Kitchen remodeling can be expensive, especially if you use a contractor to oversee the project. However, if you have DIY skills and are willing to serve as the project manager, it can reduce your costs substantially.
The first step is determining what you hope to achieve from the remodel. This will help you set your budget and choose materials that align with your design goals.
Budget
Creating and adhering to a kitchen remodeling budget is one of the most important tasks homeowners should tackle. This is how you prevent surprises, costly mistakes, and roadblocks from derailing your project.
If you find yourself running out of money mid-remodel, it may force you to make choices you’ll regret later. Glossy cabinets that show every fingerprint or a countertop that looks cheap can be a tough choice to make in the heat of the moment, but the result is often disappointing.
Before beginning your renovation, determine what is most important to you and your lifestyle. Then, consider your goals, including resale value and the time you spend cooking and entertaining in the kitchen. This will help you decide how far to go with your renovation and what features to include in the plan.
Design
A well-designed kitchen is more than just a place to cook. As the heart of the home, it can add resale value, set the tone for your house, and bring joy to everyday living.
Kitchen remodeling Everett can include changing the style and color of existing elements or rearranging their locations. Adding new cabinets, countertops, and appliances can transform the room’s look.
Some homeowners select their flooring early in the remodel to ensure that the size and design of the other elements complement it. For example, dark hardwood flooring can be a good complement to darker cabinetry or countertops. Another important aspect of kitchen design is proper lighting. Be sure to work in light fixtures that match the overall style of your home.
Layout
The kitchen is the center of activity in most homes and a key room for cooking, dining, and entertaining. As such, it must meet certain minimum requirements regarding layout.
Considerations include:
- Creating unobstructed walkways.
- Ensuring the distance between the stove, sink, and refrigerator is at most 9 feet.
- Ensuring enough space to maneuver during food preparation.
Whether you’re upgrading worn-out surfaces, trying to add resale value, or just ready for a change, your goals will determine the direction of the kitchen remodel and the layout you choose. Choosing the right layout will ensure your kitchen is functional and meets all your requirements. Let’s take a look at the five most popular kitchen layouts. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Materials
A kitchen remodel is not just about a new look. It also changes how you use the space and what materials you choose to spruce it up with.
Storage is necessary, including ample room for all your cookware (and baking sheets) and cooking-related knick-knacks. You can add new cabinets or rejigger existing ones to increase cabinet space.
Countertops are another big-ticket item. Stone surfaces like granite are beautiful and durable but also pricey. Laminates and solid surface products offer more affordable options but may not stand up to regular cleaning and are more challenging to repair than natural stone. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each material with your contractor.
Installation
The last step in kitchen remodeling is installing the new fixtures and materials. This can involve demolition and removal of the old items, plumbing and electrical work, and adding drywall. Depending on the extent of the remodel, this could be handled by the homeowner or a professional contractor.
Hiring licensed professionals for any plumbing and electrical work is also a good idea. This will ensure the work is done correctly and complies with local codes.
Finally, it is important to follow the schedule for kitchen remodeling and pay contractors only when items on that schedule are completed. This will help to keep the project on track and ensure an understanding of payment amounts. It will also help ensure that products are received on time to be installed properly.
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