If your kitchen is old, outdated, not functional, or just plain isn’t your taste, you’re probably considering a kitchen remodeling project. Taking on a project like that can be exciting, but it can also be confusing. There are many details you need to take into consideration in order for the kitchen remodeling process to run smoothly and to keep you from stressing out. What are some of the common mistakes people make when they take on a kitchen remodeling project, and what can you do to avoid them?
Make sure you know what you’re getting into when you start a kitchen remodeling project
Poor Budgeting: When you take on a kitchen remodeling project, there is always the possibility that unexpected expenses could arise, such as outdated plumbing, code-violating wiring, or leaky pipes (which may have lead to damaged under-flooring.) When situations like these arise, you’re not only looking at an extended remodeling process, but your also looking at an extended budget as well. How can this be avoided? First of all, you need to be honest about what you can afford with your general contractor. And when they suggest to you that you set aside part of your budget for unanticipated expenses, you should do it – better safe than sorry.
Poor Planning: A good kitchen remodeling project requires more than quality products and excellent installers; thorough planning is essential. If you don’t plan your remodeling project thoroughly, you could let an important piece of the puzzle fall through the cracks. When you hire a general contractor to help you plan and implement your kitchen remodeling project, you’ll eliminate a lot of guesswork and have an expert helping you every step of the way.
Sizing Concerns: When you’ve taken the time to install just the right cabinetry, countertops and flooring, you don’t want to have to deal with sizing concerns for appliances. If you know you will need new appliances in the near future, you absolutely should factor that in to your kitchen remodeling project. Why? The dimensions of the new appliances likely will not match the dimensions of the old ones, and even an inch can make a world of difference. Rather than having to tear up your countertops or cabinetry to make new appliances fit, make it a priority to decide if you need new ones or not at the beginning of the job.
Kitchen Impossible: You need to know that your kitchen remodel is going to cause some major inconvenience to your life for a while. That is just the way it is. Prepare yourself for inevitable kitchen downtime by stocking up on frozen microwaveable dinners and keeping take-out restaurant numbers handy. Also, if your home is where everyone gathers for the holidays, take that into account, too – either plan to spend the holidays elsewhere or schedule your project so it doesn’t interfere.
Prepare for The Long Haul: Sometimes, your kitchen remodel can take longer than anticipated. Your general contractor will do their level best to make sure every aspect of the project is properly managed, but you should always expect the unexpected. There could be additional work that you might not have considered, materials might be on backorder, or even the weather could cause delays. Just know that a good contractor works to troubleshoot and keep the project on task, despite unexpected circumstances.
When you’re ready to remodel your kitchen, the best first step is to contact the Homebuilders and Remodelers Association of Mohawk Valley. We can put you in touch with a kitchen remodeling expert who will help you bring your dream kitchen into reality. Contact us today to find out how we can assist you.