5 Kitchen Renovation Mistakes You Need to Avoid (and How to Get It Right)
Kitchen renovations could be an excellent opportunity to revitalize your home and improve the functioning of one of the most important rooms in your home. However, remodeling a kitchen may be a difficult process, especially if you are not sure where to begin. Below are five frequent kitchen renovation mistakes and how to prevent them. From bad planning to forgetting the finishing touches, we will look at the mistakes of kitchen renovations and offer practical advice to help you avoid them.
1. Failing to plan
Kitchen renovations are exciting projects that can give your home new vitality. However, before you begin, you must plan ahead of time. Failure to plan adequately is one of the most common mistakes people make while upgrading their kitchen. Without appropriate planning, you risk spending too much or overlooking important aspects like electrical or plumbing requirements. To prevent these blunders, create a precise strategy that covers your budget, design preferences, and schedules. Begin by assessing your present kitchen and identifying the areas that need to be improved. Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves in the areas you believe are lacking. Once you have determined which areas require upgrading, it's time to look at different materials and finishes. When choosing materials, keep both form and function in mind. Natural stone countertops, for example, while gorgeous, may need frequent upkeep and attention.
During the designing phase, consider the functional features of your kitchen. Lighting, electrical outlets, and plumbing are examples of these. Consider where you put switches and plugs to ensure you have plenty in convenient places for small appliances and charging gadgets. Dimmer switches for lighting fixtures may also be installed to create a cozy environment for dinner parties or movie evenings. Once you have a solid strategy in place, you can begin the renovation process. Remember that unforeseen obstacles can arise during the remodeling, so staying flexible and open to adjustments is critical. Work with a skilled contractor who can walk you through the renovation process and assist you in overcoming any obstacles that may develop.
2. Overlooking functionality
Designing a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional can seem like a daunting task, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it's possible to create a space that not only looks great but also works well for your lifestyle and needs. While aesthetics are undoubtedly important, it's essential not to overlook functionality when designing your kitchen. First and foremost, consider your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen. Do you love to cook, entertain guests, or have kids and pets? Each of these factors can impact the design of your kitchen. For example, if you love to cook, you'll want to prioritize storage space and countertop areas for meal prep. On the other hand, if you entertain frequently, you'll want to make sure that your kitchen has ample space for guests to gather and socialize.
In addition to considering your lifestyle, it's crucial to think about the flow of your kitchen. The placement of appliances, cabinets, and drawers can make a significant difference in the efficiency and functionality of your space. For example, consider placing your refrigerator and pantry near your prep area for easy access to ingredients while cooking. You may also want to consider placing your dishwasher near your sink for easy cleanup. When it comes to materials and finishes, durability should be a top priority. If you have kids or pets, consider materials that can withstand wear and tear, such as stain-resistant countertops and durable flooring. By prioritizing functionality and incorporating these key elements into your design, you can create a kitchen that not only looks great but also works well for your needs
3. Underestimating storage
Storage space is sometimes ignored or underestimated when it comes to kitchen renovation. Many homeowners prioritize the look and layout of their kitchen while sometimes overlooking the value of storage space. Having enough storage space, on the other hand, is critical for keeping your kitchen organized and functioning. Aside from the apparent necessity for storage space for large things such as pots and pans and small kitchen gadgets such as blenders, homeowners sometimes underestimate the amount of space required for smaller items. This might result in a messy and disorganized kitchen, making meal preparation and cooking stressful.
It is critical to prioritize storage space when designing a kitchen renovation. Consider everything you will need to keep in your kitchen and plan accordingly. If you have a big spice collection, try putting pull-out spice racks surrounding the range for convenient access. On the center island, you may also add under-counter storage for goods like baking sheets and cutting boards. Incorporating multi-functional furniture and storage solutions is another method to maximize storage space in your kitchen. Installing a built-in banquette with concealed storage beneath the bench, for example, or adding floating shelves above the counters for displaying ornamental objects and storing everyday needs are both options. It is best to think about the type of cabinets and storage you want to integrate when planning your kitchen makeover. Custom cabinets may be an excellent method to maximize storage space while also adding a personal touch to your kitchen. You may also go with open shelves, which will give your kitchen a more open and pleasant appearance while still giving plenty of storage space.
4. Forgetting the finishing touches
The final touches are what make a kitchen truly shine when it comes to remodeling. Adding artistic items such as artwork, plants, and ornamental hardware may give your kitchen personality and charm. These seemingly tiny touches may have a huge influence on the overall style of the space. When choosing decorative components for your kitchen, keep the overall color scheme in mind. Choosing items that suit your design preferences and your kitchen's color palette will improve the overall appearance and feel of the space. If you have a neutral color scheme, for example, a bold piece of artwork or a colorful set of dishware may create a focal point and provide visual appeal.
5. Not hiring a professional
When it comes to kitchen renovations, it might be tempting to tackle the project on your own. While this may appear to be the most cost-effective alternative, bear in mind that kitchen renovations are complex undertakings that require a professional touch. Actually, attempting to do a kitchen makeover on your own could end up in expensive blunders that wind up spending more than hiring a professional in the first place. There are various advantages to hiring a professional designer or contractor for your kitchen renovation. They not only have the experience and skills to deal with any issues that may occur throughout the remodeling process, but they can also assist you in finding the best materials and finishes for your design preferences. You can avoid costly errors and guarantee that your remodeling is done on time by working with a professional. When choosing a professional for your kitchen makeover, one of the most crucial factors to consider is their qualifications. Make sure you properly research possible designers or contractors, examining their expertise and certifications. It is also a good idea to check reviews from former clients to get a sense of their professionalism and job quality.
You can guarantee a successful renovation that improves the practicality and aesthetic of your kitchen by avoiding typical mistakes. Remember to prioritize your wants and needs, seek expert guidance when needed, and invest in high-quality materials and appliances. With these suggestions, you can turn your kitchen into the center of the home and enjoy the advantages of a beautiful, and useful space.
Top 5 Must-have Kitchen Features (and Add Extra Style To It)
Updating or upgrading the home has been a common to-do project in recent years for many homeowners. They may be considering updating the bathrooms, closet spaces or windows and doors. However one of the most popular upgrades homeowners go with is a kitchen renovation. The kitchen can be seen as a focal point in any home as it is the common area where everyone gathers. In turn upgrading the kitchen not only needs to account for functionality but it also needs to be appealing. Here are the top 5 kitchen features any kitchen renovation should include:
Ample storage space
Since kitchen cabinets make up the majority of what you see in your kitchen, your choice of cabinet color and design is an important one. However, the components within your cabinets are just as crucial, if not more so. The storage options you choose impact how useful your kitchen is. When you are in the midst of preparing a huge meal, you think less about the appearance of your cabinets and more about the simplicity with which you can get the necessary utensils, spices, pots, and other materials. To choose the best storage components for you, a kitchen renovation specialist will frequently take inventory of all the utensils, plates, small appliances, and pantry goods in your kitchen. Pullouts, rollouts, and swing-outs will help you arrange your items and make them simpler to discover and grasp.
Once the appropriate spacing and functionalities of your cabinets and drawers are optimized, you can start to consider how your cabinets will look. Cabinet refacing is a project that can completely change the look of your kitchen. It can involve changing the door profiles of your cabinets and depending on the material you choose, they can include a textured appearance that can contrast with your other kitchen features. Furthermore, the mullions and frames can also be customized to give your cabinets that added personality that can make them unique from any other kitchen. With different color combinations, frames, and profiles, you have free reign in finding that look and style that suits you.
Durable and appealing countertops
Counters are used for meal preparation and cleanup. Even for the most basic of meals, having an accessible counter area makes kitchen management easier. The more space you have, the cleaner and more organized your kitchen may be, as well as how easy it is to maintain cleanliness. Kitchen counters make it easy to keep track of ingredients and dishes when preparing large meals. Kitchen utensils and equipment are useless if you don't have a place to keep them. Counter space also frees up potential space on kitchen tables, allowing for additional guests and keeping all meal preparation in one location.
Countertops are ineffective if they are not durable or robust. Many kitchen accidents can have an impact on the appearance or functionality of your countertop. Surface distortion, warping, or cracking can result from burns and spills. If your counter is porous, germs and mold can grow and cause health problems. Counters that are simple to clean, resistant to stains and burns, and resistant to inadvertent chopping or knife damage will be long-lasting and practical additions to your home.
Along with the countertops durability and functionality, the aesthetic may also be important. The color of your kitchen countertop is usually one of the first things that people notice. The counter is one of those features that is always on show, and whether or not it complements the overall design of your kitchen it will be noticed. Countertops come in different materials and colors that can add style to your kitchen. The kitchen should be a friendly space where you like spending time. As a result, the general appearance of your counter is an important consideration.
Added function and aesthetic with an island
Perhaps no design feature in recent memory has had a greater impact on kitchen design than the island. It is difficult to ignore the value of a kitchen island. It provides more countertop space and storage, as well as a place for conversation, schoolwork, and meals. It can house a stove, a dishwasher, or a prep sink, and it frequently serves as the key contact point that completes an efficient work space for when your making any size meals. The kitchen island is a must-have kitchen feature for the added functionality that it bring to any kitchen. The only requirement to have one is you do need the appropriate amount of space. As mentioned in regards to countertops and storage space, your kitchen island can also be customized to match the look of your other kitchen features by customizing the counter and cabinets. An island that compliments or contrasts your kitchen's aesthetics can further complete your kitchen's overall look and feel.
Highlight kitchen features with appropriate lighting
Proper lighting is essential in every space of your home. This is especially true in the kitchen. When it comes to decorating your home, the importance of proper lighting in a kitchen should not be overlooked. In reality, careful thought should be given not only to the sort of lighting provided, but also to where it is positioned. The selection of kitchen lighting is critical for various reasons. To begin, it is critical to have a well-lit work environment that increases visibility and assures your safety while cooking. Counters and other surfaces should be well-lit so that food preparation is simple and efficient. If you have enough light in this area, you may be sure of the cleanliness of your kitchen. You will be able to see dirt and debris in the countertops, gaps, and crevices. Here are some of the options in regards to kitchen lights:
General lighting: This is the most extensive category for your kitchen and dining area. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and recessed lights are examples of general alternatives. They are typically hung over a kitchen island, dining room table, or in the center of the room as the focal point of your design. These focal pieces illuminate the entire space.
Accent lighting: Accent lights are ornamental items that are utilized for aesthetic appeal rather than brightness. They may make design statements or focal points. They can be mounted in cabinets, over shelves, or added to existing decorations and are also known as display lighting.
Under cabinet lighting: Lighting behind cabinets is becoming more popular among contractors and homeowners. This task lighting is ideal for activities that take place on counters. These enhancements can offer an appealing, aesthetic appearance while yet keeping a mild, beneficial light. When deciding on the type of task lighting to utilize, the individual design of the kitchen cabinets should be taken into account.
Complete the look with a backsplash
The significance of a backsplash varies depending on the homeowner. A backsplash is simply a countertop extension. It might be as close to the wall as a few inches or as far as the ceiling. The goal of any backsplash is to protect your walls from water, oil, and other debris, especially around stoves and sinks. Furthermore, backsplashes provide distinct colors and design patterns to adapt a kitchen to your personal style. Backsplashes can really complete the look and style of your kitchen. Some popular trends include neutral colors such as white and gray. However, natural features have been more popular in recent years, which means that blues, greens, and natural textures are making a comeback in kitchen design. A tiled backsplash is a good way to combine some of these trending colors and patterns without making your kitchen look too trendy. Full-height backsplashes that extend past the upper cabinets to the ceiling are another trendy style. This gives the entire room a completed, cohesive appearance. Increasing the height of your kitchen backsplash might make the entire area appear larger than it is.
The kitchen is a prime gathering space in most homes. Having a kitchen that combines functionality and style can make it easier to cook meals while also being a space that is appealing to be in. When renovating your kitchen, it is recommended to look at the storage space, your work area, and lighting. Combining these features with your own personal style, you could end with your dream kitchen area.
The Ultimate Kitchen Remodel Checklist
When it comes to home remodelling, one of the options that come to homeowners' minds is kitchen renovation. In addition to improving the functionality and aesthetics of the kitchen, kitchen renovation also increases the value of the building. Given the above, renovating your kitchen is considered a worthwhile investment that yields a higher ROI.
If you are considering kitchen renovation as your preferred home remodelling option, here is the ultimate kitchen remodel checklist to let you know what to prioritise and what tasks are involved in family remodelling:
1. Upgrading Older Appliances
Leaving older appliances in your kitchen will not only make your kitchen look outdated, but will also prevent your kitchen from being as energy efficient as modern appliances. The remodelling will not have much impact if the kitchen is full of outdated appliances.
To determine the appliances that need replacement, consider their age, performance and energy consumption. Replacing them with modern appliances will benefit your kitchen tremendously with lower maintenance costs and utility bills.
2. Improving Air Quality
The air quality in the kitchen unavoidably worsens when cooking due to fumes, smoke and steam, generated by the food and heat. As a result, it will be a good idea to include improving the air quality in the kitchen renovation checklist. Installing a high-quality hood to remove fumes, steam and smoke from the kitchen's air is crucial to improving the air quality For instance, you can consider installing a convertible ductless range hood.
3. Increasing Storage Cabinets
One of the best ways to make the kitchen clutter-free is by adding adequate storage cabinets. It is common for most homeowners to run out of cabinet space for your utensils, glasses and cookware, so adding storage cabinets on the priority list for the kitchen is a nice idea. You may add more cabinets, drawers, shelving, and pantry spaces. If you run out of floor space, wall shelves for glasses and other items is something you may want to consider. There are diverse ways to create more storage space and make the kitchen suitable for you.
4. Reorganising Counter Space
Nobody likes a cluttered kitchen. Given this, you should itemise what you need to change during the kitchen renovation. Items, such as coffee pots, toaster ovens, blenders, and other appliances can take up the counter space faster than you can imagine. To minimise the problem, replace bulky appliances with slimmer ones or store the products in your cabinets to create more counter space you can work on without compromising cooking quality. There will be more space when you start replacing bulky appliances.
Takeaway
The above are the kitchen renovation items that should make the ultimate kitchen remodel checklist when you are thinking about renovating your kitchen.
5 Things You Should Know Before A Kitchen Renovation
When done properly, a kitchen renovation can add aesthetic appeal, value, and functionality to your home. However, a kitchen renovation project is not simple and does require proper planning and preparation before you begin. Before embarking on a kitchen renovation, there are some important things you need to consider.
Here, we will highlight 5 important items that can help you to get ready for your kitchen renovation.
1. A Proper Budget is Important
Kitchen renovations can vary in costs, from modest to uber expensive, it all depends on what is being completed and the types of finishes chosen. Installing new countertops, cabinets, flooring, fixtures, hardware and appliances can easily add up, and this is only the visible components of your kitchen, the electrical and plumbing systems may also require some updates. You don’t have to break the bank to make your kitchen look great, you just need to do everything according to your budget. As you start planning your kitchen renovation, keep your budget in mind.
2. Know what you want to change or retain
As you try to embark on the kitchen renovation, it is crucial to know what you want to change or keep as is in your kitchen. In general, keeping things like your cabinets and just having them painted will help save on the costs and the overall work needed. Consider what areas of your kitchen are not as functional as you would like and what needs to be updated to correct the issue. Also, consider the design and style of your new kitchen, and what current items will fit in and what needs to be replaced.
3. Hire a pro kitchen renovation contractor
A full kitchen renovation is not just about changing out a few fixtures and updating the paint, even though these will help update your kitchen, chances are your renovation will be a bit more intricate than this and will likely involve altering the layout and replacing major components of your kitchen. As a result of this, it is not something we recommend you take on yourself. With a professional kitchen renovation company on your side, you can tap into their expertise when it comes to planning and executing your renovation.
4. Involve everyone in your home
Unless you live alone, it is a good idea to involve everyone in your home in the renovation. Make sure you get input from every member of your household before deciding how and when you want to renovate your kitchen.
With this, you can understand the needs, wants, and design styles of everyone that will be using the space. Although your kitchen renovation will not be able to accommodate everyone’s requests, you will have a good idea of the main needs and wants and adjust accordingly.
5. Plan how you will prepare your home for the renovation
During the time your kitchen is being renovated, you will not be able to use your kitchen. Given this, you need to prepare for this inconvenience. This may involve creating a temporary kitchen area where you can keep food items and prepare your meals or come up with some alternative solution.
It is definitely exciting to think about your new dream kitchen post renovations, but before you get to the finished product, there is potential for issues, delays, stress and new decisions to be made. Proper planning will help you be prepared for anything that comes your way during the renovation.
5 Steps To A New Kitchen Renovation
At first glance, it may seem pretty simple to set up a new kitchen layout. But, as you start planning for your kitchen renovation, you may come to realize that it is more difficult than it seems to ensure you have the perfect flow that blends beauty and functionality. A renovation is the best way to bring your personal touch to your kitchen, but it can seem pretty overwhelming when you first get started. To guide you along the renovation process and help you get the kitchen of your dreams, our team has put together five steps to a new kitchen renovation.
1. Create a plan for the layout
Visualizing all the key parts of your new kitchen is what helps you create a project plan that is feasible and sustainable. Do you want to have custom cabinets with secret drawers?Do you like the look and durability of granite countertops? All the details of your kitchen renovation must be ironed out in the layout to help you create an outcome that you will be satisfied with in the long-term.
2. Take measurements
The next thing you should do is take measurements for your new layout. If you are moving things around, creating space, or making any structural changes to your kitchen, you need to be sure of the measurements that those changes will require to be fully functional. If you are not comfortable taking the necessary measurements, you can hire a kitchen renovation contractor to do the consultation and measurements.
3. Make your selection of appliances
With your layout for the kitchen renovation set, you already have an idea of what appliances you will need for your kitchen, but with a wide range of options coming in at various price points, you should plan out what brands and styles you are interested in installing to bring your dream kitchen to life. Research to find the best options for your desired appliances.
4. Decide on a budget
When your layout and kitchen renovation plan is ready, you can use the details to draft an applicable budget. If you aren’t sure about the costs for certain installations and items, check online for the average market price and add that to your budget. The first budget doesn’t have to be exact, it just serves to help you know the range of your total expense for the kitchen renovation.
5. Hire the right professionals
When all is said and done, if you don’t have the right team working with you, it can throw a wrench into all your plans. Hire professional kitchen renovation specialists that have the experience to bring your vision to life.
From design to installation and maintenance, our experts at KBC Solutions have you covered on everything you need for a new kitchen renovation. With us on your side, your dream kitchen is about to become reality!
5 Tips for Where to Start When Renovating A Bathroom
Bathrooms are among the top most used parts of any home, and that’s why they are one of the most commonly renovated areas as well. As exciting as it is, you need to be ready for all the stress and costs that comes with a bathroom renovation. It will also require many decisions to be made and at times be confusing as you deliberate between materials, styles and colours. Well, we are here to help! Ready to transform your bathroom into a newer space with a better ambiance.
Here are five tips for where to start when renovating a bathroom!
1. Start with a Plan
Planning out your bathroom renovation is an important first step. This is where you decide if any elements of your existing bathroom will be reused as well as design the layout and colour scheme you are looking forward to when the renovations are complete. This is also a good time to source materials and professionals to help with the parts of the job you are not comfortable with, i.e. if new electrical is needed.
2. Out with the old, fixtures that is
If you are planning a complete bathroom renovation, say goodbye to your old fixtures. This includes, toilet, sink, faucets and lighting. New fixtures will help bring your new space together, and will help accentuate the new style.
3. In with the new, vanity
Your bathroom vanity is the focal point of your bathroom. After all, it will be one of the most commonly used spaces in the bathroom. From washing hands to getting ready in the morning, the vanity is your spot. A new vanity will also pull your entire room together, so make sure the style and colour match the tiles and lighting you have chosen for your space.
4. Time to Tile
Tiles are an important part of any bathroom as they are found in a variety of places. On the floor, in the shower, behind the vanity, and even full walls if you want. If you are not comfortable installing tile, this may be an area that you get professional help, as out of line tiles become an eye sore quickly. If you are DIY-ing the process, be sure to mark out the lines of the tiles so you don’t end up with irregularly placed tiles. Use your tiling material to set the tiles and remember to grout the tiles to secure them in place.
5. Final Installations
Bring in the vanity, sink, faucet, mirror, cabinets, and other essentials, in that order. Once everything is in place and working well, you can bring in the toilet and install it. Test everything at least once to be sure that your plumbing is working well and everything is sitting right.
With these tips, you can have your bathroom looking brand new in no time at all! Bathroom renovations leave you feeling great and your house looking even better!
How Do You Save On A Bathroom Remodel?
A well-accomplished bathroom remodel can give your home a facelift and increase its value. However, the cost of a bathroom remodel can sometimes be a big challenge for a homeowner. The good news is that there are certain steps you can take to save money on a bathroom remodel.
1. Prioritize needs over wants
Once you have started planning for your bathroom remodel, you should differentiate between the things you need and those you want. Your needs will be based on the people using the bathroom as well as the fixtures that can make the room more functional.
2. Don’t change the layout and size of your bathroom
Rearranging, changing, or enlarging the size and layout of your bathroom will cost you lots of money. This is because it will require you to move the plumbing pipes, remake the cabinet, redo the electricity and lots more. So it will contribute significantly to the overall cost of your bathroom remodel.
3. Shop wisely
Bathroom components come in different sizes, designs and qualities. Nevertheless, how and where you shop for these items can determine how much you will spend on them. You will need to shop wisely for every material you need for your bathroom remodel.
4. Go for refinishing instead of replacement
Although replacing your existing bathroom fixtures with newer ones can give your bathroom a facelift, it will cost you lots of money. The cost is not just about getting new bathroom components, but you may also need to demolish and reconstruct certain things. Fortunately, you don’t need to replace all bathroom components, especially the ones in good condition.
You can improve the overall appearance of your bathroom components by just refinishing them without costing you an arm and a leg.
5. Choose prefabricated bathtub or shower
If you have to replace your bathtub or shower, you should choose a prefabricated one. Custom showers and bathtubs are known to be costly. Hence, they are not cost-effective options if you want to save money on a bathroom remodel. Prefabricated ones, on the other hand, are more affordable and easier to install.
What should I include in my kitchen renovation?
When it comes to home renovations, upgrading a kitchen is arguably one of the most common renovations home owners complete. This is probably because the kitchen is the hub of most homes, where friends and family gather, meals are made and enjoyed, and time is spent. So, if you are planning out a kitchen renovation of your own, we understand wanting to ensure you get the kitchen of your dreams when the project is completed.
To help you plan out your kitchen renovations we have outlined some the key items to consider with your kitchen renovation project.
1. New Countertops
Installing new countertops alone has the ability to change to look and feel of your kitchen. Choosing the right countertop material for your kitchen renovation will affect your kitchen’s aesthetics as well as functionality. Countertops come in a wide variety of materials, such as granite, marble, Caesarstone, tiles, and wood butcher block. All of these materials have a different visual appeal, usage capabilities, pricing and durability. As a result, consider the pros and cons concerning your preference and choose the right countertop that will meet your design and usage needs.
2. New Appliances
Before your kitchen renovations gets underway, think about purchasing new appliances for your kitchen. This will help with ensuring the kitchen layout and space allotted works well. Your appliances can also be the focal point of your kitchen, so knowing exactly which appliances you will be utilizing allows for planning of hardware and colours. If your old appliances are still in good working condition, we still suggest looking at purchasing newer, energy efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption.
3. Custom Lighting
An important item to consider for your kitchen renovation, is custom light fixtures. New lighting fixtures will provide different lighting options as well as update your kitchen’s ambiance. Try utilizing different lighting features to help illuminate different areas of your kitchen. Having a combination of recessed lighting, pendent lighting and under cabinet LEDs are all very popular right now.
4. Flooring
Your kitchen is arguably one of the busiest areas of your home and the kitchen flooring undoubtedly takes significant wear and tear from all the foot traffic that passes through. As a result, installing new tiles in your kitchen will not only increase its appeal, but will add incremental value to your kitchen renovation. There are several flooring options available to ensure your design preferences and budget are both met.
5. Painting
Repainting is a must for any renovation project, but in a kitchen renovation, your selected colour can help make the space feel more welcoming and larger. A fresh coat of paint or two is not all that expensive but has a large impact on your project.
When planning out your kitchen renovation, make sure to consider your family’s needs and must haves. Also, try taking a step back and think about what bothers you about your current kitchen. Perhaps a pot filler above your stove would come in handy, or a complete layout transformation is needed to make the space more useful. You have the ability to fix any issues and get the kitchen of your dreams with your renovation project.
What To Expect When You Renovate Your Kitchen?
If you are planning your first ever kitchen renovation, you are probably wondering what to expect. The truth is even if this isn’t your first kitchen renovation, every renovation project is slightly different, and there will always be surprises along the way. But, you can reduce the potential for surprises by knowing what basics to expect. This will help you handle the impending challenges better and prepare to embrace the uncertainties ahead.
Below we discuss what to expect when taking on one of the most popular home renovation projects undertake: kitchen renovations.
Noise
Just like with any other renovation project, you can expect your kitchen renovations to be a quite noisy endeavour. From the initial removal of your existing kitchen right up to the finishing touches, you should expect it to be noisy. There will be banging hammers, revving saws, materials being dropped, doors opening and closing, contractors talking and much more potential day interrupting sounds coming from the renovation areas. If you work from home, are uncomfortable with loud noises or have young children, it is a good idea to plan to be away during the days or even find a friend or family member’s home to stay at during all or a portion of the renovation.
Dust
Even though there may be measures to contain the dust while kitchen renovations are in progress such as hanging drop sheets around the kitchen entry ways, dust will likely still accumulate in areas away from the construction site. Wall demolition, cabinets dismantling and tile removal will all create small particles which can get into air ducts and move around your home. Ensure you remove everything you can from the kitchen area prior to the commencement of the renovations so they don’t get damaged or covered in a thick layer of dust and dirt.
Delays and Unexpected Costs
Like every other project, kitchen renovations are hardly ever hitch-free. For one reason or the other, the unexpected will always happen. Delays occur, material may be delayed, contractors may encounter additional challenges and logistics may fall through. Preparing for the unforeseen during your kitchen renovation will put you in a better position to be patient and tolerant, especially when this issue could have been prevented. You don’t know, what you don’t know and this is always true during a renovation. Removing walls, floors, cabinetry, ceilings and so on can uncover an issue that wasn’t expected. This is why it is always suggested to have a reserve fund to help resolve any of these uncovered unexpected issues.
Time
This really shouldn’t be a surprise, a renovation such as a full kitchen upgrade takes time, we are talking months in most cases. 30-minute renovation TV shows make it feel like a kitchen renovation is completed in days, well it’s not! Kitchen renovations take ample time, while it’s possible to repaint and replace kitchen hardware in hours or a day, a meaningful kitchen renovation project will take much longer.
Celebrate
Once your kitchen renovations are all done, it’s time to celebrate and show off your dream kitchen. You have probably gone through a rollercoaster of emotions since the start of your project, well it’s time to end the ride on a high note.
How do you plan a bathroom renovation?
Are you thinking about renovating your bathroom and want to do it the right way? Are you searching for tips to plan a successful bathroom renovation? Do you want to renovate and remodel your bathroom without any hassle? Well look no further! Below are the best tips and tricks to a successful bathroom renovation.
Successful bathroom renovation starts with adequate and foolproof planning. Here are some ways to plan a bathroom renovation:
1. Hire a Professional Construction Contractor
If you want to plan and renovate your bathroom without any issues, work with an experienced and licensed home improvement contractor. A bathroom renovation involves several intricacies, which are best understood by construction companies. The contractor will listen to your needs, offer you realistic designs, and provide you with a workable budget. Compliance with essential building codes will also be ensured by the contractor.
2. Utilize Pre-existing Fixtures
Installing new fixtures can be costly and time consuming. Consider using your pre-existing fixtures such as your faucet, shower head and lights to be more budget friendly. Alternatively, to cut down on costs even more, consider leaving existing fixtures in the same place within your bathroom. An experienced bathroom renovation expert can design different layouts that will factor in your existing fixtures, cutting down on additional labour costs.
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3. Prioritize Waterproof Flooring
When it comes to materials to use in your bathroom, it is important to consider the requirements of the space itself. Keep in mind that bathrooms tend to have excessive moisture, humidity and water which is why it is best to choose waterproof flooring. You can choose from different waterproof flooring materials, such as stone, tile, and vinyl. However, try to steer clear of hardwood floors as they may be affected by the changing humidity levels in the bathroom.
4. Add Luxury Items
If you are looking to invest in your home, consider using high-end materials and luxury items. Luxury items will improve the overall aesthetic and add a dramatic improvement to the bathroom. You can also mix and match by using a combination of luxury items and affordable materials. For instance, you can install a marble wall to transform your bathroom space while going with affordable vinyl floors.
5. Convert Your Bathtub into a Shower
If you have a bathtub in your bathroom, you can think about converting it to a shower. Your bathroom space will maintain its elegance, luxury, and functionality while lowering labour costs of installing a new shower and additional plumbing fixtures. It’s an affordable and versatile way to renovate your bathroom.
Takeaway
The tips above are ways to plan a bathroom renovation. Keep in mind that planning a renovation with an experienced bathroom renovation contractor will make the project stress-free and successful. Contact us for help with your bathroom renovation and we promise mind-blowing results from start to finish!