What you need to know when remodeling your kitchen.

Once you actually decide to remodel your kitchen, there are still many decisions lying ahead. Keep in mind that decisions regarding design and materials should be made before contacting a general contractor. This will allow them to give you an accurate estimate on your project.

Cabinets

First, you should decide the material of the cabinets. The texture of the cabinets will change depending on the material. Below are some options, but if your budget allows you can buy natural wood such as cedar, pine, red, or white wood. The previously listed are also more resistant to water and easier to work with in the future. By this we are referring to refacing cabinets for future renovations you may want.

In order to order your cabinets, you must measure the space and buy cabinets according to your design. Be sure to account for the space of appliances such as dishwasher, microwave, oven, and refrigerator.

Hardware is completely dependent on your design and color palate for your project. You will need to acquire different hardware depending on if the cabinet pulls out or just opens as can be seen in the third image. However if you buy the hardware style in the first and second image, then the hardware could be installed with different direction as can be seen in the second image.

Cabinets are the most essential part of kitchen storage. There are many types of cabinets and drawers depending on what it is you want to store in them.

If you have the space, definitely consider adding a kitchen island. First, it will give you more cooking space. Second, you can also consider adding seating. Lastly, space! You can even have cabinets behind the seating area for those kitchen items that you may not use often.

If you want to place your appliances here such as microwave, dishwasher, or stove. Indicate that to your contractor, so that they may install the electrical, plumbing, and gas services needed.

Countertops

There are so many materials to choose from when it comes to buying your countertops: concrete, quartz, granite, marble, wood, laminate, and so on.

Even though the cost of granite is greater, it is worth it because it is long lasting with less maintenance than laminate which is cheaper but will need to be replaced sooner because it is more easily damaged and may have scratches and stains.

The different materials also vary in quality, heat resistance, and the resistance to stains and scratches.

When deciding on the countertops also consider if it will boost the value of your home in case you are looking to sell in the future.

Let your supplier know the dimensions of the countertop and specific details such as where the hole needs to be placed for the sink or stove.

Countertop installation can be done in just one day. What can be more time consuming is the cabinet installation that precedes the countertops.

Backsplash

Let’s face it! A kitchen can get messy in a matter minutes. It is recommended that you install backsplash to prevent from getting splashes on walls with paint. Backsplash materials: ceramic, glass, stone, and wood. Factors to take into account are style, maintenance, and cost.

Appliances

Your general contractor can do it all. However, keep in mind that it will be more expensive if you decide to place your appliances in different areas because plumbing and electrical services will have to be moved.

Flooring

There are many reasons to change the flooring. You may just want a new look. It may be very worn out. Or the new layout of your kitchen may require repairs.

Lighting

There are multiple types of lighting you need in your kitchen: ambient, task, and accent.

Ambient lighting is considered the main source of light for your kitchen. An example of this is recessed lighting. Be sure that your design for the ambient lighting casts light evenly into your kitchen to avoid dark areas.

Task lighting is for areas that you want specifically lit such as the counter under your cabinets.

Accent lighting is just an extra detail that most do to add their own personal touch.

Pantry

Whether you have a few cabinets for the pantry or a walk-in pantry, the focus of a pantry lies in its storage. If you are looking to expand or just renovate, it is important to let your contractor know what designs you have in mind.

Paint

Paint is completely dependent on personal style. You may also want to consider other elements when choosing the color: cabinet color, backsplash, countertop, and even appliances.

Shelves

Even though shelves may not provide a lot of storage, they can be used to place decorative pieces. Currently, floating shelves are very trendy.

Wall Removal

Do you feel trapped in your kitchen? Knock down a wall. This will make your home look instantly more spacious. It is important to note, however, that although any wall can be removed some may be more expensive because the contractor may have to move plumbing and elctrical services that pass through that wall.