Top Tips For A Sane Kitchen Remodel Project
If your blood starts to boil at just the thought of remodeling your kitchen, then take heart because there are simple things that you can do to make the process go a lot more smoothly.
Here are a couple tips to get you started on your way to a sane kitchen remodel:
Tip #1: Set a Realistic Budget
While it sounds both reasonable and impossible all at the same time, setting a realistic budget for your remodel will save you a lot of headaches down the road. If you cut the budget too close, then you will have additional stress and you may not have the same amount of choices later down the road. For example, you do not want to spend a lot of money on flooring and then later not be able to purchase the oven that you decide that you want.
In order to better set your budget, you should take the following steps before you ever swing a sledgehammer:
- have an architect make drawings for the contractor to work from
- take the time to pick-out as many of your appliances and fixtures at the start
- get a very detailed estimate from your building contractor
- add-in an extra cushion, of 25% at a minimum, for unforeseen costs
Since you are paying for a licensed contractor, listen to their advice. While all of the decisions seem overly important at the time, most of the time you would be just as well off in the end by giving your contractor some leeway to make simple decisions on their own. If you can't trust that they have your best interests at heart, then you need to find a new contractor.
Tip #2: Rent a Storage Unit
Your kitchen renovation project will inevitably spill-out into other areas of your home. Kitchen renovations are large projects, and the reality is that they require space in your house to complete. You should plan on providing space for
- cutting lumber
- setting up tools
- storing bulky appliances
- storing building supplies
- storing tools short-term
One of the best places you can provide for excess space, that is out of the way, is your garage. However, if your garage is like that of most people, then you will need to rent a storage unit and move some of your extra stuff offsite.
Once you have a space secured, then box up all of your kitchen items. Label the boxes well, and place them into storage. Even though you will be tempted to save items "just in case you need them," try to resist the urge. Pack it all and store it. You need the space more right now! Take a look at websites like http://www.securityselfstorageelginil.com/ to figure out what type of storage unit you need.
Conclusion
By setting a realistic budget, based upon the best cost estimates possible, you can help to reduce your kitchen remodel stress. Additionally, do your family a favor and rent a storage unit and move as much of your excess stuff that you can for this temporary need. Low stress and excess space make for a much happier family.
