Kitchen renovations can improve your life in many ways. This explains why a third of homeowners report healthier lifestyles after their kitchen renovation.
So, if your kitchen has any issues—such as leaks, electrical issues, poor lighting, inadequate storage or prep space, outdated appliances and style, or a layout that isn’t functional—or if your needs have changed, it’s time to renovate your kitchen.
Kitchen renovations are a big deal—there’s a lot involved, including time, money, and energy (both mental and physical). This post is your quickstart guide, providing you with information, tips, and advice from our kitchen renovation experts.
Planning a Kitchen Remodel
Let’s start at the beginning—the planning stage of your kitchen renovation. Before you hire a contractor or order any materials—even before you design your new kitchen—you need to decide on a few things and plan ahead.
DIY Kitchen Renovations
Should you do it yourself or hire a kitchen renovation professional? The answer to this question depends on three important factors:
- Work & Time
- Tools & Skills
- Quality & Cost
You might be surprised by what’s involved in creating the kitchen of your dreams. Your time is valuable, and so is your sanity. Do some research to ensure you know what you’re in for. For detailed information, read Kitchen Renovations: DIY vs Hire a Professional.
Timing Your Kitchen Renovations
When is the best time to renovate your kitchen? There are pros and cons of renovating during every season of the year. Consider your family’s schedule, the weather and how it might impact your life during the renovation process, your budget, and product lead times.
How long does a kitchen renovation take? That depends on the size of your kitchen, the scope of the installation (i.e. demolition requirements, structural changes, etc.), the complexity of the design, the availability of the materials and contractors, and any changes that might be required during the process. Your kitchen designer, suppliers, and contractors can give you an estimate, but keep in mind it’s their best prediction—not a guarantee.
That said, after all the planning and preparation are complete, a typical kitchen renovation timeline is about 5-6 weeks once the demolition begins.
Surviving a Kitchen Renovation
The truth is that kitchen renovations can be stressful, but there are many things you can do to avoid stress and delays during your reno.
Renovation delays are often caused by things beyond your control, such as pre-existing conditions you were unaware of, weather conditions, product back orders, contractor availability, and permit wait times. But you can take proactive steps to help you avoid common renovation delays, such as:
- maintain clear communication with contractors,
- provide access to your home for contractors even when you’re not there,
- avoid interrupting contractors while they’re working,
- make product selections as early is possible, and
- prepare your home in advance.
Read more tips on how to avoid common renovation delays and how to avoid renovation stress.
How do you survive a kitchen renovation while living in the house? There are several ways—such as protecting rugs and furniture from dust, maintaining manageable routines, and caring for your mental health. A crucial one is setting up a temporary kitchen. In an uncarpeted area with a water source, set up temporary countertops and storage, stock up on convenient foods, and equip yourself with highly efficient supplies like an electric kettle, InstaPot, blender, toaster oven, and microwave-safe dishes. Keep it simple and remember that it’s temporary.
Average Price of a Kitchen Renovation
How much does a whole kitchen renovation cost? What does an average kitchen renovation cost? What if your kitchen is small? What if your kitchen is quite large? As with many kitchen renovation questions, the answer is: it depends.
Experts recommend spending between 10-15% of the market value of your home on your kitchen renovation. This ensures a better return on your investment. Other factors that affect kitchen renovation price include the location of your home, the size of your kitchen, the degree of the changes you’re making, your new appliances, the cabinets you choose, your other material selections (e.g. countertops, hardware, lighting, etc.), and project management.
Kitchen Remodel on a Budget
Can you do a kitchen reno on a budget? What are the most affordable kitchen renovations?
A key here is to determine a realistic budget for your kitchen renovations. Research actual costs of materials and labor by getting estimates from professionals, and break down the costs by task so you can decide where you can save. Always leave room in your budget for unexpected expenses.
When your kitchen renovation threatens to exceed your budget, you have three options: raise the budget, select different materials, and re-evaluate your priorities to determine what you can change or give up to save money.
You can reach a kitchen renovation price you’re comfortable with. Talk to an expert about cost-effective kitchen remodeling solutions.
Kitchen Contractors Near Me
Do your research before hiring a contractor to manage your renovation project. The best option is one that comes highly recommended to you by someone you know and trust. Without a personal referral, select three potential contractors, get quotes, and consider the following:
- Are they insured?
- Will they take responsibility for permits?
- Is a deposit required for materials? If so, how much?
- Do they provide a written agreement with clear payment schedules?
If someone you know refers you to a specific contractor, ask the referrer if:
- The contractor was readily available to answer or return calls,
- The workers started on time each day,
- They stayed within the budget, and
- They completed the work according to plan.
Whatever you decide, don’t base your decision solely on price. The client-contractor relationship is vital to the success of your renovation project and the most important factor in reducing renovation stress. Trust is the key, so choose a kitchen designer and contractor you trust.
The experts at Riverstone Kitchens & Renovations are happy to provide you with estimates and answer any questions you may have about kitchen renovations. Contact us today for a free consultation.
