How to Plan Your Kitchen Renovation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Renovating your kitchen is a major project that can dramatically improve your home’s functionality and increase its value. However, it requires careful planning and consideration to ensure the process goes smoothly and meets your expectations. By understanding the process ahead of time, you can ensure that each step is followed precisely and in the correct order.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your kitchen renovation.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs and Goals

Identify the pain points you are currently facing, such as a lack of cabinet storage, limited countertop space or an inefficient design. Determine the goals and priorities for your kitchen renovation as well. Are you looking to update the style, improve its functionality or both? Do you have materials in mind for your cabinets and countertops? Are you hoping to increase space in your kitchen? Also, establish a reasonable budget for the work you want done. Experts say plan to spend between 5 and 15 percent of your home value on a kitchen renovation.

Step 2: Gather Inspiration and Ideas

Get an idea of what you want your new kitchen to look like by researching the latest design trends and styles. While you don’t have to copy what’s “in,” knowing the latest trends can help you make thoughtful decisions. You can explore kitchen renovation projects online, in magazines, on social media and in portfolios from reputable contractors. Write down the features you love, or create a mood board or Pinterest board to compile ideas in one place.

Step 3: Develop a Design Plan

Work with a designer to create detailed plans for your kitchen. You’ll want to partner with a designer sooner rather than later. A designer will assist you in choosing the ideal layout and flow for your kitchen, as well as help you select the best styles and brand options for your taste and budget AND REVIEW YOUR LAYOUT TO ENSURE WINDOW CENTERS & DOOR PLACEMENT GIVE YOU THE CABINETRY LAYOUT YOU DESIRE.. SO MANY ARCHITECTS ARE NOTORIOUS FOR BAD CABINET DESIGN, PLACE WINDOWS & DOORS WHERE THE CUSTOMER CANT HAVE A BASE SUSAN, OR DOUBLE GARBAGE OR LARGE SINK BASE THEY WANTED. IF WE GET TO THEM IN TIME WE CAN CHANGE THOSE THINGS

Step 4: Hire Professionals

Once you have a plan in place, you can research and interview contractors. Check their references and credentials, view their online portfolios and obtain quotes and proposals. When comparing quotes, make sure they are complete and include all aspects of the project such as:

• Labor
• Materials
• Equipment rentals
• Permit fees (if the contractor is handling permits)
• Any subcontracting fees (for specialized work like electrical or plumbing)

Step 5: Obtain Necessary Permits and Approvals

Determine which permits are required for your renovation. Your contractor may handle this on your behalf. Generally speaking, permits are required any time you make structural changes, major renovations or take on projects that involve moving or changing electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC systems. If you have to obtain the permits on your own, be sure to get approvals from the local authorities and submit your applications on time.

Step 6: Set a Timeline

Establish a realistic timeline for the renovation process. Your design professionals can give you a clearer idea of what to expect in terms of a schedule. On average, kitchen renovations take 10-12 weeks to complete, though it depends on the availability of the contractors and other professionals. Ideally, everyone working on your project should collaborate.

Step 7: Prepare Your Home

Clear out the kitchen and surrounding areas. This includes emptying out cabinets and removing clutter and small appliances from the countertops. Since you likely won’t be able to use your kitchen for several weeks, set up a temporary kitchen that will allow you to cook simple meals. Many people do this in their laundry room, especially if they have a sink. Paper plates and plastic utensils will be your best friend!

Step 8: Renovation Work Begins

Finally—it’s time for demolition! This involves demolishing and removing existing fixtures and materials. Depending on the extent of your renovation, the contractors then do a rough-in of plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems. Then, they can begin the installation of new fixtures, cabinets, countertops and appliances. Prepare for some noise! The good news is that you will finally start to see your new design come to life!

Step 9: Finalize Details and Finishing Touches

Once all the major fixtures are installed, the contractors will finalize the renovation by installing hardware, lighting fixtures and other accessories. They will also touch-up any paint or finishes that need it, and clean and prepare the kitchen for use. It won’t be long before you’re filling the cabinets and serving home cooked meals in your brand new kitchen!

We hope that this step-by-step guide has given you insight into the kitchen renovation process. To schedule a consultation for a kitchen renovation, contact Woodhaven today.