There are many reasons to remodel your kitchen or bathroom. What are yours? Is the décor stuck in the past? Are your appliances and fixtures old and not energy or water efficient? Does the layout not match your lifestyle?
No matter what your motivation is to remodel, much of the process is the same. It starts with a plan, anchored with a solid budget and great people to help you get the job done on time and on budget.
Here is a selection of our best tips for success.
The Hiring Process
To alleviate the stress and upheaval of a remodel, align yourself with a qualified contractor.
Some good questions to ask include:
- Who supplies the materials (you or the contractor)?
- Does the contractor do all the work himself, or is there subcontracting?
- Does he carry liability and/or workers' compensation insurance?
- What are the work hours?
- What is the payment schedule?
- Are you entitled to any kind of warranty?
- What kind of after-service do you offer?
- Do you have personal references?
- How much experience do you have?
Don’t be shy to ask questions. It’s how you find your best match.
Considerations for Your Planning
The number one thing that you need to consider (aside from your budget) is if you are going to be able to use the current footprint or if you need to tear down and start again.
Using the current footprint obviously is easier, but it may not work if your biggest concern is space or layout.
What kind of layout would support the traffic that you’ve got going through the room? Does your family gather in the kitchen to cook and hang out together?
Are you always on the go, so need more room to move and gadgets that simplify your life rather than counter and prep space?
Do you need a luxurious bathtub, or would you get more use out of a standalone shower and large dressing area?
As a rule, make sure that you configure the space so that it makes your life easier- not the other way around.
Upgrading Fixtures
If being energy efficient is high on your list, take this time to upgrade your plumbing fixtures to ones that use less water.
You reduce your footprint and save money at the same time.
If you are getting new toilets, faucets, and showerheads, go for dual flush, motion sensor, or low-flow options.
If you are doing your kitchen only, consider installing an aerator on your faucet or a water filtration system.
Both are cost-saving and environmentally friendly.
You can also upgrade to energy-efficient dishwashers and other appliances.