Remodeling an entire kitchen can potentially become a stressful and time-consuming project, with unreliable contractors and design flaws driving up costs and impacting deadlines.
As a result, what seemed like a routine job can quickly become a headache, leaving you with a stretched budget and a final product that doesn’t fully meet your requirements.
However, that is clearly a worst-case scenario and with thorough planning, research, and preparation your kitchen remodeling project can be efficient, cost-friendly, and maybe even fun!
Read on for our 5 important steps for a successful kitchen remodeling project to help you design and build your dream space.
1. Create an achievable goal that considers the available space
It sounds very obvious but it is vital to fully consider the space you are working with to avoid your new kitchen feeling cramped, or maybe even under-utilizing open spaces which could make the room feel empty or unfinished.
Walkways are an important consideration to allow easy access around the kitchen and to give you enough room to multi-task across the various surfaces. Ensure enough room is left between cabinets, or the island if you plan to install one. Typically, walkways should be a minimum of 36 inches wide.
Take into account the swing direction of appliances and cabinet doors, leaving yourself plenty of room to maneuver, so there is no chance of doors colliding with each other. Also ensure you leave enough workspace between appliances, as a general rule, it is advised to leave 15 inches on either side of the stovetop for example.
2. Consider your budget and unexpected costs
Knowing your budget and sticking to it can be two completely different things which are why you should always take into account any unexpected costs which may occur during a kitchen remodel. These costs could include factors such as; electrical cabling and pipework replacement, plastering, the time taken off from work, new appliances, or flooring issues.
One trick to help reduce costs is to refresh, rather than replace existing cabinets. This can be achieved by painting, adding new veneers (also known as refacing), or adding new knobs, handles, fittings, and shelving.
Avoiding a major change to the kitchen layout can save a significant amount of money, so if you’re happy with the current setup and want to keep expenditure to a minimum then think about working around the existing set. This could also prevent any damage to tiling and plasterwork.
3. Seek the services of an expert kitchen designer
Using the services of an expert kitchen designer who has a proven track record and comes highly recommended can greatly ease any concerns you may have about the project. Discussing your wants and needs in detail can give the designer a clear picture, allowing them to work within your budget and provide a comprehensive plan for the contractor to work from.
A kitchen remodeling project can be more complex than most people think, with many considerations ranging from the choice of materials, to electrical and plumbing configurations – requiring the services of an expert.
4. Conduct thorough research to find the ideal contractor
This is a vital step to guarantee a smooth project without costly hiccups. Make sure you carry out thorough research on any prospective contractors, ready all reviews and case studies to gain a full insight into how they operate and the projects they have delivered.
SOD Home Group is a reliable kitchen remodeling contractor in San Jose which has been operating since 2008, delivering premier modern home remodeling services in Silicon Valley.
5. Apply for necessary permits and finalize the project plan
Once all of the above has been taken care of and you feel you are in a position to begin the project, with a detailed plan in place and your desired contractor in place it is time to take care of any necessary planning permits.
Permits may be required if you intend to relocate or add any of the plumbing, electrical or mechanical systems within your home, or if you plan to add or demolish any walls. However, for a simple remodel, without any structural work, it is unlikely this will be required. If you are unsure then you should double-check with your designer and contractors.
We wish you every success in your kitchen remodeling project and hope this post has provided some useful tips and advice. Feel free to browse the rest of our Home Decore section for more valuable insights.
