Kitchen Remodeling FAQ

There is no exact timeframe for the completion of a kitchen renovation as several factors play a role in determining how long the project will take.

From the moment you decide on materials, you should plan for the completion date to be several weeks in the future. This is especially true if you are installing custom cabinets as they usually require about eight to ten weeks to build. The extent of the renovation, as well as the availability of the materials you choose and the current workload of your contractor, will all play a role in how long the project will require for completion.

Once all the materials are ready, and demolition is done, the installation process can usually be completed in a few weeks.

The best way to start planning your renovation is to look for design inspiration in magazines or online to help you form a clear picture of the look and style you want. Coming into the process with no ideas will only make the process take longer. Once you have narrowed down your options, you should schedule a consultation where you’ll discuss your ideas with a professional. Before any work can begin, you’ll need to clear out the area and remove any personal belongings so it’s ready on the day the work crew arrives.

There are many stages to the remodeling process, each just as important as the last. Our team will be with you through every single step, keeping you in the loop on the progress we make every day.

The basic stages of your renovation will look something like this:

• Demolition — We’ll start by getting rid of all the things that won’t be in your new space. This includes removing old cabinetry, walls, sinks, and appliances.
• Plumbing — If we need to, we will replace the old plumbing in your kitchen, ensuring it’s ready to handle all the new features.
• Electrical — We’ll update all electrical components and replace any old lighting fixtures you no longer want.
• Drywall — Our professional team will install new drywall.
• Paint — We’ll paint the new drywall and existing walls the exact color of your choice.
• Flooring — We’ll add all the new flooring and baseboards.
• Cabinetry — All new cabinetry will be delivered and installed.
• Countertops — The countertops will be installed on top of the new cabinetry.
• Backsplash — If you have chosen to add a backsplash, we will install it under the cabinets and around your sink and stove.
• Appliances — Lastly, all the new appliances will be installed, and any final hardware will be added to cabinetry.

There are several options available to help you finance your kitchen remodel. Perhaps the most popular method is a home equity loan or line of credit. These can be used if you have built up equity in your home and are often a popular choice due to the lower interest rates available because they are secured loans.

Other financing options include personal loans or low- to no-interest credit cards. We recommend thoroughly researching each option to determine which is best for you and your financial situation.

While there is no doubt remodeling your kitchen will improve the value of your home, there is some debate on just how much value it will add. Improving your home in any way will likely add value, but because the kitchen is such a focal point of your home, it’s usually the place to get the most bang for your buck. Even though a kitchen renovation will improve your home value, you shouldn’t expect to make back every penny you spend.

While we understand you are likely on a budget when renovating your kitchen, we don’t suggest cutting corners too drastically. Doing so can result in disappointment with the finished project because you didn’t choose to use the best quality products. You truly do get what you pay for, so the cheaper the price, the lower the quality. The best way to save on your renovation is to postpone parts of the project instead of cutting quality. Our suggestion is to invest your money in the best quality products, even if that means limiting the number of products you buy.

The cost of a kitchen renovation will vary significantly depending on how extensive the project is and the design materials, appliances, and hardware you choose. Most kitchen remodels average about $25,000 or about $150 per square foot. Be sure to work with a contractor who gives you a detailed estimate, so you know exactly what you’ll be paying for your project.

Painting is often the more affordable option compared to the cost of refacing cabinets. However, painting may not produce the results you want. Though painting can cover up some imperfections, it can’t improve the quality of the cabinets or remove dents or damage. Refacing your cabinets will completely replace all the front-facing parts of the cabinetry, which can significantly improve them and give them a newer appearance.

While it is cheaper to reface cabinets instead of replacing them, the savings is usually not worth it. We know it’s tempting to cut costs in any way you can, but when you look at the facts of refacing, you’ll see that the best choice is usually to just replace them.

That’s because the most expensive part of any cabinet is the door, generally accounting for about 70% of the total cost of the cabinet. If you’re already going to be purchasing the most expensive part, you may as well spend the additional amount to replace the entire cabinet. This will ensure better quality and precise matching of the doors and frame.

The best way to remodel your kitchen on a tight budget is to replace things gradually rather than completing the entire job at once while settling for lower-quality products. Maybe start with just upgrading the cabinets and painting. Then add in new appliances and lighting at a later date. This allows you to still choose high-quality products without breaking your budget.