Home remodeling projects are on the rise and contractors are busier than ever. However, the pandemic and recent natural disasters in 2020 have contributed to a backlog of construction materials such as lumber, and an increased awareness of keeping workers safe and healthy. If a contractor or crew comes down with COVID-19 symptoms, operations could shut down until workers return after quarantine with negative test results.

For a kitchen remodel, or even if you’re just in need of a plumber or HVAC tech for a quick fix, contractors will need to enter your home. Here are a few things to consider.

Patience! There Will Be Delays

Expect delays and plan ahead for them. All aspects of your project will most likely be delayed, so you need to be prepared for that up front. Due to supply chain and labor issues, everything from product and materials to the delivery timeline has slowed down. This affects the delivery timeline of your kitchen cabinets as well.

Homeowners who planned or started a project before COVID-19 should triple their original contractor timeline. Supply chain bottlenecks and workers with flu-like symptoms could add an additional one to two months to your project’s completion.

Before beginning a project, you should ask your contractors what precautions they’re taking in light of the pandemic. Talk to your contractors and ask if they are using virtual workarounds for providing estimates, quotes, and design work. A video call could help avoid at least one unnecessary trip inside your house.