Recently I provided a quote for a homeowner who was considering not only a kitchen remodel but adding an addition to their existing kitchen. The homeowner was surprised at how the costs can add up to get what you want and the time frame that you have to evacuate the kitchen. I want to use this post to provide some ideas that can save you money and time in a kitchen remodeling process. If I were to give you just one piece of advice it would be to invest ample time in the planning and research phase. Take time to look around, visit showrooms, flip through magazines and talk to a professional because change orders after the start of the project are what cause budget busts and extended completion dates. Don’t accept an estimate that is not itemized outlining the details of the specific work and quality of materials so that you are comparing apples to apples.
Cabinets typically make up close to 30% of kitchen remodeling costs according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). If you want to save money then cabinets is one place you’ll find low hanging fruit. Custom cabinetry is expensive and semi-custom or stock units offer big saving while still providing the value and style you want. If your existing cabinets are still in good shape you can save even more by refinishing and painting or just replacing or refacing the doors and upgrading the hardware.
The term “work triangle” has been around for years and refers to the imaginary triangle that can be drawn between the stove, refrigerator, and sink. The legs of the work triangle should total 26 feet or less and no single leg shorter than 4 feet or longer than 9 feet. It is not always possible to adhere to the standards but is a good rule of thumb. When remodeling it is costly to move preexisting water and electrical lines so keep this in mind when planning. It is good to position the sink between the other two appliances since it is the most frequently utilized.
Make sure you plan for adequate “landing space” on either side of the range and sink. Try to allow for as much counter space as possible for loading and unloading around the sink, cook top and next to the refrigerator. Trust me, next Thanksgiving the cooks in your house will be grateful for the extra space. If you are on a really tight budget you can save money on counter tops if you are willing to pass on the high-priced natural stone for a high quality laminate.
If you plan ahead for your lighting needs you can upgrade your lighting at the same time you’re doing the electrical rather than bring the electrician back later. Make sure you consider task lighting, general lighting and accent lighting such as under the cabinets. Electrical outlets and switch positions can also be changed to suit your needs.
Flooring is an important aspect to consider for the kitchen since you spend a lot of time on your feet in that area. Hard tile is often chosen because of its durability but tends to be cold and unforgiving on joints as you age or stand for extended periods of time. Hardwood floors are warm and comfortable to stand on but not generally as durable as hard tile floors. Hardwoods can be refinished several times so that does add to the durability. Laminate floors have become popular and are durable as well.
If you decide to update or upgrade your kitchen or enlarge and open up the space you have today then these tips can potentially save you some time and money.
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