A home renovation is exciting, but it can also turn your haven into a chaotic construction zone in the blink of an eye. If you have children, keeping them safe during the chaos is your number one priority. Here are five of the best ways to childproof your home during a remodeling project.

While many contractors, like Lewis Design Build Remodel, take all these precautions (and more) to ensure the workspace is safe, secondary safety measures should also be implemented. During a home remodeling project, there will be many hazards new to most people: open floors, exposed framing, accessible electrical wiring, unsecured hardware (nails, screws, etc.), and more. It is crucial that homeowner put their own safety practices in place as well to ensure they are ready to accommodate a home remodel.

1. Establish Solid Barriers and Security

The easiest way to prevent accidents is to keep kids away from danger in the first place by limiting their access.

Physical Barriers: Use sturdy, hardware-mounted safety gates (not tension gates) to block off the active work area. Consider using temporary plywood walls or plastic sheeting for a more robust visual and physical barrier, especially if the project will span several weeks.

Lock Down Tools: Ensure all tools, heavy equipment, and hazardous materials (paints, solvents, glues, etc.) are stored in a locked cabinet or room that is inaccessible to children and out of sight.

2. Create a Temporary Safe Space

Designate a specific area in your home as the "kid zone" and make it appealing so they want to stay there.

Location: If possible, this space should be set up in a room far from where the renovation is taking place. Ideally, choose a room with solid doors that can be closed to minimize noise and dust exposure.

The Appeal: Stock it with their favorite toys, books, and activities to keep them entertained and out of harm's way. This becomes their secure retreat when workers are present or noise levels are high.

3. Maintain Open Communication

Safety is a team effort. Clear communication ensures everyone knows the rules, so be sure you choose a contractor who is willing to create a schedule and establish realistic expectations for the duration of the project, like Lewis Design Build Remodel.

Set Expectations: Talk to your children about the "red zone" (the work area) and the importance of staying away from it. Use simple, direct language to avoid complicating things.

Inform Workers: Clearly communicate your house rules to your contractors and their crew. Let them know where the children are, what times they nap, and which areas are strictly off-limits to their equipment and materials. This is especially crucial for days off when the job site will be unattended.

4. Prioritize Cleaning and a Safe Environment

Construction sites are inherently dirty, posing inhalation and ingestion risks. Keeping designated areas of the home clean and containing the mess can create a safer, more efficient environment.

Daily Cleanup: Work with your contractor to establish a mandatory end-of-day cleanup routine. This includes sweeping up debris, collecting loose nails/screws, and properly disposing of construction waste.

Dust Control: Use HEPA air filters in the main living areas and the kids' safe space. Ask your contractor to hang plastic barriers over doorways and vents to minimize the spread of fine dust, which can be a respiratory hazard.

5. Set Up a Functional Temporary Kitchen

The kitchen is the main hub of most homes, and therefore, it can be a challenge to function without one. If you are planning a kitchen remodel, cooking and eating safely can be a major challenge when your primary kitchen is gutted.

Relocate Essentials: Move your refrigerator and microwave to a safe, easily accessible area (like a laundry room or garage). This setup should be away from main traffic paths and the work area.

Child-Friendly Access: Keep sharp utensils and small, dangerous appliances (like blenders) stored high up or locked away. Focus on simple, no-cook meals that reduce the need for complicated kitchen setups and hot appliances near children.

By planning ahead with these steps—strong barriers, dedicated safe zones, clear communication, rigorous cleaning, and a smart temporary kitchen—you can significantly reduce risk and make your remodeling project a much smoother, safer experience for your entire family.

For more information, please visit our website and download our eBook: ‘A Guide To Hiring A Remodeler.’ Our eBook Guide provides additional resources and includes helpful Worksheets that will make the process of picking the right remodeling expert for the job stress-free. To get your own project started, get in touch with us or give us a call at (831) 566-9499.

Project Featured In This Blog: Modern Mediterranean