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Here's another great tip from BobVila.com.

While they’re always inconvenient, major remodeling projects can also become a real strain on your relationship if you let them. But there are ways to make sure you’re just gutting the kitchen, not your marriage.

First, never assume your spouse knows what the family room will look like or how big the deck should be without discussing it first. Talk about your expectations for the project and your budget thoroughly and often.

Even the healthiest relationships are challenged when a contractor comes into the house and a third person enters the couple’s territory. Make decisions as a team and convey them clearly to your contractor; no one wants to be the go-between or the one left out of the loop.

If you find you can’t agree on some things, don’t feel you have to compromise on everything: If one of you chooses the paint color and the other chooses the light fixtures, you can avoid a lot of tension and resentment.

If you still can’t agree or the project is beyond your skill set, don’t hesitate to hire a professional. An architect or interior designer can offer solutions you may not have thought of.

Remodeling projects seldom go exactly as planned. Expect the unexpected and don’t point fingers when chaos strikes. If you can laugh about it, you might wind up improving not just your home but your relationship as well.

Find out more at BobVila.com:
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