A major kitchen remodel involves moving walls, rearranging the layout and adding features like a new island. It can include semi-custom wood cabinets, energy-efficient appliances and decorative lighting.
Stick to timeless styles that won’t be too trendy in a few years. And resist fancy add-ons, such as cabinet and drawer dividers and vertical spice racks.
1. Know Your Budget
Whether you’re remodeling for the joy of it, to boost resale value or to get a better ROI when selling your home, the first step is to know your budget. That way, you can prioritize which areas to invest in and which ones to skimp on.
For example, adding a backsplash or replacing dated light fixtures may be fairly inexpensive upgrades that can make a big difference. Likewise, you can find ways to improve storage without having to expand the space by installing in-cabinet dividers or double pull out shelves.
It’s also wise to research the cost of materials and labor in your area. That will help you decide what projects to tackle yourself and what you can entrust to professionals. Then, you’ll have a clear idea of how much your kitchen remodel will cost.
2. Know What You Want
It’s important to know what you want your kitchen to look like. Choosing a design style, countertops and backsplashes are all important elements to consider. You may also want to decide whether you want to keep your existing appliances or replace them.
If possible, try to maintain the current locations of your sink and dishwasher to avoid relocating any major plumbing hook-ups. This can save you thousands of dollars.
It’s also a good idea to plan meals that will take advantage of your grill or microwave during remodel time. Microwaving isn’t everyone’s favorite, but it can be your best friend during kitchen remodeling. You can reheat leftovers, make scrambled eggs, and much more. This will help you avoid the temptation to overeat on Cup-o-Noodles and boxed mac-and-cheeses.
3. Know Your Contractor
The contractor you choose for your kitchen remodel will play a key role in your satisfaction with the project and the finished product. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals, then narrow down the list by interviewing prospective contractors.
Make sure your contractor has a license to do work on your home and proof of insurance. You may also want to look for a contractor with specific certifications or designations that prove their expertise in remodeling.
Check references and call former customers to see how well they worked with the contractor. Also ask if they would hire them again or recommend them to others. Also, inquire whether the contractor offers warranties for their work and what they cover. Having this information in advance will prevent surprises down the road.
4. Know Your Materials
The kitchen is one of the most popular rooms for homeowners to remodel. This is because a new kitchen can increase home value and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
A new kitchen can also help save energy. This is because modern appliances are designed to use less electricity without sacrificing quality or performance.
Another thing to keep in mind when planning a new kitchen is the type of materials you want to use. For example, marble countertops are a popular choice because they can create a luxurious feel in your kitchen. Similarly, herringbone tile flooring can add an interesting design element to your space.
Lastly, think about the lighting you want to use in your kitchen. This is important because the right lighting can set the mood and give your kitchen a unique look.
5. Know Your Timeline
The kitchen is the heart of the home and it is often the first place that homeowners think of when it comes to renovating their space. From new appliances and cabinets to countertops and backsplashes, there are so many decisions to make!
A major kitchen remodel can include things like removing walls and redesigning the layout to improve functionality. This can add up quickly and requires a lot of time for inspections, new framing and plumbing/electrical work.
If you are looking to keep your renovation costs down, consider doing a minor kitchen remodel. In this type of renovation, you may replace cabinet fronts but leave the boxes, upgrade to energy efficient appliances and repaint. You might also consider adding new windows if they would fit with your design plan.
