwork, tile alignment, and fixture installations.
**Ask Questions:** This is the perfect time to ask your contractor about maintenance tips, warranties, and best practices to care for your new space.
**General Contractors vs. Specialized Firms:** If you’re working with a general contractor, they might have coordinated with various subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, etc.). Ensure that all aspects of their work have been reviewed. In contrast, specialized firms often focus on specific areas (like historical features in a home), so your attention during the walk-through may be more focused on these elements.

Document the Results:

**Photographic Records:** Take detailed photographs of the completed work. These images serve as a record of what the space looks like immediately after the renovation. This can be particularly useful if any issues arise later.
**For Insurance Purposes:** These photographs can be vital for updating your home insurance. They provide a visual documentation of the improvements and changes made, which might affect the value of your property.
**Future Reference:** For future remodeling projects, these photos can help in planning and showing contractors exactly what has been done previously. It’s also a great way to visually document the transformation of your home over time.

3. Systems Check

Verify All Systems are Go

After a remodel, it’s crucial to ensure that all newly installed systems are operational and efficient. This step is about more than just convenience; it’s about safety and functionality. Here’s what you should focus on:

Plumbing and Electrical Systems:

**Plumbing Checks:** Test all new plumbing fixtures—faucets, toilets, showers, and any appliances connected to the water supply like dishwashers and ice makers. Look for leaks, check water pressure, and ensure hot and cold water are functioning as expected.
**Electrical Safety:** Test all new electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures. Ensure they are operational and that there are no signs of electrical issues like flickering lights or tripping breakers. Pay special attention to areas where water and electricity are in close proximity.
**Compliance with Codes:** Ensure all electrical and plumbing work complies with local building codes and standards. This is crucial for both safety and future resale or insurance purposes.

Appliances and HVAC:

4. Updating Home Insurance

Protect Your Investment

A successful remodel can significantly enhance the value and functionality of your home. However, these improvements can also change the insurance requirements for your property. Here’s how to ensure your investment is adequately protected:

Assess the Value:

**Increased Home Value:** Understand that remodeling, particularly in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or historical features, can considerably increase the value of your home. This increase should be reflected in your home insurance policy to ensure full coverage.
**Professional Appraisal:** Consider getting a professional appraisal post-remodel. An appraiser can provide a detailed report on the added value, which can be a crucial document for insurance purposes.

Contact Your Insurance Provider:

**Update Your Policy:** Inform your insurance provider about the remodel and provide details of the changes made. This includes additions, major upgrades, or any structural changes.
**Review Coverage Needs:** Discuss with your insurance agent to understand if your current policy sufficiently covers the new value and features of your home. You might need to adjust your coverage limits or even consider additional coverage options

Understand Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value:

**Replacement Cost Coverage:** This type of coverage can reimburse you for the cost of rebuilding or repairing your home, at current prices, without a deduction for depreciation. It’s particularly important if your remodel includes high-value additions or historical features.
**Actual Cash Value:** This coverage considers depreciation and might not fully cover the cost of damages to a newly remodeled home.

Document Everything:

**Keep Records of Renovations:** Maintain a file of all remodeling activities, including contracts, receipts, and before-and-after photos. These documents are invaluable for insurance purposes and can expedite the claims process if needed.
**Update Home Inventory:** If your remodel included new appliances, fixtures, or significant additions, update your home inventory list. This list should include the make, model, purchase date, and price of items, which can be critical in the event of a claim.

Consider Additional Liability Coverage:

**Umbrella Policy:** If your remodel adds features like a pool, deck, or additional structures, consider an umbrella policy for added liability coverage. This can protect against potential accidents or injuries that might occur on your property.

Most likely, you already have a home insurance policy, but to be thorough, here are two options in case you do not or would like a new quote.

5. Interior Decoration

Adding the Finishing Touches

Now that your remodel is complete, the final step is to enhance and complement your new space with thoughtful interior decoration. This is where your renovated space truly becomes your own, reflecting your personal style and the functional needs of your home.

Complement Your New Space:

**Harmonizing with the Renovation Style:** Choose furniture and décor that align with the style of your renovation. For instance, if you’ve renovated a historical home, you might opt for antique pieces that complement its character. Alternatively, a modern, sleek remodel might pair well with contemporary or minimalist furnishings.
**Function and Form:** Consider the functionality of each room. For a kitchen remodel, you might want practical yet stylish storage solutions, while a living room might call for comfortable seating and ambient lighting.
**Color Coordination:** Use a color palette that complements the new colors in your remodel. This can include matching throw pillows, curtains, or rugs to the new wall colors or incorporating accent pieces that highlight key features of the room.
**Art and Personal Touches:** Artwork and personal items can add warmth and personality to your space. Select pieces that have meaning to you and complement the overall aesthetic of the room.

Consult a Designer:

**Professional Insight:** An interior designer can offer expert advice on how to best utilize your space, color schemes, and furniture placement. They can help in creating a cohesive look that ties together the new elements of your remodel with your existing possessions.
**Access to Resources:** Designers often have access to a wide range of resources and vendors, which can provide more options for furniture and décor than what’s available in retail stores.
**Budgeting and Planning:** A designer can work within your budget to find the best solutions for your space. They can also help in planning out the decoration phase to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
**Custom Solutions:** If you have specific needs or want something unique, a designer can help create custom pieces that perfectly fit your space and style.

6. Maintenance Plan

Keep Your Home in Top Shape

A well-thought-out maintenance plan is essential for preserving the value and functionality of your newly remodeled space. Regular upkeep not only extends the life of your new installations but also helps in avoiding costly repairs in the future. Here’s how to develop an effective maintenance plan:

Regular Maintenance:

**Develop a Maintenance Schedule:** Create a schedule for routine tasks. This could include monthly, quarterly, and annual tasks. For example, HVAC system checks, gutter cleaning, and checking seals around windows and doors.
**Special Attention to High-Use Areas:** Pay closer attention to areas that see more wear and tear, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Regular checks on plumbing and appliances in these areas can prevent bigger issues down the line.
**Seasonal Maintenance:** Plan for seasonal maintenance activities, such as servicing your heating system in the fall and your air conditioning in the spring, to ensure they’re functioning efficiently when you need them most.
**Historical Features:** If your home has historical elements that were preserved or restored, these may require special maintenance to maintain their condition and integrity. This could include specific cleaning methods or regular checks for signs of aging or damage.

Warranties and Manuals:

**Organize Documentation:** Keep all warranties, manuals, and service documents for new appliances, fixtures, and any parts of your remodel in an organized and easily accessible manner. A dedicated folder or digital records can be useful for this.
**Understand Warranty Coverage:** Take the time to understand what each warranty covers and for how long. This information is crucial in the event of a malfunction or issue.
**Track Warranty Expiration Dates:** Keep a record of when warranties expire. This can help in scheduling maintenance or inspections before the expiration date, ensuring any issues are covered.
**Follow Manufacturer Guidelines:** Manuals often include maintenance tips and schedules recommended by the manufacturer. Following these guidelines can help in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of the appliances and fixtures.

Regular Inspections:

**DIY Checks:** Learn to perform basic maintenance checks yourself. This includes inspecting for leaks, checking for wear and tear, and cleaning filters.
**Professional Inspections:** For more complex systems or structural elements, schedule regular inspections by professionals. This is particularly important for aspects like electrical systems, roofing, and foundation.

Emergency Plan:

**Be Prepared for Unexpected Issues:** Have a plan in place for dealing with emergencies, such as water leaks or electrical problems. This includes knowing how to shut off water and electricity, and having a list of emergency contacts for professional services.

7. Community Notification

Let Your Neighbors Know

After investing time, effort, and resources into remodeling your home, especially if it’s a historical property, it’s essential to consider how these changes integrate into your community. Properly communicating with your neighbors and relevant local organizations not only fosters good community relations but also ensures that your renovations comply with local guidelines and preserve the area’s historical integrity.

Host an Open House:

**Building Community Relations:** An open house is a great way to engage with your neighbors and integrate your new space into the community. It fosters a sense of openness and friendliness.
**Showcasing Your Renovation:** This event allows you to showcase the hard work and thought put into the renovation. It’s an opportunity to share your vision and the home’s history, especially if it has significant historical value.
**Planning Tips:** When planning an open house, consider sending invitations to your neighbors, setting a convenient time, and preparing your home for visitors. Small refreshments and a guided tour can make the event more engaging.

Community Guidelines for Historical Homes:

**Understanding Local Regulations:** If your home is historically significant, it’s crucial to understand and comply with any local historic preservation guidelines. These rules often govern exterior changes and are designed to preserve the character of historical neighborhoods.
**Communicate with Historical Societies or Neighborhood Associations:** Proactively reach out to your local historical society or neighborhood association. Inform them of the changes you’ve made, especially if they are externally visible. This can help in maintaining a good relationship with these entities and ensures that your renovations are in line with community standards.
**Seeking Approval for Future Changes:** For future external changes, it may be necessary to seek approval from these organizations. They can provide guidelines and advice on how to make alterations that are sensitive to the historical context of your home.

Engaging with Local Community Groups:

**Participate in Community Events:** Engaging in local community events or groups can be a good way to integrate into the neighborhood, especially if you’re new or have been less active in the past.
**Sharing Your Experience:** Sharing your renovation experience can be valuable to others considering similar projects. It can provide insights into working with local contractors, navigating regulations, and preserving historical aspects of a property.

In Conclusion

We hope this complete guide to what to do after a remodel provides valuable tips to ensure you make the most out of your new space.

Your remodel with DreamWorx Renovations is more than just a one-time project; it’s an ongoing journey to create the home of your dreams. By following these steps, you can ensure that your newly remodeled space remains as functional and beautiful as the day it was completed. Remember, we’re here to help you every step of the way, even after the final nail has been hammered.

For more information about our company, please visit our website.

What To Do After A Remodel: A Complete Guide

1. Post-Construction Cleaning

Deep Cleaning is Essential

Hire Professional Cleaners:

Check with Your Remodeling Company:

Air Quality Check:

2. Inspection and Documentation

Ensure Everything is Up to Standard

Final Walk-Through:

Document the Results:

3. Systems Check

Verify All Systems are Go

Plumbing and Electrical Systems:

Appliances and HVAC:

4. Updating Home Insurance

Protect Your Investment

Assess the Value:

Contact Your Insurance Provider:

Understand Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value:

Document Everything:

5. Interior Decoration

Adding the Finishing Touches

Complement Your New Space:

Consult a Designer:

6. Maintenance Plan

Keep Your Home in Top Shape

Regular Maintenance:

Warranties and Manuals:

Regular Inspections:

Emergency Plan:

7. Community Notification

Let Your Neighbors Know

Host an Open House:

Community Guidelines for Historical Homes:

Engaging with Local Community Groups:

Maximizing Your Productivity: Home Office Design Tips You Need to Know

How To Optimize Space In Your Home With Smart Remodeling

1. Post-Construction Cleaning

Deep Cleaning is Essential

**Hire Professional Cleaners:**

**Check with Your Remodeling Company:**

**Air Quality Check:**

2. Inspection and Documentation

Ensure Everything is Up to Standard

**Final Walk-Through:**

**Document the Results:**

3. Systems Check

Verify All Systems are Go

**Plumbing and Electrical Systems:**

**Appliances and HVAC:**

4. Updating Home Insurance

Protect Your Investment

**Assess the Value:**

**Contact Your Insurance Provider:**

**Understand Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value:**

**Document Everything:**

5. Interior Decoration

Adding the Finishing Touches

**Complement Your New Space:**

**Consult a Designer:**

6. Maintenance Plan

Keep Your Home in Top Shape

**Regular Maintenance:**

**Warranties and Manuals:**

**Regular Inspections:**

**Emergency Plan:**

7. Community Notification

Let Your Neighbors Know

**Host an Open House:**

**Community Guidelines for Historical Homes:**

**Engaging with Local Community Groups:**

Hire Professional Cleaners:

Check with Your Remodeling Company:

Air Quality Check:

Final Walk-Through:

Document the Results:

Plumbing and Electrical Systems:

Appliances and HVAC:

Assess the Value:

Contact Your Insurance Provider:

Understand Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value:

Document Everything:

Complement Your New Space:

Consult a Designer:

Regular Maintenance:

Warranties and Manuals:

Regular Inspections:

Emergency Plan:

Host an Open House:

Community Guidelines for Historical Homes:

Engaging with Local Community Groups: