Since we are currently running a 20% off* special on the purchase of the cabinets when you choose to remodel your kitchen with us, I thought I would share some kitchen remodeling tips with you. Planning a home remodeling project, whether you need one or just want one, can be an overwhelming process. Many homeowners are unsure of where to start and exactly what kind of decisions will need to be made during the remodel.
So, maybe this list will help add a little peace-of-mind to your upcoming home remodel and help you save a little money, too!
1. Planning and visualizing --Before you call a contractor, look at remodeling magazines, spend time looking at cabinet styles online or at your local Lowes or Home Depot. Think about the countertop, flooring, appliances, etc. you want. Keep a file of your top choices. It’s helpful for you to have an idea of what you want, so your contractor can help you with the advantages and disadvantages of products you’re considering.
2. Cabinets—Since cabinets are the focal point of most kitchens, choosing the right cabinets for your lifestyle is critical. Many homeowners aren’t aware that the type of wood you choose makes a difference when it comes to how cabinets wear and the amount of maintenance they will need. Also, cabinets are usually the highest expense, so taking 20% off the purchase price is a huge relief!
3. Forming a work triangle—One of the first things to consider is the best layout of your kitchen. When you finally get the kitchen you’ve been waiting for, you want it to be functional and easy to use. Working in your kitchen shouldn’t require lots of walking back and forth between your sink, range, and refrigerator. When you’re cooking those big family dinners, you should be able to move around quickly and efficiently.
4. Counter tops—When choosing counter tops you’ll want to research the pros and cons of each material. For example, Corian is a popular choice, but it’s not as durable as granite. It can be scorched by flame and burned by hot pans, unlike genuine stone. Corian countertops can be provided as part of one seamless unit, but if part of it gets damaged, it’s more of a problem to repair.
5. Backsplash— When you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, a backsplash is most likely not the first thing on your mind. But installing them behind the stove and above countertops throughout can make your kitchen easier to clean, and can add interesting border accents at the same time.
6. Storage space—Natural light and upper cabinet space may be hard to come by in some smaller kitchens. When you’re considering your options, you may want to look into backless cabinets with frosted glass fronts (see previous picture) to gain cabinet space without losing light. Another option is to go up and utilize your wall and ceiling space, as shown in the picture below.
7. Refrigerator space— It’s always exciting to pick-out appliances for your new kitchen. But don’t forget to make sure you buy a refrigerator that fits the space for which it was designed. We have had to modify more than one finished kitchen after a customer purchased an oversized refrigerator that didn’t fit the opening in their new kitchen.
In addition you want to make sure the ice maker on your new refrigerator is hooked-up properly. One homeowner discovered her water line was not hooked-up properly two days after a Sears installation, and had to deal with $30,000 in water damage to her home. (See ctwatchdog.com)
Hopefully these tips will help you avoid some unnecessary stress and headaches during your next kitchen remodel.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to stop by our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com, or simply scan the QR code below.
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*20% off expires June 1, 2013