Winter Home Renovation Guide: Don't Panic Before the New Year

With winter approaching, many families are considering whether to start or continue their home renovation projects. So, is it still a good time to start renovations? Can a home currently under renovation be completed before the New Year? What details should be considered when renovating in winter? Don't worry, we've compiled essential tips for winter renovations to help you complete your project smoothly.

Carpentry work requires leaving gaps.

The moisture content of wood changes with temperature and humidity. In winter, when the air is dry, the moisture content of wood is at its lowest. Therefore, when laying solid wood flooring, leave an expansion joint of about 2 mm around the perimeter; door gaps should also not be too small to prevent expansion in summer and ensure a tight seal. This effectively prevents the material from expanding and deforming due to rising temperatures.

Wall and floor tiles should be laid after the surface has been warmed.

When renovating in winter, wall and floor tiles need to be left indoors for 24 hours to acclimate to the indoor temperature, preventing issues like hollow spots and detachment after installation. Additionally, grouting should be done promptly after installation to ensure the tiles are secure and aesthetically pleasing.

Temperature should be considered when using paint.

Winter dryness can cause putty to lose moisture too quickly, leading to peeling and cracking. However, as long as the indoor temperature remains above 5 degrees Celsius, there shouldn't be any major problems with the application. It's crucial to ensure the putty is completely dry before painting the walls; ideally, this should be done during the warmer midday hours.

Adequate ventilation

In winter, poor indoor ventilation leads to a high rate of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials, which can easily exceed safe levels. Therefore, it is important to ventilate the room appropriately, ideally around midday, to remove harmful gases and prevent cold outdoor air from causing paint to deteriorate or freeze.

In general, it's better to renovate sooner rather than later, and winter renovations also have their unique advantages. As long as you pay attention to the details mentioned above, you can complete the renovation project smoothly. If you want to save time and effort, you can also consider choosing a professional renovation company. Hopefully, these suggestions will help you move into your new home soon!