subject: Planning A Successful Kitchen Remodel [print this page] The linoleum is peeling up off the floorboards. The cupboards are faded and cracked. The sink and countertops are from the 70s and the appliances are on their last legs. It's time for a complete kitchen remodel. But where do you begin? Planning ahead before you even touch anything in the kitchen is essential for a successful kitchen remodel.
The first step to the perfect remodel isn't the cupboards, the floors, or the appliances. Before you start shopping for any of that stuff, you need to find the right person to begin the complete remodel of your kitchen. Finding a reliable general contractor that can handle the construction of your remodel will be the most important step. Your general contractor will be key to staying on time, staying on budget, finding the right materials, etc. You don't want someone who will cut corners just to get your project done in a week. You want someone who is dedicated to details, craftsmanship, timeliness, and execution. Ask for recommendations from trusted friends who have done similar remodels or projects.
The next step in your kitchen remodel is coming up with a budget. As with any project, a budget will help you stay on task and avoid spending too much on wants instead of needs. There are a few things that must be done to stick to an affordable budget. First, don't completely redesign the layout of the kitchen. Try to stick with the existing layout and make improvements here and there. That will help keep costs down. Cutting into walls may only reveal further problems that need taking care of. Next, plan for the worst but hope for the best. Don't be so optimistic with your budget that you think nothing will go wrong. Make sure you've got enough to cover emergencies and unforeseen costs. And most importantly, distinguish your needs from your wants. Even though you may want that top of the line refrigerator with all the bells and whistles, maybe the less expensive model will do just fine for your needs.
The next step is to plan your design carefully in advance. You can do this by looking at magazines or books and making a portfolio of the samples of things that you like. If you see an example of a countertop that you like in a magazine, tear it out and put it in the portfolio. If you do this for a few months in advance it will give you and your contractor a much better idea of what you are looking for.
By following these pre-remodel steps, you can make sure everything is in place when it comes time to start the dirty work to turn your old kitchen into a beautiful new space.
