What to Consider Before a Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen remodeling can be difficult and expensive both in terms of money and time. However, I have recently done some remodeling in my house and will share with you some of the secrets that helped keep my project on track.

Before you start anything, get a notebook and document all aspects of the project. Describe your kitchen remodel in terms of items that I "must have" vs. items that are "nice to have," take time to list the items of the project that you may feel comfortable doing. My husband and I were able to do much of the demolition work and the painting and some minor plumbing. This helped save me considerable amounts of money. I was able to afford better lighting fixtures and cabinetry. Also have your estimated budget number written in your notebook. Keep in mind that budget overages occur, and that is when you will look at your "nice to have" list and start the process of eliminating those items that can be considered at a later point in time or omitted all together. This is the first part of keeping the project on budget.

First thing to consider is the scope of the kitchen remodel. If you are considering a remodel on an older home, keep in mind that electrical and plumbing codes most likely have changed and there may be considerable amount of money that needs to be budgeted due to unknown factors; make sure this is all factored into the dollar equation. Much of this will be discovered during the demolition phase of the kitchen. If your kitchen remodel is in a fairly newer home, you want to consider any changes to structure, plumbing and electrical as this will also add to your expenses.

In the next phase we will focus on preliminary research. Talk to friends, family and use the internet to get answers about contractors, selection of lighting fixtures, cabinetry, countertops, flooring selection, paint or wallpaper. Shop around at national retailers and then go to the internet. Many retailers offer better deals for the same product. Document how long it will take prior to arrival.

Cabinetry selection is difficult since there are so many options; ultimately focus on looks and durability. You want your cabinets to last for the years to come. Countertops can be expensive if you choose granite which is somewhat of a housing standard. They are expensive so you may want to think of laminate, as they come in so many finishes that it can be hard to believe that it is not granite. Flooring is another area that requires considerable time. Please keep in mind your local climate; ceramic is nice but in the northeast winters are very cold, so you may want to have heating coils installed below the tiles. Hard wood floors are also lovely, but if you have young children and lots of spills, the floors can get damaged. Based on your findings, have an idea of what the overall project is going to cost. If you are replacing appliances, do not forget to add that amount into the cost of the overall project.

The last phase of the ground work is done by calling three contractors and giving each contractor the scope of the project. Keep in mind any warranties they may be offering on workmanship. Remember to ask for references so you can follow-up with others for satisfaction. Explain every aspect of the project and let each contractor give you a proposal. This helps you compare each contractor and evaluate the cost and how it fits into your overall budget. Ensure that the contractor is insured and includes an estimated start date and completion date.

The three phases to a kitchen remodel detailed above were highly effective for me and we were able to get all the bells and whistles we wanted in our new kitchen without breaking the bank. The contractor completed the project in a timely manner and despite a few minor set-backs, I would consider the project to be a success.

Have Fun!