There’s a lot to think about when remodeling a kitchen, but by planning ahead and taking the process one step at a time, it might be easier than you think.
From layout to choosing a contractor to finding the perfect cabinets and countertops, we’ve taken the mystery out of remodeling your kitchen. Here are the important decisions you need to consider when remodeling your kitchen.
Generate Ideas
Spend time checking out books, magazines, websites, and tours of homes to spark ideas for your new kitchen. The kitchen section of building centers is another great source of information and inspiration.
Estimate Costs
Determine how much you can afford to spend on your kitchen remodel, and include a bit extra for unexpected expenses. A kitchen remodel will usually repay about 80% of the cost incurred, so don’t invest more than you will be able recover when you sell your home.
Planning and Layout
Enlist a kitchen designer to draw up plans for your new kitchen and help select the cabinets, countertops, and appliances to complement the design. Be sure to communicate your needs and likes to the designer.
Hire a Contractor
When hiring a contractor, check with your local home builders association to see if they are licensed and reputable. Obtain references of past jobs and check them out to be sure the contractor has a history of quality work.
Kitchen Cabinets
Replacing the cabinets in your kitchen is usually the most expensive item in a renovation. If new cabinets are not in your budget, consider refinishing or replacing the hardware on the existing cabinets instead. Major changes in the kitchen layout may involve moving or removing walls as well as rerouting plumbing and wiring.
Countertops
There is a wide array of countertop choices today including plastic laminate, natural stone, manmade quartz, concrete, and solid surface materials. Prices, looks, durability, and installation costs can vary widely depending on the material used.
Flooring
Remodeling a kitchen often involves replacing the floors. While ceramic tile is a common choice, wood floors are gaining in popularity. When installing a laminate floor, select one that is intended for use in high moisture areas.
Appliances
Function and style are the most important considerations when selecting appliances for your kitchen. Make sure the appliances you choose will meet your needs and are energy efficient.
Faucet and Sink
Kitchen sinks are available today in a wide range of materials, sizes, styles, and finishes. Choose a sink with the proper number and location of holes to accommodate your faucet and accessories like filtered water taps or soap dispensers.
Lighting
Proper lighting is an important consideration in a kitchen. Fixtures include hanging pendant lights, recessed ceiling fixtures, and low profile fluorescent lights that are mounted under hanging cabinets. Switches should be installed for each fixture, so they can be adjusted separately depending on the occasion.
Other Tips from This Episode
Simple Solutions with Joe Truini:
Kitchen Cabinet Door Rack
Inexpensive towel racks mounted on the inside of cabinet doors is a great way to store cookie sheets and cutting boards for easy access. Simply cut the racks to length, attach them to the door, and mount a plywood shelf near the bottom to hold the items in place. (Watch This Video)
Best New Products with Jodi Marks:
Ridgid Faucet and Sink Installer
The Ridgid Faucet and Sink Installer is a multipurpose tool for use under sinks that can turn a frustrating job into an easy one. Uses include tightening and removing faucet nuts and supply lines, turning shut off valves, and holding strainer baskets in place. It’s available at The Home Depot. (Watch This Video)
Thinking Green with Danny Lipford:
Eliminate Plastic Coffee Stir Sticks
The waste associated with plastic coffee stir sticks may seem small until you consider that 138 billion are thrown away every year. For a greener cup of coffee, put the cream and sugar in your cup first, then pour in the coffee. If you still need to stir your coffee, use a long piece of pasta instead. (Watch This Video)
