If you have never renovated a kitchen before then you are probably in for a world of pain. Most homeowners take on their first kitchen remodels without any clue what they are doing.
Not only that but they make expensive mistakes that blow their budgets and timeframes. Before you know it that dream kitchen you have been envisioning turns into a complete nightmare.
The good news is that anyone can avoid these issues by coming into their remodel prepared with the right knowledge.
What's covered here:
- Why Renovating Your Kitchen Is Always Worth It
- How to Set a Realistic Budget
- Don't Make These Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes
- Finding the Help You Need
- Planning Tips to Set Yourself Up For Success
Are you ready to learn what you need to know before beginning your kitchen renovation?
Then keep reading!
Kitchen Remodeling – Why It's Worth It
Kitchen renovations are the most popular home renovation project across the country.
They come second to none when it comes to adding value to your home. Not only will a kitchen renovation brighten up your home but it can also save you money in the long run.
The kitchen is the heart of every home. It's where most meals are prepared and where families spend time together.
But what most people don't know is that a kitchen remodel can do so much more than just look pretty.
Kitchen renovations are worth it because they make you love your home again! Check out this industry study showing that over 84% of homeowners love their home more after remodeling their kitchen.
Working with kitchen design experts can help you achieve your dream kitchen. Many DIY homeowners try to take on too much without any professional guidance.
By having kitchen design services map out every detail of your kitchen from start to finish, you will avoid costly mistakes and end up with a kitchen that you actually love.
Kitchen renovations are worth it because they…
- Increase the value of your home
- Help you save money in the long run
- Create a space where you want to spend time
- Bring your family together
- Help you love your home again
Kitchen Renovation Budget – Set The Correct Budget
If there is one thing most homeowners do wrong, it would be not budgeting enough.
A kitchen renovation is not a cheap home improvement project to take on. When you go into something without a budget, you are begging for problems.
Kitchen renovations on average cost homeowners between $18,000 to $25,000 for small remodels. Large kitchen renovations range from $55,000 to upwards of $100,000.
Some people will say more or less but that is the correct ballpark you should expect.
The difference between a small kitchen remodel and a large one is cabinetry, floors, and changes to the layout.
When setting your budget there are a couple of things you should always consider….
Never go into a remodel without a 10- 20% buffer for unexpected expenses. When you start tearing into your old kitchen you will likely find some things you didn't see before.
Broken pipes, old electrical wires, and structural issues are some things that love to show at bad times. By planning for these types of scenarios you won't have to worry.
Kitchen Renovation Mistakes – Avoid These Common Errors
I cannot stress this enough how much of a difference hiring a professional makes.
If you are reading this then I know you are trying to do as much DIY as possible. There is nothing wrong with that but there are certain things you should always leave to the experts.
Renovating a kitchen is difficult, and most people make the same mistakes when they do it for the first-time.
By knowing these mistakes beforehand you will save yourself money, time, and a headache.
Not planning everything out before starting the renovation.
Try to visualize your dream kitchen before lifting a finger. Where will everything go? What materials will you use? What appliances do you need?
These are all questions you should know the answer to before your remodeling team shows up.
Picking things based on looks rather than functionality.
Counter tops, cabinets, paint color, and flooring are like the blank canvas of your kitchen. Just because you might love a certain color does not mean it will look good on your kitchen.
Opening drawers, cabinet space, work triangle, and traffic patterns all should be considered when remodeling your kitchen.
Trying to DIY everything.
This goes back to my first point on common mistakes. There are certain aspects of your kitchen renovation that should always be taken care of by professionals.
Electrical, plumbing, cabinet installs are things you don't want to mess around with. If you hire a professional cabinet installer they will have the tools and expertise to get it done right.
Not Planning For Lighting or Ventilation
Lighting and ventilation are often an afterthought for most people when remodeling their kitchen. Addition of ambient, task, and accent lighting can make any kitchen pop.
Ensure you have enough ventilation otherwise you will have smoke and odor problems.
Hiring The Right People For The Job
There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to kitchen renovations. Demolition, construction, cabinet installation, flooring, painting.
Doing all of these things yourself will drive you insane. If you do not have any experience in these fields then I recommend you leave it to the professionals.
Here are a few things to look for when hiring kitchen renovation contractors.
- Experience – You want to hire kitchen renovation contractors that specialize in renovating kitchens. Hiring general contractors that do everything will cost you more.
- Referrals – Always ask to see work they have done before. Look at their portfolio to get an idea of the quality of their work.
- Communication – Listen to how they are communicating with you. Professional contractors will walk you through every step of the process and answer any questions you have.
- Get A Quote – Make sure you get a detailed quote from your renovator before you sign on the dotted line. Everything should be included in writing.
Conclusion
Remodeling your kitchen for the first time is always scary but doesn't have to be.
By taking the time to plan everything out and preparing for the unknown you will set yourself up for success.
Kitchen Remodel Tips – Recap
- Set Budget (and don't blow it)
- Plan
- Function > Form
- Hire help for anything you're unsure about
- Think long-term
Remember these 5 things and you can't go wrong with your first kitchen renovation. Don't forget to prepare and plan ahead of time, these are the keys to success.
What to Know Before Starting Your First Kitchen Renovation