Preparing for your kitchen renovation: 10 useful tips
November 17, 2016
You've looked around your kitchen and decided that it's time to remodel. Maybe you have your heart set on a new room that exudes rustic charm or a design that screams contemporary elegance. In any case, beginning a renovation project isn't as simple as choosing your new kitchen and having the construction men get to work – there are a number of things that need to be done in preparation for your kitchen's fabulous makeover.
Keen to prepare for your kitchen renovation but unsure how to start? Check out our list of tips below:
1. Examine the layout
An important first step is to look at the layout of your current kitchen an assess whether it is the most economical use of space and whether it suits your needs best. For example, do you really like that island with bar stools in the center? And are you happy with where your faucet is situated? Do you like the window placement? If the answer is "yes" to such questions, then the remodel will be a simple, but if the answer is "no" the renovation will likely be more comprehensive. But that doesn't have to be a negative thing. As HGTV pointed out, the layout of your kitchen can be modified or altered entirely, contingent on your design and vision. In some cases there will be limitations in terms of space and other considerations, but the message is the same – don't assume that your kitchen needs to maintain the same blueprint as before.
2. Apply for permits
There is a chance that you may need a permit for your kitchen remodel, particularly if you are looking to extend your property in any way, noted the San Francisco Chronicle, so be sure to conduct research concerning the permits that you will need and file the paperwork with your local authorities within plenty of time. After all, nothing will be more frustrating than a delayed start to your renovation due to missing paperwork.
3. Notify the neighbors
In the same way that it's necessary to notify the government, it's also crucial to inform your neighbors of your remodeling plan before work begins, the San Francisco Chronicle argued. It is the courteous thing to do, particularly if you anticipate that the remodel will create a lot of noise, which could irritate and upset those living around you. To avoid excessive disruption for others, have your contractors begin work at a reasonable hour in the morning and finish up before the evening hours set in – 8 or 9? a.m. is a good starting point, with a 5 p.m. finish time.
"Inform your neighbors of your remodeling plan before work begins."
4. Plan your budget
Another crucial step is to ensure that you have your budget planned before you even call the contractor. Work out how much you can afford and be sure to keep as close to that figure as possible. Without a planned budget it can be easy to overspend by a significant amount. For a rough idea of where your funds should be allocated, Christopher Peacock, quoted in House Beautiful, suggested that the majority of your budget – around 60 percent – should be spent on cabinetry, with the remaining balance going toward the countertops and any new appliances you may wish to purchase.
5. Keep appliances in mind
If you would like new appliances, such as a stove or fridge, you will need to ensure that your kitchen has the adequate space to accommodate them, Parade of Homes explained. That's why it's important to take measurements of your entire kitchen space prior to you make any purchasing decisions. Keep the measurements stored on your phone or laptop for easy access. The size of your new appliances may inform whether or not opt to expand the size of the kitchen or keep the current layout.
6. Consider your lifestyle
Before you settle on a design and style for your new kitchen lifestyle, HGTV advised that it's important to take your lifestyle into consideration, as it bears a notable impact on the kind of kitchen space that will suit you best. Consider things such as the following: Do you have a large family? Do people congregate in your kitchen? Do you hold regular parties? Do you cook every night or do you prefer to eat out? Once you have a clearer understanding of what you will need from your kitchen, it will be easier to strategize in terms of layout, design and appliances.
7. Ensure your design is efficient
While you may have your dream aesthetic in mind, it's wise to consider whether your ideal design is actually functional and uses space as efficiently as possible. If the answer is no, it may be time to take a different approach to your design. After all, while kitchens should indeed look captivating, sacrificing efficiency for design is never a good idea.
8. Consider enlisting a designer
If you're struggling to envision your perfect kitchen, a surefire solution is to enlist the services of a trusted designer. This strategy can be costly, but it'll be more than worth it if your dream kitchen remodel comes to fruition. HGTV also explained that designers are particularly useful when it comes to lighting design.
Head to a Wolseley Kitchen and Bath showroom, where our experts can assist you on your journey to kitchen perfection. For more information head to a showroom today!