Remodeling a kitchen can be an overwhelming undertaking. There are different processes happening at once, numerous people to coordinate, and so many plans that have to be made.
It is such a large process that arguably the most important and difficult step is figuring out where to start.
If you are ready to remodel your kitchen but don’t know where to start, then here are the steps that you need to follow to be well on your way.
Planning and Design
First step that one must take in their kitchen remodeling journey it’s put together a solid plan. Go through your kitchen and visualize exactly what you want it to look like. Take measurements of your kitchen space so that you know what dimensions you are working with.
From there you need to create an itemized list of everything you want in your remodeled kitchen. This can cover things from appliances to paint flooring. Any changes that you want in your kitchen should be listed.
Now that you have your list of changes and renovations put together, you need to put together a budget for your remodel.
Do your research, and find prices for items such as your stove, sync, and refrigerator.
You should do the same for any necessary building materials, as well as potential labor costs. It is also important that you pay for any permits that you may need to begin the remodel.
Setting Your Budget
The most important tool you have at your disposal during your kitchen remodel is your budget. Your budget can help you keep the scope of your remodel in perspective.
Create your budget you must first break down the cost categories of your remodel. This means assessing how much things like plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, and permits.
If you want to save money then you can consider such cost-cutting measures as choosing mid-range appliances that perform well but are not overly expensive. You can also choose the do-it-yourself route for tasks such as painting your kitchen. The goal is to manage your budget and not overspend.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Successfully remodeling your kitchen means that you must find the right contractor to work with. You need to have a contractor whom you can establish a good working relationship.
The best way to find the right contractor is to do your research and ask for referrals from friends and family members who have had good experiences.
Be sure to check the credentials of any contractor that you consider and to look at their previous work. When you are ready to reach out you will discuss your project in detail and then negotiate a contract.
This phase requires a significant amount of open communication. A good contractor to ensure that your kitchen is how you want it while keeping you within budget.
The Hierarchical Process of Remodeling
In order to ensure that your kitchen remodel goes smoothly, a specific order of operations needs to be followed.
This order of operations typically starts with demolition, removing old fixtures, and preparing the space. This must occur before any new installations are brought in.
From there work on structural changes such as plumbing and electrical systems must begin.
Finally, new hardware such as cabinetry, appliances, and countertops are to be installed. By following this order you will ensure that no work needs to be redone and that your projected timeline for the project to be completed is stuck to.
Demolition and Removal
When remodeling your kitchen, the saying “Out with the old and in with the new” is never more true. The important part of that phrase is that the old must first go out, and that is exactly what happens during the demolition and removal stage.
Once necessary demolition has been done all debris must be disposed of responsibly. Recycling any debris may save you some disposal costs in addition to being environmentally friendly.
Plumbing and Electrical Comes First
It does not matter how nice your remodeled kitchen looks if there is no electricity to power it or water to cook with. For this reason, plumbing and electrical work must come before any appliances or cosmetic work.
Any outdated systems that are still in place need to be replaced. Any old electrical work that is showing its age should also be replaced.
Framing and Structural Work
Your kitchen’s structural integrity is critical. Performing framing and structural work early on in the remodeling process ensures that there are “good bones” to hang your kitchen’s drywall, cabinetry, and cosmetic work on.
The placement of windows and doors goes hand in hand with structural changes. Larger windows and doors can help open up the kitchen space and encourage airflow, which can help with temperature control. This stage also entails insulation and drywall installation.
Installation of HVAC Systems
Adjustments to your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems are vital to the success of your kitchen remodel. You do not want the kitchen to become a potential heat trap, after all.
Installing HVAC systems early on will enable it to integrate more seamlessly with the structural, electrical, and plumbing changes.
Flooring Installation
The remaining bit of foundational work is flooring installation. You should choose flooring materials that can stand up to heavy foot traffic, especially during the remainder of the remodel. Doing this before taking on cabinets or countertops will make finishing the remodel easier.
Cosmetic Installations
Now that the major structural elements have been taken care of, you can focus on the cosmetic side of your remodel. This means that you can choose and install your cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, appliances, lighting, and decorative finishes.
You can now carry out the visual side of your initial remodeling plan. Then, when you install fixtures such as your cabinetry and your countertops that you take into consideration the structural work that has been done on your kitchen.
Doing so will ensure that these fixtures fit perfectly, as well as matching with your desired aesthetic. When this is finished, your kitchen will be ready or any necessary inspections.
Conclusion
As you see, the planning stage of your kitchen remodel is the initial domino that needs to be knocked over in order for the rest of the steps to fall into place.
Sticking to your plan is important as it will help you stay organized, but you should always be prepared for possible changes that may need to happen. THanks for visiting Structura Remodeling, your go to source for kitchen remodeling Los Angeles.
Sources
- The Spruce. (n.d.). Steps to a kitchen remodel. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/steps-to-a-kitchen-remodel-1822229
- Home Depot. (n.d.). How to do a full kitchen remodel. Retrieved from https://www.homedepot.com/c/ai/how-to-do-a-full-kitchen-remodel/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901e8053efe
- Angi. (n.d.). Step-by-step guide to remodel a kitchen. Retrieved from https://www.angi.com/articles/step-by-step-guide-to-remodel-kitchen.htm
