DIY Prep: Declutter, Secure, and Live Through Your Reno

Let’s be honest — no one really enjoys living in a construction zone. There’s dust. There’s noise. There’s a strong chance you’ll be eating takeout off a folding table in your living room for a few weeks.

But with the right preparation, you can get through your renovation without losing your mind — or your sanity. In fact, a little prep work now will save you a ton of stress later. Here’s how to make it easier on yourself, your family, and even your contractor.

Why Renovation Prep Is Worth the Effort

Imagine trying to tile a floor around piles of toys or hanging drywall in a hallway lined with bookshelves. Not fun — and not efficient either. Clearing and prepping your space before the work begins helps your contractor move faster and protects your belongings at the same time.

Start With Decluttering — You’ll Thank Yourself Later

Before anything gets demoed, take time to simplify your space.

What to Keep, Donate, or Toss

This is your golden opportunity to clear the clutter. Go through each room and sort everything into three piles:

• Keep: Stuff you’ll need during or after the reno — keep it accessible.
• Donate: Gently used items you don’t want anymore.
• Toss: Anything broken, outdated, or just not useful.

Pro tip: Pretend you’re moving. If you wouldn’t pack it up and bring it to a new place, maybe it’s time to let it go.

Where to Put It All

If you’re staying home during the reno:

• Use plastic bins and stash them in low-traffic areas.
• Consider a temporary storage unit or mobile storage pod if you’re short on space.
• Don’t forget to label everything — future you will appreciate it.

Creating Livable Space During the Chaos

Unless you’re planning to live elsewhere, you’ll need a backup plan for cooking, bathing, and relaxing.

Make a Temporary Kitchen or Bathroom

• Move your coffee maker, microwave, and a small fridge into another room.
• A folding table + storage bins = instant pantry.
• If your bathroom’s being renovated, try to stagger the schedule with your contractor or rely on a guest bath.

Block Off Work Areas

• Use plastic sheeting or temporary walls to separate dusty areas from the rest of your home.
• Put down floor protection or drop cloths in hallways.
• Set clear boundaries with your reno team about where they can and can’t go.

Keeping Kids and Pets Safe

Kids and pets don’t mix well with exposed wires, saws, or construction debris. A little extra planning keeps everyone safe.

Family Tips

• Talk to your kids about what’s off-limits.
• Use baby gates or latches to keep them out of danger zones.
• Keep a daily routine — it’ll help everyone stay sane.

Pet Tips

• Move your pet’s food, toys, and bed to a calm area far from the noise.
• Consider a doggy daycare or pet sitter for really loud days.
• Keep collars and tags on in case someone accidentally lets them out.

Talk to Your Contractor (A Lot)

Want a smoother renovation experience? Communicate early and often.

Set Ground Rules

• Agree on work hours (especially if you have little ones napping).
• Ask about particularly noisy or dusty days in advance.
• Let them know about any health concerns like allergies or asthma.

Stay in the Loop

Ask for regular updates — weekly check-ins are a good rhythm.

Keep a simple notebook or shared document for changes, questions, and notes.

Build Your “Reno Survival Kit”

You never know what you’ll need when your regular routine is upside down. Here’s what to keep handy:

• Chargers
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Extension cords
• Hand sanitizer
• Bottled water & snacks
• Trash bags
• Wet wipes
• A decent playlist (you’ll need it)

Final Thoughts: Renovation Doesn’t Have to Be a Nightmare

Living through a renovation can be inconvenient, yes. But it doesn’t have to be miserable. If you take the time to prep your space, make room for flexibility, and set some boundaries, you’ll get through it — and the result will be well worth the effort.

Ready to Renovate Without the Headaches?

At Nova Decor Construction, we’ve been helping families across Markham and the GTA renovate beautifully — and live comfortably while doing it — for over 46 years. From planning to cleanup, we’ll walk with you every step of the way.

📞 Call us at (905) 201-0580
📧 Email: [email protected]
📍 Visit us at 6007 16th Ave, Markham, ON L3P 2B2

FAQ

❓Can I really stay home during a renovation?

You can — especially if it’s just one or two rooms. Whole-house renos might be another story. We’ll help you decide what makes sense.

❓Do I need to move all my furniture?

Yes, ideally. If you can’t, cover it with plastic sheeting and move it out of the work zone as much as possible.

❓How do I know what to pack?

Start with the things you use every day, and store the rest. Treat it like a short vacation from your stuff.