STEP BY STEP GUIDE ON HOW TO REMODEL YOUR KITCHEN
A kitchen is the heart of the home. It is used by all house members, daily. Whether it is the designated chef of the house cooking a meal, or if it's a quick midnight fridge standoff. It needs to be a friendly and functioning space. If you are looking to renovate that space to a place that’s more comfortable and functional. This guide will shed more light on the main points you will need to have a successful remodeling.
PLANNING THE KITCHEN RENOVATION
Just like our bathroom guide, you will need to answer some questions before starting the remodeling process:
1- What is my budget?
Generally, kitchen renovations cost somewhere between $20K to $50K. Put into consideration, materials, new appliances, and labor. Set 10-20% for unexpected expenses that often occur in renovation projects.
2- What is my timeline?
A kitchen renovation takes around 8 to 10 weeks. Having a set schedule will reduce your stress and keep you on track. Know the materials availability as well as the contractor’s availability. For instance, we are open for consultations all business week from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Try to avoid the holiday seasons Unless you are planning a very long vacation or have other arrangements for dining; you do not want to start remodeling around the 4th of July and have an uncooked turkey.
Friendly tip: When planning the schedule add two-three extra weeks so surprises are not as surprising.
3- What is the layout that I have at the moment?
Keep in mind what your kitchen looks like. You need to know that some features might need to stay the same due to plumbing or electrical constraints. If you want to change the layout completely, you will need a more extensive and costly renovation. You can always hire a professional to get an estimate of the house’s condition
4- What is your vision for the new Kitchen?
When redoing your kitchen you will need to have a crystal clear vision of it. Are you going for a professional kitchen with a lot of counter space? Or is it a family-oriented theme you want for gatherings? You will need a mood board to collect all your ideas. You can find more inspiration in magazines, websites, or kitchen showrooms.
Friendly tip: Check out Pinterest, it has a million ideas and limitless inspiration pictures and boards and they are all aesthetically pleasing.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS FOR YOUR KITCHEN REMODELING
Now that you answered the four questions above, you have to know that there are a variety of options when it comes to the materials you can use when renovating your kitchen. Let’s list them:
1-Cabinetry:
This is the center of attention in your kitchen. 30% of kitchen renovations are cabinets. You can use granite, quartz, or laminate. There is also solid wood and plywood which are considered higher-end options, while MDF, particleboard, and laminate can be more cost-friendly. For eco-friendly options, there are materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood.
2-Countertops:
25% of most renovations are countertops. You can use granite, quartz, or laminate for countertops, as well. It solely depends on your budget and the aesthetic. To know more, marble has a luxurious look but it needs more maintenance, while quartz is durable and comes in a wide range of colors. These materials can be found at our showroom.
3-Flooring:
kitchen floors should be easy to clean since there is usually a lot of spilling and messes in the kitchen. Your new floors could be hardwood, tile (ceramic or porcelain), vinyl, and laminate. Not to forget eco-friendly options, bamboo or cork. Surprisingly, Flooring is 20% of kitchen remodelings.
4-Back Splash:
You can unleash your creativity when you are working on this part of your kitchen. Ceramic or porcelain tile, glass, stainless steel, and stone are all materials that can be used. Many of these materials can be found at our showroom.
5-Fixtures and Hardware:
Stuff from the kitchen sink, faucet, and cabinet handles add character to your kitchen. Favor durability over appearance but still make sure they fit into your overall design. We provide samples to your home for you to be able to view in your kitchen's light, as colors and textures.
DEMOLISHING YOUR OLD KITCHEN
Now that you have your mood board ready and you picked out the materials, you are ready to tear down your old cabinets and move your old appliances. However, that doesn’t mean swinging a sledgehammer through your walls. Keep in mind the below:
Are there any existing features you want to keep or are you aiming for root changes?
Considerably evaluate your kitchen and see if there is anything you would prefer to keep the same. It could be cabinetry, countertops, etc... You could have a vintage stove that belonged to a family member and you absolutely love it. The floors might be in excellent condition and do not need renovation. This will save you a ton of money and retain some of the old kitchen’s character. Just make sure that what you are keeping from the old kitchen flows with the new one’s aesthetic.
Let’s list some things you must remember:
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SAFETY, SAFETY, SAFETY: Remodeling your kitchen could be an entertaining process. Nevertheless, safety gloves, safety goggles, and sturdy footwear is a must. Double-check that the area you are working in is well-ventilated, particularly if you're dealing with dust or fumes.
Friendly tip: Just in case have a first aid kit around handy
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Professional assessment: Get someone that knows their way around the structure, plumbing, and electrical systems. So you are alerted about potential issues such as load-bearing walls, old wiring, or plumbing that you may not be able to identify on your own.
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Environmental Considerations: Materials like asbestos or lead paint exist in old houses and they can be very hazardous. For homes built before 1978, it's worth getting a professional to take a look before beginning demolition.
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Debris Removal: Debris is inevitable. Renting a dumpster is a very efficient way to deal with it, but we recommend checking the local regulations.
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Salvage and Donate: If you replace any of your cabinets, and appliances donating them to organizations like Habitat for Humanity's ReStores will advocate for you to reduce waste and it just might get you a tax deduction.
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Temporary Kitchen: While revamping your kitchen there will not be a place for you to cook. You will need a small space with your essentials like a microwave and a small table just temporarily move them into another room.
CABINET TYPES FOR YOUR REMODLED KITCHEN
1-Stock Cabinets
These are pre-made ones that come in standard sizes. They are extremely affordable and they are easy to find. One downside is that they offer limited styles, finishes, and sizes.
2-Semi-Custom Cabinets
These are the next level of stock cabinets. They offer more style options and have adjustable sizes. They're often available through home centers and kitchen design stores.
3-Custom Cabinets
These are the creme de la creme. So it is no surprise that they are the most expensive. Yet, they are the most flexible when it comes to design. Custom cabinets are built specifically to your need and desire and they are ordered from custom cabinet makers.
4-Material and Finish
Just choose the right materials and finishes from the list mentioned above. Installation can be a fun DIY project, but hiring a professional can make you feel confident that the job is done correctly and quickly.
Friendly tip: ALWAYS measure before ordering, and check all cabinets for damage before installation.
COUNTERTOP AND BACKSPLASH TYPES FOR YOUR REVAMPED KITCHEN
Countertops and backsplash add that snappy snap to your kitchen’s can aesthetics and functionality. There's a sea of materials to look at, each with its unique properties, aesthetics, and price points.
1- Granite: An extremely durable and heat-resistant material, granite lends a luxurious and natural look to your kitchen. It's available in a wide array of colors and patterns but requires regular sealing to prevent staining.
2- Quartz: Quartz countertops are engineered stone products that offer the beauty of stone with enhanced durability and lower maintenance than granite.
3- Laminate: The budget-friendly option. Modern laminate can mimic the look of wood, stone, or even quartz. While it may not offer the same durability or heat resistance as natural stone, it's easy to maintain.
4- Solid Surface: Corian and other like materials, offer a seamless look and are available in numerous colors and designs. They are stain-resistant but not as heat-resistant as stone options.
5- Wood/Butcher Block: For a warm, natural look, wood or butcher block countertop are your go-tos. These require regular sealing to prevent damage from moisture and stains but can be sanded and refinished if necessary.
6- Concrete: these countertops are highly customizable. They can be dyed in different colors and finished with various textures. They as well require sealing to prevent staining and chipping.
When it comes to choosing your backsplash, the possibilities are limitless.
Ready for another list? Here we go:
1- Tile: Ceramic or porcelain tile is a popular choice for backsplashes because of its durability, affordability, and wide range of colors and designs.
2- Glass: Glass backsplashes provide a sleek, modern look. They can be installed as large panels for a seamless appearance, or as tiles.
3- Stone: Natural or engineered stone backsplashes can match your countertop for a seamless look, or provide a contrasting accent.
4- Metal: For a modern or industrial look, consider stainless steel, copper, or tin backsplash panels.
TYPES OF LIGHTING IN YOUR REMODELED KITCHEN
Appliances go hand in hand with the kind of lighting you are planning to get. Lighting will significantly affect the ambiance, the perceived size of your kitchen, and definitely functionality.
1-Ambient Lighting:
This is the general lighting that provides overall illumination to the kitchen. This is often combined with ceiling-mounted fixtures, recessed lighting, or wall-mounted fixtures. You want to create soft, even lighting that minimizes shadows and helps you move around the kitchen safely.
2-Task Lighting:
This lighting is used in areas where detail-oriented tasks happen. Cooking, reading recipes, and chopping vegetables. Under-cabinet lights are a common type of task lighting in kitchens, providing bright illumination for countertops.
3-Accent Lighting:
This is the decorative one. It’s used to highlight architectural features or decor, such as open shelving, a beautiful backsplash, or artwork. Accent lights might be in the form of strip lights or spotlights.
INSTALLING NEW FLOORS FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN
Flooring is a primary component in any kitchen renovation. It will be facing spills and drops. It also complements the design of your new kitchen.
1- Hardwood Flooring: Hardwood is a timeless choice. It brings warmth and a natural feel to your kitchen. But, it requires a bit more maintenance as it can be susceptible to water damage. Consider choosing a hardwood with a strong finish or opt for engineered hardwood for better moisture resistance.
2- Tile Flooring: Tiles (ceramic or porcelain) are extremely durable and water-resistant, making them a good fit for kitchens. They come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and patterns, allowing you to create a custom look. Just keep in mind that they can be cold underfoot.
3- Laminate Flooring: This is a more budget-friendly option that can replicate the look of hardwood or tile. Modern laminate is durable and easy to install and maintain, but it can be prone to water damage over time.
4- Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl is another budget-friendly option. It is highly water-resistant and comfortable underfoot. It's available in a wide variety of designs, including those that mimic tile and wood.
5-Stone Flooring: Natural stone (such as slate, marble, or travertine) provides a high-end look and is quite durable. However, stone can be more expensive and requires regular sealing to prevent stains.
6- Cork Flooring: We have to mention an eco-friendly option. Cork is comfortable to stand on and has insulating properties. It is also naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests.
Once you make up your mind regarding the flooring type, make sure that the installation is perfect. Do not forget that there are professionals for this to spot warping, lifting, or water damage. You may feel like you have your gip around the flooring and decide to do it yourself. However, for certain types of flooring, hiring a professional could be needed.
CHOOSING NEW APPLIANCES
Whatever you choose for appliances just make sure to take into account your cooking needs, energy efficiency preferences, and budget.
And here comes the appliances list:
1- Refrigerator: You could go for a top freezer, a bottom freezer, or a French-door style. A built-in or counter-depth model would give the new kitchen a sleek look.
2- Oven/Stove: Gas, electric range, cooktop, and a wall oven are all options you can choose from.
3- Dishwasher: The size of the dishwasher, noise level, energy efficiency, and integration with cabinetry is what you will need to consider here.
4- Microwave: Ask yourself do you want a countertop model, an over-the-range microwave, or a built-in one.
5- Ventilation Hood: Just make sure it’s functional and that it complements the style of your newly remodeled kitchen.
Friendly reminder: Take care that all the manufacturer's guidelines are followed.
ADDING FINAL TOUCHES TO YOUR REMODELED KITCHEN
Now it’s time for the cherry on top, the finishing touches!
A fresh coat of paint, Hardware, some window Treatments, Lighting Fixtures, and Furniture are all gadgets to transform your new kitchen from just functional to a comfortable personalized space. You can also add some decorative accents, like a piece of art or a trendy clock. Do not forget organizational tools, to put ice on the fact that your kitchen is always tidy and you are using the entire storage capacity; and ease the cleaning process too.
You are all set to go ahead and sledgehammer your old kitchen and get that new renovated one you have always dreamed of. It’s time to see your mood boards and vision come to life. When you are all done, do not forget to sit back, look around, and praise yourself for doing all the hard work and creating a space that will hold a lot of memories to come.
REMODELING COMPANY SERVING ALEXANDRIA, VA