Although the results of a renovation project are often breathtaking, going through the process can leave your temper a little short. That's understandable, says the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), when you consider all the dust and debris common on a worksite, the noise of power tools and the inconvenience of having a work crew underfoot in your home for days, weeks or even longer.

Losing your cool with the people working to make your home better often makes matters worse. For that reason, NARI offers homeowners some pointers on how to maintain a good relationship with contractors during a renovation project. A first-rate contractor will often anticipate many of these points and prepare a homeowner for what's ahead, thus averting any tension to begin with.

As Certified Remodeler and former NARI President Paul Winans says, "The key to a good homeowner-contractor relationship is open communication. Start a dialogue over issues you have, no matter how small you think they are. Chances are the problem can be overcome."

These tips from NARI can make life during a home remodel a little easier:

• Before work begins, sit down with your contractor and discuss details that will affect your daily routine. For example, ask that workers do not block the driveway without seeing if your car is out of the garage. Also, find out what their schedule will be so you know what to expect, and if it falls behind, ask why to keep that line of communication open.
  
• Be honest with your contractor about your expectations from day one. Open communication establishes trust and is the basis of a good working relationship. Discuss problems or irritations as they occur so you and your contractor can devise alternative solutions.
  
• Be sure to let your contractor know if you are planning a vacation or business trip so they can make their own schedule. If you decide to let them work while you're away, give them a phone number so they can reach you in case there's a question.
  
• Allow plenty of time for your project, keeping in mind that delays due to weather, material shortage or other problems cannot be predicted.
  
• Remove your personal property from construction areas and declare all work zones off limits to children and pets. Always put changes in writing, especially if plans are modified while work is being done. Have both parties agree on the changes and sign a written copy before work begins. Changes often cause delays, so if you decide a change is in order, be patient with the extended timeline.
  
• Keep all paperwork in one place. If there are any questions on the plans, you'll have an easy reference for clarification.
  
• And remember, be patient and keep your mind on the end result. In due time you'll be cooking your first meal in your new kitchen or soaking in your new bath, you will have forgotten the noise and dust, and you can relax in your newly remodeled home.