Taking on the project of a kitchen remodel is a big decision for any homeowner. The process can come with a lot of stress and worries as it gets completed, but the final result will transform the heart of your home. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, check out this list of basic steps you should consider during the process.
Assessing Needs and Wants
Kitchen remodels can quickly add up when it comes to the real-life cost, so deciding where to put your money is important. Before beginning your remodel, you should create a list of things that need to change about the kitchen for functionality and things that you want to change about the kitchen. Prioritize the list according to your budget and remember, the needs should always come first.
Designing and Planning
Before your remodel can begin, you have to have a plan. Consider the classic floor plans used in kitchens and determine which one would work the best for your family using the space that you have available.
Hiring a Contractor
Determine if the work to be done is something that you can do yourself or if a contractor is needed. Larger remodels that include rewiring, rebuilding, and a major redesign of the floor plan should be handed over to a contractor. Smaller cosmetic changes are things you can likely do yourself at a much lower cost.
Preparing to Live Without a Kitchen
You should prepare to lose your kitchen during the remodel. Plan to spend more nights eating out and invest in disposable products to avoid washing dishes in the sink. Kitchen remodels are arguably one of the most inconvenient remodels in the home.
Demolition
Demolition is the fun part of a remodel! Put on your safety gear and start tearing out old cabinets and appliances. If you plan to knock out any walls, you should contact a contractor to ensure they aren’t low bearing.
Structural Build Out, Plumbing, Wiring, HVAC
During this phase of your remodel, you should leave it to the professionals. Plumber, electricians, and HVAC technicians will handle the technicalities of your remodel before you continue. Attempting to perform this work yourself is dangerous and could lead to costly mistakes.
Finishing Walls and Ceilings
Once the technical portion of your remodel is done, it’s time to rebuild. Before replacing the drywall and painting your walls, consider adding new insulation. Homeowners can finish walls and ceilings on their own, but the process tends to be messy and time consuming.
Laying Flooring
Next, your flooring needs to be installed. Discuss different flooring options with a contractor to understand the pros and cons as well as price differences of different materials. Some materials may come with a higher price tag but a longer life span, so be sure to consider all factors at hand.
Installing Cabinets and Countertops
Cabinet and countertop installation is not difficult, but getting it right is vital to the final result of your new kitchen. Hire a contractor or bring over a few helpers to begin installing your new cabinets and countertops to ensure they’re level and straight.
Installed Appliances, Plumbing, and Wiring Fixtures
Your new appliances and wiring fixtures will be easy to install, many companies will even install new appliances upon delivery. If you’re unfamiliar with the plumbing process, it’s best to hire a plumber to hook up your new dishwasher and other appliances.
Inspections and Last Touches
Your kitchen is finished, now it’s time for an inspection. Your kitchen has to be approved and signed off on before you can consider it done, but there may be a few things you have to address upon inspection before final approval. The final step is cleaning and restocking your kitchen so you can begin enjoying all of your hard work!
Ready to start your kitchen remodeling project? Give DLM Remodeling a call today at 781-789-8827.
