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Kitchen Remodeling FAQ

How much will it cost to remodel my kitchen?

The cost of the project will depend on a variety of factors. The size of your kitchen is one important variable. Another is the complexity of the job. Simpler installations only involving cabinets and countertops will be a lot less expensive than more extensive remodels including flooring, lighting and paint or wallpaper. To find out more about price, the best thing to do is to get into contact with some kitchen remodeling companies. Most of them can actually give you a ballpark price just based on the dimensions of your kitchen and a brief description of what you're looking for. When you're ready to choose a contractor, they'll work with you to add or subtract options to bring the project in line with your budget.

How can I possibly afford kitchen remodeling?

Just like with any major project, a full kitchen remodel can cost a lot of money. And just like any major expenditure, you should only spend what you can afford on kitchen remodeling. If you prefer to pay up front for the cost of the kitchen, you can let the company know what you have saved and they'll work with you to determine what you can get for that price. And if you prefer to finance the job and want to stay within a monthly payment range, you can accomplish that as well. Don't overextend yourself on a kitchen remodel. Home equity loans are an option, and those who are buying a house with the intention of remodeling can sometimes get funds for the work rolled into the mortgage.

Is there anything I can do by myself to save money?

The amount of work you can do depends on your skill level and your knowledge of remodeling. Just about anyone who's physically able can handle the removal of old cabinets, countertops, and flooring to get ready for the new install. Many people also choose to do the painting or wallpaper on their own to cut labor costs. But items like the installation of cabinets and countertops require specialized tools and a specific set of skills for the job to come out right. If you do not have experience in these areas, it is better to leave the work to a qualified professional.

How do I choose the right kitchen cabinets?

The right cabinets for one kitchen may not be right at all for another. Several considerations must be attended to for the homeowner to come out with a functional and aesthetically pleasing final design. First and foremost, you need to identify you needs and understand what style you're looking for as far as cabinets are concerned. Different door designs, wood finishes, materials, and many other factors make this a very personal decision. And the goals you have for the function of the kitchen are of equal consideration.

Cabinets can come in a range of designs with different looks and features, and their financial cost ranges tremendously by brand and model. Most manufacturers basically have stock, semi stock, and custom cabinets for the homeowner to choose from. Stock cabinets are the lowest priced models, and they usually come in a somewhat limited range of sizes, colors, and finishes. Semi custom models are an upgrade allowing for modifications to account for things like irregularities in the layout of your kitchen or ideas to change things up and create more functional space. Likewise, custom cabinets are high end models that cost more but are made to last and manufactured out of only the very best materials.

What kind of countertop surface should I go with?

There are a number of different countertop surfaces available. Today's countertop manufacturers do a great job at making durable products at all price points. Countertops can be made in granite, quartz, solid surface, and laminate. The choice you make for your countertop material will depend on your intended use and your budget.

Granite is a natural stone. Granite countertops are unmatchable in their beauty. Granite countertops are durable and they are resistant to heat, a common element in kitchen cooking areas. You can choose from hundreds of variations in granite which opens up visual design.

Quartz is a granite blend that features a very hard surface with a granite like feel. Quartz countertops do not provide as much color variation as granite and are more expensive, but are extremely low maintenance and durable.

Solid surface countertops are usually acrylic. They are very durable and able to withstand daily use. There are nearly limitless color choices with these countertops. These countertops can scratch but are easy to repair.

Laminate is the most popular of all countertop materials because it is so affordable. It offers thousands of color choices and a number of finishes as well. One downside is that damage is virtually non repairable.

 

How do I choose appliances, paint and flooring to go with my new cabinets and countertops?

The choice of appliances, paint, flooring, and light fixtures for your new kitchen should be made in the context of the whole project and the overall design you're hoping to achieve. One constraint on these choices will obviously be budget. You have to stay within your budget and this will impact the choices you can make. Another factor is the design flow of the kitchen. Color wise, for example, you want to choose appliances, flooring, and paint schemes that set off your cabinets or complement them according to your tastes. Your new kitchen remodeling project should make an impact visually as well as improve functionality for your family.

How long does a kitchen remodeling project take to complete?

The amount of time needed to finish a kitchen remodeling job depends on the complexity and size of the job. Another factor is the delivery schedule of the cabinets, countertops, and appliances and flooring you include in the design. Custom cabinets, for example, will take much longer to arrive than will stock cabinets.

After delivery, an average remodel may take between one to three weeks to finish. But this time line can greatly vary according to the complexity of the project and the manpower dedicated to the job. Expected job completion time from delivery to finish is one of the questions you should ask every contractor you get quotes from on your kitchen remodeling project.

What should I expect during a kitchen remodeling project?

Every job is different, but they all follow the same basic format. Tear out comes first, followed by any electrical work needed. New plumbing is installed if required, the walls are repaired and prepped, and the cabinets are installed. The countertop is measured and a template is created if needed, and the new countertop is fabricated. Stock countertops will simply be cut to size and installed. The cabinet toe tick and trim is installed. Sinks and other final plumbing are installed, the new flooring installed, and any new appliances put into place. The kitchen will be torn up for some time, so homeowners should get to know their local restaurants pretty well during this time period.

The time during which the kitchen is installed can be harrowing, but it is well worth it.