Kitchen remodels, especially full scale can be a complex process if you don’t know what to do and when. Remember that it is not an easy process to do; beyond considering the style and flow, you need to make all the decisions such as layout, flooring, and safety. If you decide to remodel your kitchen due to whatever reason then here is the perfect guide on how to remodel your kitchen in the best way. This guide covers everything including at which point you need to start and what you need to do to complete your remodel project as smoothly as possible.
Step 1: Sit Down and Make a Good Plan
Before starting knocking down walls or going deep, you should have a clear idea of what you want from this kitchen remodel project. Sit down and think carefully about all the reasons why you do it.
You should know how much floor space you have and what improvements you need in that space? Do you need more storage or want more floor space for entertaining purposes? Would you like to add a window for a better view? Note them down and discuss them with your family members.
During this step, you have to decide whether you need a simple upgrade or want a major change. The more planning you do in the early stage the less stressful your kitchen remodels project will go.
Step 2: Kitchen Space and Layout Planning
Once you have a general idea of what you wanted in your kitchen, your main focus should be on sketching out the layout of the kitchen. When you give considerable thought to the layout and space planning, pay attention to what you like and what does not work with your current kitchen.
Is your kitchen workable when two or more people are in it for cooking? Can you easily move from the refrigerator to the sink or stove to sink? Are you happy with the eat-in kitchen or do you need a separate space for a dining set? What changes do you need to make it better and functional for your family? Take time to think about where cabinets, windows, kitchen island, and appliances are located for getting your layout right.
Step 3: Do Some Research
Do some research by browsing some Pinterest boards or using resources like home improvement magazines to find design and style inspiration. Maybe you see a style you hadn’t thought of yet or a certain layout that works well in your kitchen.
Download a photo of the kitchen you like and use it to know what type of flooring you want, what kind of cabinet design you admire, and which combination of colors will look best in your kitchen. During searching, make a decision on whether you wish an open look using a shelf or box in appearance using cabinets on all sides.
Step 4: Set Your Budget
Now you know what you want, it is time to set a preliminary budget and try to stick to it. Set aside 20 percent for the labor cost, taxes, and any shipping costs. The purpose of setting a budget in advance helps you to determine how much you can afford. Based on that, you have a better idea of what type of flooring, countertop material, appliances, and other finishes you shop to fit in that budget. Before purchasing any elements, you can do your research online or visit home stores near you to get an idea of prices and deals.
Step 5: Find and Hire an Experienced Contractor
After planning the layout and design style, you should start finding a trustworthy contractor that can handle your project with proficiency. The contractor helps you to manage your kitchen remodel project from beginning to finish and fix mistakes if it happens during the process. Besides that, it also helps in doing work that you may not want to do on yourself such as knocking down walls, wiring, or plumbing work.
Step 6: Do Some of The Work Yourself
There are some tasks in the project that you can be comfortable doing yourself if you have the equipment, skill, and confidence in doing it. Even doing small tasks such as fixture installation (faucet), upgrading hardware (changing out knobs and pulls), and adding a backsplash can save a considerable amount of money. Not knowing how to do so? You can watch videos on YouTube or read from kitchen remodeling books.
Step 7: Obtain Necessary Permits Before You Begin
Before starting your kitchen remodel work, ask your contractor to apply for specific permits. Not every kitchen remodel task requires permits. But, if your remodel is gut that includes tasks of plumbing/electrical or any structural changes then be sure you have the right permits pulled with your local village. It is better if you do this early stage as it takes some time for approval.
Step 8: Complete Your Kitchen Remodel in The Right Order
The right orders of steps to complete your kitchen remodel are as follows
- Demolition
- Any construction work
- Configure plumping
- Electrical work- Make sure your wiring is up to code.
- Paint
- Tiles installation
- Cabinets, countertop, and backsplash installation
- Sinks and faucets
- Appliances and fixtures
Order things which you require in advance if you do not want to get stuck during the process. In this step, you need to be practical and buy only necessary products if you want to complete your kitchen remodel work within your budget.
Conclusion
If you too want to remodel your kitchen in the right order then, first of all, take a look at your kitchen space. By keeping a particular style and layout in mind, think about the changes you need to do. And, do not forget to analyze the budget and size of your kitchen space.