Looking to remodel your kitchen, but don’t know where to start? We have the answer for you with this small guide.
First, let’s start with a budget. How much can you afford to spend? Dream up your wish list, then revise it into a “reality list” with price tags. During a remodel it’s a good idea to keep a list of “alternatives” to things like flooring, cabinetry, countertops, so that you may be able to make changes to fit into your budget. Always expect the unexpected.
Set goals for your kitchen remodel- What would you like to accomplish? What look or feeling do you want your kitchen to have? Color? What do you like about your current kitchen? These are important questions to ask before you start the project.
Find the professionals you will need-Even if you’re going the DIY route, unless you’re building your own kitchen cabinets and doing your own electrical and plumbing, you’re going to have to work with a professional at some point. Professionals are available to help you with everything from contracts and permits to space planning, budgets, choosing finishes and fixtures, shopping, ordering products, helping you set up a temporary kitchen, and managing your project from start to finish. So, ask around for referrals from friends and colleagues, do research and get estimates from these pros and hear their ideas about the space.
Design– Next, you’ll need to setup a schematic design. Sketches, space planning, preliminary floor plans and elevations showing the layout and cabinet sizes. You need a plan in order to figure out what materials will go where, and how many square feet you will need, and ultimately how much this will cost.
Demo!– Now that you’ve chosen your contractor based on best estimate and ideas, it’s time to start tearing things down. Time to get that schedule firmed up and plan on cleaning out the cabinets, putting what you don’t need in storage and — if you’re living in the house during construction — setting up a temporary kitchen so you don’t lose your mind or your wallet on eating out each day!
You may be moving out of your house temporarily, but most homeowners white-knuckle it and try to live in the house through construction. Discuss the logistics ahead of time with your contractor. Will you meet once a week for updates? Will you have to be out of the house for certain tasks like demo or flooring? What about debris removal and dust? Are there any family allergy issues? What is a typical work day for the crew? Getting all this on the table beforehand can set expectations and make for a smoother ride.
And remember, ALWAYS expect the unexpected.
#MP2Contractors Jobs Finished with Pride!
