Are you getting ready to make some changes in your home? You probably have a million ideas or you’re thinking of five different things at once. This new project can be thrilling but try not to get too caught up in the excitement; Tackling a new remodeling job requires a bit of prep work so that you can ensure you will get exactly what you want within the budget you have allotted.
There is no secret to a successful remodel, you just need to know what to avoid! Before starting, take time to read this article and learn about the most common pitfalls homeowners fall prey to.
Mistake number #1: Rushing into your kitchen remodeling project.
This is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make because being unprepared makes you vulnerable to so many unforeseen circumstances. It’s good to have a well thought out plan and work your way through it. Identify what your goal is with the remodel and consider how overall kitchen look will connect to the rest of the house. While planning, mull over your budget and if you have limited funds, it’s important that you prioritize so you can make the appropriate decisions as you go along with kitchen remodeling.
Mistake number #2: Ignoring Rules and Regulations.
Be sure to check if there are permits you need to have or people you will need to notify including your neighbors or developers, if applicable. It’s advisable that you review contracts or leases before you get the kitchen remodeling project underway. You may also wish to inquire with local authorities on processes and other regulations. If you are hiring a professional, be vigilant and ask questions about rules you may not be appraised of. Ignoring rules and regulations may carry some hefty penalties, so be thorough and mindful of the law.
Mistake number #3: Hiring the wrong contractor.
Remodeling and renovation can turn into a nightmare when you hire builders or contractors that can’t deliver what you want or need. Similar to the first tip, don’t rush when hiring your contractor; take time to interview a few and go with the professional you are most comfortable with. As a general rule, be suspicious of a contractor that provided an estimate that is way below that of others because they may be underestimating costs or planning to use sub-standard materials. If you need surgery would you use the cheapest available surgeon or the best one you can afford? Same goes for your contractor.
Look for a contractor that…
• Can provide you a list of previous clients.
• Has done similar work in the past.
• Clearly understands the job, your objectives and the overall work required.
• It is licensed and insured for the work they are quoting.
• It has been in business a number of years.
Mistake number #4: Wasting valuable space.
Kitchens contain lots of stuff and usually where people spend a lot of their time in. Whether it’s adding a kitchen extension or room addition, take the time to work with your contractor and plan effective use of the existing space. Make sure you make a list of your appliances, especially the small ones and assess the importance of each. This will allow you to identify what needs to be readily available and what can be stored in one of the higher cabinets for occasional use. There are a number of strategies you can use to maximize space including:
• Make use of room dividers to create separation of different areas.
• Maximize cabinets and storage space.
• Combine rooms including an open kitchen/dining layout.
If you need more space, rather than adding another room, think about converting an attic, cellar or garage.
Mistake number #5: Forgetting about function.
Too often people get fixated on the finishes that they end up ignoring the functionality and ease of movement. It’s important that efficiency be taken into account. One of the best ways to this is by adhering to the kitchen triangle maximizes the layout and proximity of the sink, stove and refrigerator. It’s easy for people to get excited about the tiles and cabinets their beautiful refrigerator is all the way at the back of the kitchen.
Mistake number #6: Underplaying ventilation.
Good ventilation is of primary importance because a good system will allow you to expel odors and improve the indoor air quality of your kitchen and home. Kitchen remodeling is expensive enough but in terms of overall cost, a high indoor temperature can shorten the life of appliances as well as increase air conditioning costs that can be quite expensive in the long run. To some, this can be a big expense but having an adequate ventilation system is an investment that makes the household more pleasant and generally cleaner.
Mistake number #7: Poor lighting.
Kitchens cannot afford poor lighting; aside from design and ambience, it is also a matter of safety as users will be handling sharp kitchenware. The three types of lighting that needed include: general lighting, accent lighting and task lighting. When planning, evaluate specific work areas and provide each space with the type of light that it needs. Most homeowners don’t put under-cabinet lighting, but this is quite useful when you’re trying to look for that chaffing dish that might be in the back of a deep cabinet. As an added value, the better your kitchen lighting, the more people can appreciate the remodel you’ve just undertaken.
Mistake number #8: Being too trendy.
There’s nothing wrong with using the latest kitchen design but basing your entire kitchen on the present trend may be a mistake five to ten years down the line. Trends and colors change every year and you run the risk of being outdated all too quickly. Instead of pulling all your ideas out of the newest magazine, focus on being timeless and classic with a few modern touches. Using the latest colors and textures on accept pieces will make it easier and less costly to change them when they’re no longer in style.
Mistake number #9: Being too cheap.
Quality counts when it comes to the vital elements of the kitchen. You need to invest in the major areas that include the floor, cabinets, countertops and major appliances. Take for example your cabinets, after a few years, they’ll look like they’re falling apart or the heat in the kitchen will break down the finishes, you’ll end up replacing it sooner than expected which will cost you more to replace the whole set. Other items are negotiable and relatively easier to replace at a lower cost.