You’ve waited a long time for this, but now you’re ready to your Kitchen Remodeling. But still, you’re not quite sure where to start, what to do and in what order, and how to manage all the resources that will have input and take part in bringing your vision to life.
It can be a daunting task, to be sure, even for an experienced kitchen remodeler. But it doesn’t have to be chaotic, not if you adhere to this 10-step plan.
10 Tips for a Successful Kitchen Remodeling Project
- Decide what is cosmetic vs. essential. Before you finalize your budget, itemize those things you want vs. need in two separate columns. Some kitchens are so out of date they’re dangerous. Faulty appliances, wiring, or plumbing should always come first. Never spend a dime on cosmetic changes until you have obvious safety and convenience issues under control.
- Plan a new layout. Are you going to keep the same floor plan or design a new one? If your budget is flexible, the sky is the limit. But if your funds are limited, you may want or need to work around existing wiring and plumbing, which can somewhat limit your creativity. But remember: you can always work toward your dream kitchen in stages.
- Measure your space carefully. You’re going to need to know the width, depth and height of your kitchen before you can purchase new cabinets and appliances with confidence. If you’re not confident taking your own measurements for appliances, countertops, back splashes, etc., your contractor will be happy to assist you.
- Get one or more quotes from licensed and reputable contractors. In the process, don’t hesitate to ask your chosen contractors to verify their credentials and explain what work they do themselves vs. what needs to be sub-contracted.
- Ask for and check references. There’s nothing more reassuring than hearing firsthand from customers who were thrilled with both the process and end result delivered by the contractor you’re inclined to hire.
- Involve your contractor in the design process even if your own strong ideas. You’d be surprised at how much an experienced contractor can bring to the table that you might not have even considered.
- Keep your colors neutral. Green tiles and red borders may look good to you, but it can turn off would-be buyers who see your artistic flare as nothing more than a future redecorating project of their own.
- Let professionals do what they do best. Your job is to ensure that the finished project, in its various stages, earns your stamp of approval. But nobody likes a backseat drive, especially licensed, trained, and experienced contractors.
- Box up your dishes, gadgets, and groceries, etc., before construction begins. While your old kitchen is being ripped out, it’s going to be noisy and somewhat stressful. You’ll feel slightly dispossessed, but remember, it’s only for a few days.
- Check your materials, appliances and fixtures before they’re installed. Take the time to open boxes and check for damage. However carefully packaged they might be, accidents and damage can occur during shipping.
Speaking of qualified and experienced contractors, Norhio Plumbing stands ready to assist you with your partial or total kitchen make-over. We can add greater beauty, functionality, energy and water savings, plus greater convenience to your remodeled kitchen, and all with a guaranteed upfront price.
