Remodeling a Kitchen

Remodeling a kitchen is a daunting undertaking, but the value and beauty added to your home makes it worth every effort.  You can spend a few hundred dollars for a new appliance to update the kitchen, or spend thousands redoing everything from the countertops, to the floor, to the appliances and the cabinets.

Remodeling a kitchen can be difficult.  If you are an absolute novice, do some additional research before getting started, and seek advice of a contractor or experienced renovator.

Planning

1. Decide your budget and what you are want to accomplish with a remodel.  You should expect it to cost a little more than you anticipate, so be conservative.  Consider a home equity loan or doing the job one piece at a time if funds are limited.


2. Head to home improvement stores to look at prices on everything from cabinets to backsplash.  Compare quality and costs of appliances, flooring, and countertops.  Add installation costs unless you are planning to do the remodeling.


3. Reuse your cabinetry if possible.  They can be refaced easily. You can also buy new cabinets or “used” cabinets, cabinets that a dealer may have had returned or replaced, but still in excellent condition.


4. Consider flooring.  There are multiple surfaces.  Some of the most popular are linoleum, hardwood, laminate, carpet, tile or polished concrete.  Many laminates offer the look of hardwood, but are much easier to clean and maintain.


5. Update lighting.  There are several styles, such as a lighted chandelier or ceiling fan, to recessed can lights.  There are a wide range of prices and options.


6. Decide on the countertop materials you wish to use.  High end finishes include granite or marble, while more reasonably priced options are ceramic tile or stone. Budget is certainly a concern, but you should consider the durability of the material.

Installation

1. Remove everything if you are remodeling the entire kitchen.  The demolition stage is messy and time consuming, so be prepared for the hard work involved.


2. Paint or wallpaper at this stage.  You can go back and fix any issues at the end.


3. Install the cabinets and countertops. You may want a contractor to put in the countertops, as they can be tricky and mistakes are extremely costly, especially if it is granite or marble.


4. Lay the flooring.  Tile, hardwood and linoleum projects are good for do-it-yourself workers, or you can hire a contractor. The type of flooring you choose will determine the steps you have to take with installation.


5. Add your new lighting. Have an electrician wire the kitchen, and install the actual light fixtures yourself as a cost saving measure.


6. Bring in the appliances.  New ones can be installed by the delivery crew. Finish your remodeled kitchen with decorative pieces and new window coverings.