Kitchen remodeling is exorbitant. Yet, of all the home improvement projects, this project is undertaken extensively by homeowners in the USA. Not surprising though, since of all the rooms in the house, the kitchen takes the maximum abuse.
However, if you are planning for a kitchen remodel, tread carefully. One wrong decision can prove disastrous, both in terms of the cost and the desired output. After all, it is not every day that you go in for kitchen remodeling.
Once the project is done, your kitchen will remain as such for some time before you decide to change things around again. So, consider the following things carefully before you do your kitchen remodel.
- Always Remodel With a Blueprint
Planning a kitchen remodel requires a certain amount of preparation as it’s usually an expensive project. To avoid the possibility of blunders, it is advisable to take time in planning the process.
Every move you intend to make must be mapped in advance. Make sure there are no loose ends to avoid regret later on. Ask yourself the following questions when planning your kitchen remodel:
- Have you planned your remodeling project in detail?
- What do you expect from the renovation?
- Are your expectations feasible?
- What is the right way to go about the renovation process?
- Plan in Advance to Save Money
Planning early works in your favor in more ways than one:
- To begin with, it saves your money. Once you have an idea about the fixtures and other items you need to replace in the kitchen, you need not rush to buy those immediately. You can purchase some items right away, while waiting for seasonal sales to procure other items at discounted prices.
- If you want to change your original blueprint, you can do so without wasting any money. Maybe you liked a certain flooring, a faucet, or an appliance at a friend’s place and would like to have them in your kitchen as well. It is foolish to make the change once you have started the work or change the item after having it installed. Having some room for changing your mind is ideal before you begin.
- You’ll have the time to tackle trivial issues that are likely to come up during the course of the renovation.
- A Functional Kitchen is More Important than an Ornamental One
Sure, we all want a kitchen that looks great. However, you have to prioritize between function and aesthetic when you are on a budget. Here enters the feasibility issue.
You obviously have set a budget for the project. Any embellishment you add impulsively is going to affect your budget severely.
The idea is to focus on your priorities. How did the need for a remodel surface in the first place? Perhaps there is a lack of storage space in your kitchen. Or your countertop is too cluttered. Focus on solving these problems first.
You can get creative too. Think of larder cabinets where even the door of the larder can be used to store food items. Opt for mid-walled cabinets that are accessible and could help speed up your work as well. Another example is choosing sliding shutters as they do not come in the way when you open the cabinet doors; making them easier to work with.
- Make the Right Choices for Maximum Benefit
As we mentioned before, it’s best to prioritize functional value. Probably there is a problem with the lighting in the kitchen, and you want lights behind the walls, up in the ceiling and even in the cabinets.
Or perhaps you are looking for enhanced storage within the same area. In this case, you should focus on getting big and deep drawers to get maximum storage. Prioritize your immediate needs.
There is no point blowing up your budget on your wants before your needs have been dealt with.
- Do not Rely Exclusively on Sketches
Whenever we plan a new home improvement project, we tend to rely heavily on sketches for the layout. Does this give us a true picture of the design, though?
Why not try three-dimensional design or Kitchen Simulators that will give you a better idea of what your kitchen is eventually going to look like? This process gives you a better clarity as far as the aesthetic of the kitchen is concerned.
Say, you want to go in for an island kitchen with a built-in hood and a refrigerator. Trying out the kitchen simulator can help you visualize its final placement. Alternatively, you can also ask for a 3-D model of your kitchen to get a rough idea of the final layout.
- Always Consult Professionals
You know what they say, “Jack of all trades, Master of none”.
This holds true for most of us. This applies here too. Despite some exposure to DIY, you may not have enough experience to figure out everything.
We would strongly suggest that you consult a professional before you plan any major changes in your kitchen. They have enough experience in almost every aspect of the remodeling process to understand what you are looking for. A professional designer will also be able to advise you about the kind of purchases you should make. You can also clarify any doubts you have about the quality of the material.
- Choose the Right Contractor
The importance of this can never be emphasized enough. You have to ensure that you’re dealing with professionals for your kitchen remodeling.
You have to ensure they have the necessary licenses, insurance, and other important certifications. Always cross-check from different sources before hiring them. Ask for references and make a call or two to their past clients to gauge their authenticity.
Some contractors even invite their clients to have a look at their previous projects for their other clients in person. Just as much, do revise the cost quoted for the material and the labor.
Good luck with your remodel!
