What to Expect in Each Kitchen Remodeling Stage
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Kitchen remodeling often takes four to 12 weeks or more, depending on the size and scope of the project. As you prepare to start kitchen remodeling, it helps to understand each stage. Here's a look at what to expect.
During this stage, you'll also evaluate whether you need an architect. If so, then you'll follow a similar path to finding, interviewing and checking references for that professional, as well.
After several weeks, you'll finalize all your decisions and proceed to having construction drawings prepared to keep at the job site and send to the building department.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
Planning a Kitchen Remodeling Project
Planning is perhaps the most critical stage of any remodeling project, as it involves setting the stage for the type of space you want. During the planning stage you should:- Examine your goals
- Talk about what you want and why
- Decide if you are working with your existing space or adding on, which requires more time and expense, but is the best solution in some cases
- Begin looking at kitchen cabinets, faucets, appliances, and other products
Selecting a Remodeling Contractor
The kitchen contractor will dictate how well the planning comes together--from the cabinet design to the final finishing touches. During this stage, you should:- Interview three to four contractors and solicit bids
- Gather any information the contractors need for preparing their bids, such as the size of kitchen appliances and whether you are removing any walls or ordering specialty products
- Review the bids
- Check the contractors' references
- Hire the contractor and set a timeline for the project
During this stage, you'll also evaluate whether you need an architect. If so, then you'll follow a similar path to finding, interviewing and checking references for that professional, as well.
Kitchen Design and Layout
This stage is more exciting, as you get into the way the kitchen design will look. But behind the scenes, the contractor should be applying for permits and lining up subcontractors to assist with the job. In this stage, you'll:- Work with the contractor and/or architect on the kitchen layout--where the cabinets and appliances will go, whether you will have an island, etc.
- Decide on what type of kitchen cabinet options you want--pull-out drawers, molding, glass doors, etc.
- Plan the size, shape, and configuration of the kitchen island
After several weeks, you'll finalize all your decisions and proceed to having construction drawings prepared to keep at the job site and send to the building department.
Ordering Kitchen Cabinets and Appliances
As you finish your kitchen design and layout, you'll also be ordering all the products to fill the space. You'll order kitchen cabinets, the countertop, appliances, and other products. Cabinets often take four to eight weeks to arrive, while the timing on other products varies from one to eight weeks.The Kitchen Remodeling Begins!
After all this planning, the real work begins. Hopefully, you'll start your kitchen remodeling feeling prepared and happy with all your decisions.About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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