What to Consider Before Your Kitchen Remodel

On every kitchen renovation a proper plan can make this task easier for you. From making the remodeling plan to purchasing the raw material, there are a lot of steps involved in a kitchen improvement project.

If you are planning to remodel your kitchen, consider the following things before you proceed with your kitchen renovation.

Current Layout

If you want to save money on your kitchen renovation, don’t change the kitchen’s existing layout. Sticking to the current layout doesn’t mean that you can’t change the color scheme, or you can’t change the location of cabinets. It means that the major systems like plumbing, gas and electric supplies should be left intact.

This way, you will save a lot of money. Moving or extending utilities will increase your expenses like installing additional sinks or adding additional wiring.

Budget

If you have the required skills and experience, you can do some of the work yourself and save some money. But, if you are not experienced enough, it’s better to invest some money and hire the services from experienced home remodeling contractors.

First, you should make a budget for your kitchen remodel. From renting tools to a contractor’s service charges, include every expense in your budget. Also, add another 20% for additional hidden charges.

Appliances

A kitchen is incomplete without some important appliances including an oven, stove, cooktop, dishwasher, refrigerator and others.

Buy energy-efficient appliances that fit your lifestyle and budget. For example, if you have a small family, you will not need that chef-grade six-burner stovetop.

Also, select a reliable brand. Choose the retailers who offer the best warranties on kitchen appliances.

Contractors and Permits

Finding the right contractor is very important for your kitchen improvement project. Hire a contractor who can get the job done at the best rates. Get references from the people you know. Word-of-mouth can be a great help in selecting one of the best local home improvement contractors.

Also, obtain all the necessary permits from your town or village before starting your kitchen remodeling project.

Lighting

Lighting can make or break a kitchen. So, make sure to have a great lighting plan that can give your kitchen a spectacular look. During a kitchen remodel, most people do not pay proper attention to upgrade lighting.

You can replace your old kitchen windows with the new, bigger ones that will let in more natural light. Use under-cabinet and recessed lights, to enhance the beauty of your kitchen. In the daytime, you can control the amount of light with the dimmer switches.

Cabinetry and Countertop

Cabinetry is one of the biggest investments in a kitchen. So you must pay attention in selecting the cabinets for your kitchen. It’s better to spend a little more and go with high-quality, wood cabinets with quality hinges and drawer slides.

Choose a countertop in contrast with your cabinets to make each stand out. You can purchase stone slabs including Granite, Quartz and even Marble but shop around until you find the right price. Keep in mind that there are also affordable options like high end Laminate and Concrete that can achieve the same look at a fraction of the price.