Watch Out for These Common Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes

Every few years, you may find that you’d like to remodel your kitchen. A fresh update keeps the kitchen modernized and adds to the home’s overall value. There are some mistakes that can happen when you remodel, so it’s prudent to take the time to get some tips on how to do things properly, efficiently, and affordably. Watch out that you don’t make the following mistakes:

Not Having a Clear Vision of Your Kitchen Remodel

One mistake homeowners make is not having a clear vision of what they really want. Most know they would like to have the latest appliances or even have an idea of a color scheme that attracts them. However, both of these don’t create a clear picture of what the final product will look like.

Before purchasing material or appliances, make sure you clearly understand your remodel and have it on paper. A detailed drawing or picture of your end goal makes certain you are not surprised halfway through the project with something you do not want.

Forgetting to Create a Plan

Whether doing the work yourself or contracting it out, there are several steps that a remodel must take through completion. After you have a clear vision of what you want, sit down and write out the steps of the remodel. For example, any remodel will also involve a demolition. Each demo creates debris that must be cleared from the home before the construction phase begins. Not having a plan in place will put your project behind schedule.

Begin the plan by asking yourself questions about things that could occur during each phase of the process. Use the answers to the questions to make the plan as detailed as possible.

Not Obtaining the Required Permits

Whether in a city or an HOA, many communities have rules in place that require you to obtain permits before any type of demolition or construction work can begin. Don’t make the mistake of starting a project and learning this fact later. You can find yourself paying fines to the municipality or sued by an HOA for not following these rules. Be sure to research if any permission is required before starting your kitchen remodel project.

Settling on Poor Material and Workmanship

One of the biggest kitchen remodeling mistakes to watch out for occurs when we think cheaper means better. This is true of any contractors hired or materials used. The quality of both of these will dictate any added value to a home. A contractor who takes shortcuts and does a shoddy job will show directly in the final product. The same goes for any cheap materials you use. The problem with low quality is that it does not last, and your new kitchen remodel will soon show poor results after a short period of time.

Choosing the Wrong Appliances for Your Kitchen

For do-it-yourself remodelers, be sure to choose appliances that fit, have the right connections, and are powered by your current systems. For example, you may fall in love with a gas stove only to find your kitchen not supplied with a gas hookup.

Another is a simple measuring mistake. How horrible would it be after your construction phase is over, only to find your new refrigerator does not fit into the space you designed for it. Make sure you speak with your kitchen supply experts during your planning phase and have them help you pick the right appliances that meet your expectations.

Not Having a Place for Cooking And Food Storage

This mistake is more about having a backup plan than a short term solution. Obviously, you have thought out what you will do during the few days it takes to complete the remodel. The real issue arises when the remodel doesn’t go as planned. It is common for contractors to get delayed after they start a project. This can leave you hanging for several days while waiting on them to return and finish yours. Make sure to have a backup plan in place for what you will do if everything goes awry.

Trust Our Advice

Before starting the kitchen remodel process, ask for our expert advice at the Kitchen Emporium, serving all Southern California areas, including the San Fernando Valley, San Diego, and San Marcos. Our staff will take the time to answer all of your questions and solve any issues that arise before and during your kitchen remodel. See us today to get the kitchen you deserve.