Heart of the Home: How to Remodel a Kitchen (and How to Get Help)

When it comes to remodeling a home, the kitchen is one of the most popular rooms to get a makeover. 

If you are ready to start tearing out cabinets, then you need to learn how to remodel a kitchen. There is more to it than ripping out the old and installing the new.

Keep reading for a complete guide to renovating your kitchen.

How to Remodel a Kitchen

What is your reason for remodeling your kitchen? For some, they can't stand to look at their kitchen anymore. For others, they've always wanted to remodel but needed to wait until they had the means.

Then some recently bought their home, and they want to make the kitchen their own.

Whatever your reason, you need to create a plan before you start ripping out counters and cabinets. Knowing why you want to remodel can help you focus on key features that will help you to love your future kitchen.

Create a Budget

The first step in remodeling your kitchen is to create a budget. After all, you can't plan anything if you don't know how much you can spend. Remodels can go over budget very quickly, so be sure to include a cushion in your budget.

When creating your budget, dedicate 10-20% as a cushion. This way you won't be scrambling mid-renovation should something go wrong.

Do Your Research

Now that you have your budget, it's time to visit showrooms and do your research. Figure out the cost of your dream items. Then figure out what you can afford.

It is beneficial to consult with experts during this time. A contractor can advise you on areas where you can save and where you can splurge. This way you get the most bang for your buck.

Evaluate Needs and Wants

It can be tempting to buy all of the new fancy gadgets and appliances. However, do you really need a 36 bottle win fridge? How about that trash compactor?

Unless you are a wine connoisseur, the wine fridge will end up being an unused, wasted investment. It is smarter to focus on quality pieces that you will use daily.

Make a list of your wants and needs to begin separating out the things you absolutely know are necessary versus the things that would be nice to have, if they fit into your budget.

Consider the Layout

One way you can save big on your remodel is to not change the layout. If your current layout is not practical or functional, then this may be an expense you cannot avoid.

A good strategy is to use the work triangle theory. Place the sink, stove, and fridge in a triangle pattern. These are the most used features of your kitchen, and placing them in a triangle requires the fewest number of steps.

Also, think about the flow of people in and out of the kitchen. Is there a way to create a continuous flow of traffic through the kitchen?

Plan Your Space

Another critical point is to think about safety. A remodeling contractor can help you ensure that you don't create a safety hazard when designing your new kitchen.

Counters

You should plan to have at least 36 inches of counter space for food preparation. There should be at least 24 inches on one side of your sink and 18 inches on the other side.

If you can create more counter space than these minimums, then that is ideal.

Appliances

Don't forget that you need space in front of your appliances to be able to use them. This is at least 30 to 48 inches.

The most significant issue people run into is the oven door getting caught up on cabinet door hardware. This is because the oven was put too close the corner.

You also need to think about the depth and direction of doors that swing open. The refrigerator is the biggest culprit for this issue.

If you plan to put your fridge next to a wall, you need to have the door swing away from the wall. Otherwise, you risk the wall inhibiting the door from fully opening.

Walkways

You need to have at least 42 inches of space for your walkways. This is the space between your counter and island.

If you have less than this, you risk people bumping into each other when working in the kitchen together.

Final Rundown

When you think that you have everything in place, you need to sit down with your contractor and do one last run through. Double check your budget, price quotes, and measurements.

Discuss any possible complications, and your plan should they arise. Then decide on a start date to begin your remodeling adventure.

Remember, this is your home and your budget, don't let yourself get talked into anything you don't want or need.

During the Remodel

Just because the contractor has started work doesn't mean that your job is done. You will find that there are many questions your contractor will have for you throughout the process.

Stay active in your remodel so that you can ensure a smooth and continuous remodel. You may find that what you thought you wanted won't work, and you need to change course mid-remodel.

You also need to monitor your expenses to ensure that you stay on budget.

Let's Plan Your Kitchen Remodel

Now that you have the knowledge you need and know how to remodel a kitchen, it's time to start planning yours. Start by creating your budget and doing research. Visit showrooms and get inspired by the possibilities for your kitchen.

Work with a contractor to ensure that your future kitchen plans comply with safety regulations and code. When you have your final plan in place, review everything one more time. You want to discover a mistake now and not mid-remodel.