Thoughts on Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchen remodeling can be an overwhelming job, but with professional help and some solid kitchen remodeling ideas to get you started, things can go smoothly. The kitchen is the heart of your home so why not do all you can to make it more your own? If you take your time, stay organized and plan things out ahead of time, you can turn your kitchen into something truly perfect for your home easily.

Hardman Construction offers these steps you should take when remodeling your kitchen:
• Find inspiration for your new kitchen.
• Plan your total remodel budget.
• Determine your kitchen layout.
• Choose the right flooring material.
• Decide whether to replace or reface your cabinets.
• Buy appliances that match your needs.
• Pick a countertop surface that fits your lifestyle and budget.
• Select faucets and sinks with style and utility.
• Complete your new kitchen with proper lighting.

The key to successful kitchen remodeling is organized planning and hiring high-quality professional help. Before you even contact a contractor, make sure you have a clear vision in your mind of what you want your kitchen to look like. Browse through design websites and magazines for inspiration. Just remember, it’s always more rewarding and fun to design a unique living space for yourself rather than copying a room from a catalogue.

Along with budgeting money properly, you should also make sure that you budget time correctly. You don’t want to schedule your kitchen remodel near an important event or days before the holiday season when you may need your kitchen. So check your calendar before scheduling any work to be done.

Kitchen remodeling doesn’t always have to cost an arm and a leg. There are many budget-friendly ways to make your kitchen look like new! Instead of replacing all of the cabinets, you can just have them refaced if they are in good condition. You can also go for more affordable products such as laminate countertops rather than granite. If you get the right color and style to go with your home, it will look good and no one will know how much was spent.

All contractors are not create equal....

Recently we have all felt the pressures of a less than strong economy. For those of you that are property or homeowners one avenue for maintaining or improving your equity is to remodel or add an addition to your current home. When you start a project as important as remodeling or adding to your home, you need to have 100% trust in your contractor. Using some caution and being diligent in your selection process can help guarantee a successful project.

All contractors are NOT the same. Some are good at building new homes, others are good at renovating old houses, and still some others are just really good handymen. Picking the right contractor for the right job is key. Whether you are hiring someone to do a small kitchen renovation or adding on a large addition to your home take time to talk to your contractor about his career experiences. Things to think about include:

·         How long has he been building or renovating?

·         Does he specialize in the type of construction that fits with your project?

·         Is he licensed, bonded and insured?

·         Does he have any referral clients you can talk to? If so, contact his past customers and ask to see the project that was completed. Does the quality of his workmanship meet your standards?

·         Does he have a portfolio showing some of his past work? Before & after pictures?

·         Is his estimate for your project a reasonable price? BE AWARE of low bidders who add to the project w/ unforeseen change orders.

It’s the old adage you get what you pay for. Most contractors strive to provide good quality craftsmanship in their work. Customer service and honesty are important factors. The biggest benefit of a satisfied customer is the opportunity for referrals and the chance to work on another project again together in the future.

To view other frequently asked construction questions please log on to www.hci-nw.com