Home renovations can be quite stressful, particularly when you’re trying to keep all of your belongings safe in the process. While, of course, it will all be worth it in the end, keeping your home (and sanity) intact during home renovations can be difficult. These simple steps will guide you to storing and protecting your furniture during a home renovation.
From storing away fragile items to finding your way through a maze of plastic sheets and power tools, you need a bit of strategy and foresight to keep your prized possessions safe.
1. Find storage for furniture during a home renovation
One of the best ways to protect your belongings during a renovation is to place what you can in storage. Keeping items out of the house will also open up space that you will be clutching for once in the thick of the renovation process.
There are three main storage options: mobile storage, self-storage and container storage, so knowing which storage solution works for you is important.
Modular storage units
With modular or mobile storage, the storage box gets delivered to you before it gets taken to a secure storage facility.
Self-storage units
With self-storage units, you bring your items to a fixed facility. You often get more space and more flexible access; you just have to sacrifice your own time and effort.
Storage containers
These shipping containers are the biggest storage solution. They’re best for large furniture, building materials etc.
Remember to do thorough research and find storage companies that have positive customer reviews and trusted experience. They can ensure that all of your treasured possessions will be kept safe and sound regardless of what’s happening at home.
2. Use professional removalists during renovation
DIY moves of your furniture during renovations can be risky. Walls get scratched, floors damaged, heavy items are hard to carry, and fragile décor is vulnerable. Professional removalists will:
- Pack and protect furniture and décor
- Transport items safely to storage
- Reduce the chance of accidents and damage
- Save time so you can focus on the renovation itself
A removalist can give you (much needed) peace of mind during a hectic renovation.
3. Create an inventory list
Home renovations can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to many months. Before you battle over paint colours and wood floor vs. laminate flooring, create an inventory list to keep track of:
- What you're storing away
- Where you're storing each item.
When you have many workers in and out of the house, you'll want to know where everything is.
You can also use an inventory calculator to work out how much storage you will need to avoid paying for more than you use.
4. Pack smartly
Packing is your first line of defence when it comes to safely preparing for home renovations. It's not as simple as chucking everything in a box and taping it up. There are a few key rules to follow to help make sure everything stays safe.
- Use high-quality packing materials that will withstand weight
- Use plastic boxes for belongings at home - protects better from moisture in the air
- Colour code your labels for each room
- Always refer back to the inventory list
- Pack down assembled furniture if possible - takes up less space
- Wrap any large items you can't move
- Choose storage providers that offer packing services - boxes are packed correctly and professionally
5. Allocate an at-home storage room
Placing your belongings in external storage is the perfect way to keep them safe, some items need to be kept close to hand, like kitchen utensils and clothing.
Allocating one room in your home to keep boxes of everyday belongings will help keep the spaces decluttered, and avoid the boxes getting crushed or damaged.
Choose a room that is rarely used and doesn’t need renovation work. If your whole house is under renovation then your allocated storage room may need rotating.
6. Use protective covers and dust sheets
During home renovations, dust can become your unwanted roommate, sticking around even after the builders and contractors leave.
Most furniture and belongings can be tucked away nicely in your storage unit, but the unmovable parts of your home will need proper protection too.
Fixed items such as TV units, fireplaces and carpets, if left out in the open, will likely end up damaged from dusty work boots and drilling, even with the most careful of builders.
Invest in high-quality protective materials such as dust sheets, furniture wraps and covers to keep those fixed items safe and sound for as long as need be.
Common renovation storage mistakes you should avoid
Many homeowners make avoidable errors:
- Leaving furniture in rooms under renovation
- Choosing storage without security or climate control
- Underestimating the size or quantity of items
- Skipping professional packing for fragile pieces
Make sure to avoid doing these things if you want your belongings to stay safe and your renovation to run smoothly.
On reflection
Your cherished belongings don't have to be at risk in a home renovation. By choosing the right storage solutions, packing smartly, and using proper protective materials and professionals, you can ensure your things stay safe.
FAQs for home renovation storage
Do I need storage during a home renovation?
Yes. Using storage during a home renovation will protect your furniture and belongings from dust and damage. It will clear out space, making the renovation go faster and safer.
How much does renovation storage cost?
The cost of storage for a renovation will vary depending on the size, duration and type of storage you need. It's best to contact a reputable storage provider directly to get a customised quote.
Can removalists move furniture directly into storage?
Yes, professional removalists can move furniture into storage for you. For modular or mobile storage, removalists will bring the storage container to you and pack your items in it before taking the storage unit back to their secure facility. Having them pack it for you reduces double handling and damage.
Is it safe to leave furniture in the house during renovations?
Not always. Leaving furniture in the house during renovation exposes them to dust and damage. Moving items into external storage is the safest option for renovations.
