The kitchen is the center of any household. It is where families get to prepare their favorite meals and share them while they cherish each and every moment. Most of us probably still have that memory of our parents in the kitchen putting every bit of love into the meals they used to prepare for us. This is why the kitchen should be given number one priority during re-modelling. Unfortunately, most of us tend to ignore some aspects of a kitchen remodeling process and that is why we have prepared this blog to help you avoid such mistakes.
- Not Defining the Scope of the Project
One of the most common mistakes people make when planning a kitchen remodel is not taking the time to define the scope of the project from the outset. This can lead to all sorts of problems further down the line, such as going over budget, not being able to complete the project on time, or ending up with a finished product that doesn’t meet your needs and expectations.
- Not Having a Realistic Budget
Another mistake that far too many homeowners make is failing to set a realistic budget for their kitchen remodel. Before you start planning anything, sit down and work out how much you can afford to spend on the project. Keep in mind that the budget will need to cover not only the cost of materials and labor but also any permits or fees that may be required.
- Not Planning for Future Needs
If you’re planning on staying in your home for the long haul, it’s important to take future needs into account when planning your kitchen remodel. For example, if you think you might want to have children someday, then you’ll need to make sure there’s enough space in the kitchen for a high chair or a play area. Alternatively, if you’re getting older and anticipate needing more help in the kitchen, then you might want to plan for features such as grab bars or a wheelchair-accessible sink.
- Not Taking Into Account the Existing Layout
Another common mistake during kitchen remodeling is not taking the existing layout of the room into account. This can lead to all sorts of problems, such as having to move plumbing pipings and fittings or electrical lines, which will undoubtedly increase the cost and timeline of the project. Before you start making any changes, be sure to sit down and map out the existing layout of the room so you can work around it.
- Not Paying Attention to Traffic Flow
One of the most important things to consider when planning a kitchen remodel is traffic flow. After all, you want to be able to move around freely when you’re cooking or entertaining guests. To that end, be sure to leave enough space between countertops, islands, and other fixtures so people can move around easily.
- Not Considering the Work Triangle
Another important thing to keep in mind when planning your kitchen remodel is the work triangle, which is the area between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Ideally, this space should be as large as possible so you can move around freely when cooking. However, if you have a small kitchen, then you might need to get creative with your layout in order to make the most of the space you have.
- Not Incorporating Enough Storage
One mistake that far too many homeowners make when planning their kitchen remodel is not incorporating enough storage into the design. When you’re cooking, you need to be able to reach all of your supplies easily, so be sure to include plenty of cabinets, shelves, and drawers in your plans. Consider working with a reputable and the best kitchen cabinet maker in your area. Additionally, if you entertain often, then you might want to consider incorporating a wine fridge or an extra sink into the design.
- Not Choosing the Right Appliances
Another common mistake people make when planning their kitchen remodel is not taking the time to choose the right appliances. Not only do you need to make sure that the appliances you select are the right size for the space, but you also need to think about things like energy efficiency and whether or not they fit with your overall design aesthetic.
- Not Planning for Ventilation
If you’re going to be doing any cooking at all in your new kitchen, then it’s important to make sure there’s adequate ventilation. Not only will this help to prevent smoke and odors from permeating the rest of the house, but it can also help to keep your kitchen cooler and reduce the risk of grease fires. When planning your remodel, be sure to incorporate a range hood or other type of ventilation system into the design.
- Not Hiring a Qualified Contractor
Last but not least, one of the most common mistakes people make when planning a kitchen remodel is not hiring a qualified contractor. Not only do you need to make sure the contractor you hire is licensed and insured, but you also need to make sure they have experience with kitchen remodels specifically. Once you’ve found a few contractors you like, be sure to get bids from each of them and ask plenty of questions before making your final decision.
Conclusion
Hopefully, these tips will help you as you plan your next kitchen remodeling process. Put everything into consideration and you will not regret the results. It is important to make your kitchen exactly the way you envision it to be. Remember to ask for help if you need some. Good luck in your next project!
