8 Tips to Planning a Kitchen Remodel
Homeowners eagerly anticipate a kitchen remodel. They cannot wait to see the end result. However, a homeowner may find they are disappointed when the work is done. This disappointment can be avoided by taking some simple steps. The following 8 tips become of great help as this process goes forward.
Take an Island on a Test Run
When planning a kitchen remodel, many people decide to incorporate an island into the plan. Those who have never had an island before often don't realize how much space they take up. To see if this is a feasible addition to the space, choose an island. Make a mockup of the island from cardboard or scrap wood and place it in the existing kitchen. Leave it in place for a few days to see if it serves as a help or a hindrance. This ensures the island doesn't become a headache once the remodeling project is complete and the island is permanently installed.
Consider Investing in Duplicates
Some people love to cook, but find they can't make as much as they want to. Their existing appliances cannot handle the load. Anyone who is in this situation may wish to double up on frequently used appliances when remodeling. For example, choose a double oven rather than a single one or invest in a second microwave. The cook can be using one above the stove when cooking a big meal, while another family member uses the second one to make a snack. This ensures everyone is happy and nobody gets in the cook's way.
Avoid Floor Gaps
Homeowners may find they have a gap between the floor and the new kitchen cabinets if the old flooring isn't replaced. Measure carefully to avoid this problem. If gaps do exist and they are less than 3/4", molding is a great way to hide them.
Plan for Meals
Although eating out regularly may seem like a novelty when the kitchen remodeling project first begins, many people tire of fast food and sit-down restaurants. Plan for this before any work begins and come up with meal ideas that can be made with small appliances. Move the refrigerator and small appliances to another part of the home and set up a temporary kitchen. Use a slow cooker, electric pressure cooker, griddle, and more to prepare meals at home. Not only will the meals taste better, but the money saved can be used for decor for the kitchen once the project is complete.
Plan a Vacation
If possible, plan a vacation during the kitchen remodel. This saves the family a lot of hassle, and workers will have more room to get the work done if nobody else is present in the home. However, make sure the contractors are reputable before taking this step and ask a friend or family member to check in with the team daily.
Hold Off on Ordering Countertops
People often order their countertops when they order the cabinets. When the countertops arrive, they may not have the same dimensions due to out-of-square walls. By waiting until the cabinets are installed to order the countertops, homeowners find they can avoid a gap between the wall and the countertops.
Choose a Lighting Scheme
Countless individuals choose to go with recessed lighting for the kitchen. However, other options exist that should be considered. For example, surface-mount fixtures serve as an excellent choice. The light they provide is more even, and the room doesn't look so sterile. Use layered lighting for the best results in this room. In addition to the surface-mount fixtures, look into hanging light fixtures over an island and under-cabinet lights to illuminate the counters. This is one room where ample light is essential to ensure people don't get hurt when preparing meals.
Consider Flooring Options
Stone floors offer durability, which is why many people choose them for the kitchen. However, cork and wood are more comfortable on the feet, particularly for people who spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Research different flooring options before deciding on one to ensure the right one is selected.
Surviving a kitchen remodel is possible. People do it every day. However, thriving during this project serves as more of a challenge. With the above tips, anyone can get through this project easily, so implement them today for a great remodeling experience.
