Steps of a Kitchen Remodel
It’s always good to start at the beginning, but with remodeling, how do you know where the beginning is? Before you start tearing out cabinets or flooring, we recommend that you decide on your renovation goals and create a plan for how you’ll achieve them.
Do you want a complete overhaul, or just surface and appliance upgrades? Do you want to make your kitchen larger by removing existing walls or adding on to your home? Maybe you just want to update your flooring and change the wall color.
After you plan the scope of your project, it’s time to get design ideas and layout inspiration. Magazines and websites like Pinterest are full of amazing ideas. Once you know how you’d like your space to look, it’s time to make it a reality by following these steps:
1. Create your budget
The very first thing you should do is establish your budget. How much are you comfortable spending, and can you realistically afford all of the upgrades you want? Once you set a budget, stick to it. Keep in mind that nearly every project will have a surprise or two. Setting aside 10% of your budget for unexpected expenses upfront can help you avoid overspending.
If you don’t end up using your entire reserve, then you can splurge on special design touches at the end of your project or just save the cash.
2. Research and hire a contractor
There are two different routes you can take with contractors: hire a general contractor to manage the whole renovation, or hire separate subcontractors for different parts of the project. Remember that contractors have busy schedules, so you may have to wait a little while before they can start your project. As soon as you have your plan and budget established, you should get bids from contractors and start making hires.
3. Take measurements
Your contractor will gather the measurements after you discuss what you want. This is important for cabinets, appliances, flooring, countertops, and so on. Keep a copy of the measurements for reference.
4. Request samples
Now the real fun begins: it’s time to start looking at materials! Order samples of cabinets, countertops, flooring, backsplashes, trim, and more early in the planning process. This will give you plenty of time to mix and match the samples and choose exactly what you want.
5. Finalize your plans
Your plans are looking good! By now, you’ve decided on the design and layout of your new kitchen, hired your contractor(s), received and reviewed all of your samples, and have some base measurements. Next up is ordering building materials, appliances, cabinets, counters, flooring, lighting fixtures, and whatever else you need.
6. Order, order, order!
The shopping and ordering process can take several weeks to months. In most cases, we recommend choosing and ordering appliances before your cabinets and countertops. For example, if you order your cabinets first, then your appliance options are restricted to those that fit the premade cutouts. However, your subcontractors will be able to custom-size your countertops and cabinets to any appliance that you want if you order them first.
With the appliances, countertops, and cabinet orders placed, it’s time to start purchasing your other materials, such as flooring, sinks, faucets, range hood, and lighting. Allow ample time for custom orders.
7. Pack it up
In the days before your contractors are going to start working, you should pack up your kitchen. Since your kitchen will be out of commission for a while, you should decide if you want to keep some small appliances in another room to cook meals or if you will be ordering a lot of takeout until the remodel is done.
8. Demolition and construction
Your new materials and appliances have arrived and look great, so your contractors will double-check your plans and measurements and start doing their thing. Depending on what you are having done, they will tear down your old kitchen and build the new one
9. Plumbing and wiring
Before new walls and flooring are installed, subcontractors will come in to work on the plumbing, wiring, electrical boxes, and switches. Professionals will ensure everything is up to code and placed correctly.
10. Walls, paint, and flooring
Walls, painting, and flooring are next, in that order. Tile or hardwood flooring must be completed before the cabinets are installed; floating flooring, vinyl flooring, and laminates must be installed after the cabinets. Your contractor and builders will know this and work accordingly.
11. Countertops
After your new cabinets are installed, Alpha Surfaces will install your beautiful new countertops and backsplash!
12. Appliances and fixtures
After your cabinets and countertops are in place, it’s time to install all of your new appliances. Sink fixtures and lighting will also go in at this time.
13. Finishing touches
It’s time for final touches like decor, curtains, and furniture. If you didn’t end up spending your 10% unexpected expense reserve, you can splurge on special touches or just save the money for a rainy day.
14. Enjoy your beautiful new space!
You made it! It’s time to move into your new kitchen. Grab your kitchen stuff and unpack everything where you want it. Now would be a great time to invite loved ones over and cook your first feast in your brand new, beautiful kitchen.
If you’ve been dreaming of a kitchen renovation and feel ready to make it a reality, get in touch with Alpha Surfaces to start design and building your new space.