Kitchen renovations can be nerve-wracking. After all, small mistakes can add up, cause issues with safety and comfort, and increase the cost of repairs or replacements. The best and most successful kitchen renovations require careful planning. Some companies recommend an approach that allows you to assess and consider all elements so that functionality works seamlessly with form and aesthetics.
This company provides everything you need for the perfect kitchen makeover. Start from scratch or make a few much-needed changes. They offer the latest and most efficient kitchen solutions to help you create the perfect kitchen. Read more about Sleek Kitchens on their site.
How to Plan a Kitchen Renovation
1. Know Why You’re Doing It
No homeowner will be undergoing a kitchen renovation if their kitchen is already perfect. Something in the kitchen is not doing what it should, which is why an improvement is necessary. Consider the reasons why your kitchen needs a change. Is it the ambiance? Is the paint peeling or is there a lack of storage space? Are the appliances less efficient? Is the space generally uncomfortable? Do you need a skid-free floor or a more functional counter?
Whatever the reason, A+ Construction & Remodeling, a reputable company in Sacramento, can help transform your kitchen into a modern and functional space, while also offering expertise in ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) construction.
2. Know Your Style
Eclectic, modern, folk, traditional, country, shabby chic, minimalist… your kitchen should be a reflection of you and your lifestyle. Some important considerations to keep in mind include:
- Your cooking habits
- Type and size of meals you prepare
- Frequency of meal preparations
- Number of people in your household
- Type of cooking tools, gadgets, and equipment you use regularly
3. Know What is Available
Research is important to give you an idea about what is available, and which designs work best for specific types of kitchens. Look for designs online or in magazines and keep tabs on new products and styles. You may already have a design in mind, and you can improve it further with a few design inspirations.
The kitchen setups that are usually posted on websites or magazines are designed by professionals. They often feature new tools and appliances, along with great approaches and some suggestions on maximizing space. This is especially helpful if kitchen space is an issue.
4. Consider Cost Considerations
Various cost considerations need to be factored into every kitchen renovation. These include:
- Cost of materials and equipment, along with required/desired accessories
- Cost of labor (this may include the cost of a plumber, electrician, builder, tiler, and painter)
5. Budget
Once you know what is available, you will have a better perspective about how to fit what you want in your budget. Set a budget before starting a renovation. The last thing you want to happen is spending more than you should on a kitchen renovation. Depending on what you want to be done, a kitchen renovation can range from about $4,000 to about $80,000. You could easily go overboard if you do not set a realistic budget.
The simplest budget rule is to set a figure – the cost of what you want to spend, then keep the expenses within it. In most cases, you will have to check your current finances to see if your budget will allow for the renovation you want. Spend only for what you can realistically afford and only for items and changes that you can use.
As a general rule, keep the maximum cost of your kitchen renovation to 3% of your property value. For example, if your home is valued at $500,000, spend only a maximum amount of $15,000 on your renovation.
6. Cutting Costs
If you can afford it, hire a professional. However, a tight budget might require you to cut corners here and there. If you must, make sure to never overestimate your ability. If you have the skills and the right (if basic) tools, you could consider simple demolition work, removal of old cabinetry, or stripping off paint as a DIY. You could save a significant amount from the total cost of renovation by using pre-assembled kitchen cabinets or furniture as well. Keep in mind that some tasks are easy and safe for you to do on your own but others, such as those that require an electrician or a plumber, should be handled by a professional.
7. Choose your design
Your design will depend on the current structure of your kitchen. Take a look at the space you have – its size, location, and layout. If you intend to expand the kitchen area, you will have to consider moving walls and relocating large appliances. Some additions might have to be considered, including power outlets, floor tiles, even windows. Consider if your current layout is effective, then work around it. If not, consider changes that will work with the kind of space you have or intend to have. Keep in mind that the kitchen design will be significantly influenced by layout, which in turn will affect the functionality of your kitchen.
8. Create Your Timeline
For projects such as a kitchen renovation, it is important to create a timeline. This is essentially your work schedule, starting from the time the first task is performed to the day the last bit of work is completed. The timeline will help you get a good perspective on how long the kitchen will be unavailable and whether or not the tradesmen you hired are doing their jobs. For a vital place such as a kitchen, you do not want any inconvenient delays.
They recommend that you include the following in your timeline:
- Demolition Work
- Build Work
- Installation
9. Get in Touch With Professionals
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start calling the professionals. Make sure to work only with licensed electricians and plumbers, and experienced tradies, including painters, builders, and tilers. You will have to discuss your plan, timeline, and desired layout with the workers, so they have a good idea about the kind of work that you require. It is likely that some changes will be made but make sure you are aware of the reasons and practicality of these changes.
To get the most in terms of service and cost, get at least three quotes from different providers to determine the best people for the job. Make sure to gather only quotes from tradespeople, suppliers, and companies with a good track record. Check for references and independent customer reviews to determine if they make a good fit.
10. Work With a Trusted Partner
Once you have a clear idea about the kind of kitchen you want to wake up to, it’s time to start finding the right solutions to create it. Their company has a wide range of products and services that cater to your needs. When you have the kind of solutions you want, completing a home project is much easier. Kitchen renovations should be worry-free projects and what better way to start a new one than working with a partner who knows the best options for your home.
