Are you sick of having kitchen cabinets that won’t close? Tired of working on countertops that have more scratches that usable surface? Sounds like you need a new, functional, and remodeled kitchen— much easier said than done. Or maybe not. We’ve put together a checklist to help you get through the kitchen remodeling process from start to end.
Make a plan
Don’t jump into your kitchen remodel without making a plan—even if you are sticking to the same kitchen layout. What do you like about your present kitchen? Do you like the layout? What would you like to change? For example, do you need more outlets? Or would you like to add an outlet to your kitchen island? If you do, this is an electrical change that needs to be made before you put the finishing touches on your kitchen so include the additional work into your plan.
Do you want to move the sink to another location in your kitchen, or your stove or refrigerator? For major kitchen layout changes, visit a kitchen designer. A kitchen designer can put your vision on paper, and can suggest ideas that they’ve seen work in other kitchens.
Research your options
Once you have a plan, it’s time to research and select all the different components of your kitchen. If you’ve decided to use a contractor for your kitchen remodel, contact your contractor for an estimate. Don’t be afraid to ask for input about what they’ve seen and would recommend for your project. If you’re on a tight budget, a contractor can also make suggestions for cost-effective options that can save you money and get you the most for your dollar.
So where do you start in your research? Here’s a list to get you started:
• Cabinets (and hardware)
• Countertops
• Flooring
• Lighting
• Sink (and faucet)
• Appliances
Prepare
When your contractor indicates that the start of your kitchen remodel is near, clean out all your kitchen supplies. Be realistic about your time frame; though your contractor is undoubtedly going to try to finish as quickly as possible, you are going to be without a kitchen for a period of time.
If you have concerns about the electrical wiring or plumbing in your home, ask an electrician and plumber to inspect your existing system and make any repairs as needed. You don’t want to get your kitchen put back together only to have to rip it apart again because of a faulty wire or dysfunction pipe.
If you are concerned about flooring in other parts getting damaged during the remodel, such as a wood floor, cover the flooring with plastic sheeting to protect your investment.
Watch your new kitchen become reality:
This is the part of the kitchen remodel process where it pays to keep your eye on the goal. Kitchen remodels can be dusty, though a good contractor is conscientious about the mess and should take measures to contain the regular kitchen remodel dust and dirt.
When the project is complete, enjoy! As the old saying goes, “the kitchen is the heart of the home”—and a space to use and appreciate when all the fruits of your, and your contractor’s, labor is complete.