Waukesha County Home

October, 2019

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HOME OCTOBER 2019 8 ✦ Additions ✦ Kitchens ✦ Bathrooms ✦ Lower Levels Award Winning Residential Remodeler 262.363.4200 www.herriges.com 121 Wolf Run, Suite 1, Mukwonago, WI 53149 In Mukwonago since 1972 Julie Herriges, CKBR Wisconsin Registered Interior Designer 265939003 What to expect during a home remodel A kitchen, bathroom, basement or any other type of remodel is an exciting event for homeowners. Something they've dreamed about for months or even years is finally happening so there is eager antici- pation for the work to begin and to be fin- ished quickly. Long-time NARI Milwaukee member Nick Kerzner recommends that homeown- ers and contractors invest time before dem- olition kicks off to have an "expectations" conversation. "Since homeowners have so much eager- ness built up for their remodel, demo day is something they really look forward to," said Kerzner, MCR, CR, CKBR, owner of Kerzner Remodeling & Construction. "However, once the demo is done, things can seem to drag on. That's why it's so important to know from the beginning what to expect." Alternate plans If the remodel involves a heavily-used room, it's important to plan ahead. During a kitchen remodel, think about which room can become a make-shift kitchen. The refrigerator and a counter-top microwave can be moved into that space so the family can continue to prepare food. Be ready to use paper plates and plastic uten- sils since the kitchen sink won't be avail- able for washing dishes. "It's important to realize things won't be exactly normal for a few months. You may end up eating out or having microwavable dinners more often than you're used to," said Diane Welhouse, CKBR, executive director of NARI Milwaukee. "However, the good news is that it's not a long-term situa- tion. It's just temporary." Pets also require advance thought. Since contractors will be walking in and out of the house and loading things in and out, a plan so cats and dogs don't run out the door or get under foot should be made. Dust and some disruptions While contractors do clean up and try to maintain an orderly job site, there's no get- ting around it — there will be dust. It's especially prevalent during the demolition and dry-wall stages. To help mitigate the spread of dust, con- tractors will create temporary dust con- tainment barriers with plastic sheeting and use dust abatement vacuums. They also lay down floor protection. Another consideration during a remodel is the fact that the family's morning or evening routine may need to change a bit. "Contractors typically try to arrive around 7:30 or 8 a.m. so the homeowner has time in the morning to get ready and leave the house," Welhouse said. "They usually leave around 4 or 4:30 p.m. before the fami- ly returns. However, there may be times they need to come early or stay late but they'll let you know in advance." Progress ebbs and flows While demo day is exciting, it's short- lived. And, after the room has been gutted, it may seem like nothing is happening and that can make homeowners anxious. "A lot of work after demolition is literal- ly behind-the-scenes. We're doing plumb- ing, electrical and HVAC in the walls, floors and ceiling," explained Kerzner. "While it may seem like things have come to a stand- still, they really haven't." For homeowners who are adding custom cabinetry or woodwork to their room, progress can slow down while those pieces are being made. Another phase that requires more time happens after the cabinetry has been installed. Countertop measurements are taken so the granite, marble or solid sur- face can be custom fabricated. "It's a matter of practice that countertop fabrication begins only after the in-home measurements have been made," Kerzner said. Communication is key According to Welhouse, communication before, during and after the remodel is imperative. "When contractors and homeowners are communicating regularly and in specific detail, it makes the entire remodel go more smoothly," Welhouse said. "It's also impor- tant to know that unexpected issues can arise but talking in advance about how changes and change orders will be handled makes things easier on both sides." Many contractors find it helps the home- owner to have a detailed construction cal- endar. In fact, some NARI member contrac- tors are now using software such as Buildertrend so homeowners can log in and easily access the details of their remodel, including scheduling updates, work orders and billing. Both Welhouse and Kerzner advise home- owners to keep the end goal in sight. "You might experience some disruptions but remember you'll soon be getting a brand new room to enjoy for years to come," Kerzner said. Nick Kerzner, MCR, CR, CKBR, owner of Kerzner Remodeling & Construction, will share his perspective on "What to Expect During a Remodel" on Oct. 18 at 3:30 p.m. on the Home Solutions Stage at the NARI Home & Remodeling Show at State Fair Park. For more information, visit NARIM- ilwaukeehomeshow.com. A "before" photo of a corner of a kitchen. It's what leads many to inviting a contractor into their homes. Photos courtesy of Kerzner Remodeling & Construction The shiny, brand new look of a remodeled kitchen will be worth the inconvenience during a remodel, although builders can do much to minimize any issues.

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