Remodeling a kitchen can be an exciting project, whether it’s a summer task or a job you’ve procrastinated on for too long. However, it requires a lot of thought and expertise to be done right. In this article, we’ll cover the top 13 mistakes to avoid while remodeling your kitchen.
1- Overlooking Your Budget
The most important step in any home renovation project is setting a budget. Your budget will guide your remodeling plan, so be clear about the changes you want to make to your kitchen, such as building more cabinets, drawers, shelves, a new kitchen island, a larger pantry space, or new installations of lights. Once you have a clear and realistic picture of your remodeled kitchen in your mind, accommodate it within your budget. Keep track of the services and charges as the work progresses.
2- Not Considering the Inventory
A thorough inventory of your kitchen is essential for a successful remodeling project. Consider your most used electrical appliances, the expected flow of traffic in the kitchen, and ways to enhance your floor plan. This will help designers work around your unique requirements and create a customized kitchen that caters to your needs.
3- Skipping the Aspect of Lighting
Lighting can make all the difference in your kitchen’s functionality and appearance. A well-lit kitchen strikes a balance between ambient, task, and decorative lighting. Ambient lighting includes chandeliers and ceiling lights that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while task lights include wall and pendant lights that light up the sink, dining, and cooking areas. Decorative lighting adds a personalized touch in the form of wall art, plants, and more.
4- Forgetting Clearances
Clearances are essential for avoiding bottlenecks and making the most of your kitchen space. Use a measuring tape to jot down the space configurations accordingly, and pay careful attention to corners, door spaces, and drawer hardware. For example, plan for a seat near the kitchen bar that’s adjacent to the refrigerator so that it can open all the way.
5- Under Planning Your Storage
If you’ve ever faced the issue of inadequate storage, use your remodeling project to address it. Note the measurements of the drawers and doors, especially those in the bottom cabinets, and be futuristic about this to avoid running into problems later. The best way to do this is to have a list of all of your appliances and cookware, so that you can adequately plan space for them.
6- Creating Dead Space
Your kitchen should not be overcrowded or too empty. Consider the items that go into your kitchen to avoid dead space or congestion. You can install a dining bar or place a cozy seating area with a table in the kitchen.
7- Missing Electrical Elements
Be mindful of the electrical appliances that go inside the kitchen, such as microwaves, refrigerators, dishwashers, water filters, toasters, blenders, exhaust fans, ceiling lights, and power sockets. Pre-plan for outlets along the perimeter of your kitchen, and install new outlets if you are constructing a fresh island altogether. Install a countertop with outlets alongside your pantry space to create secured spots and declutter your counter completely.
8- Neglecting the Structure
Stay true to your kitchen’s structure and architecture, even as you make modifications. Ensure that the selected designs sync with the structural and architectural frames of your kitchen. Overdoing it may result in a kitchen with several brilliant parts without any cohesive value. For example, a kitchen that’s too modern will be unsettling in a more traditional setting.
It’s generally recommended to install cabinets before the flooring in a kitchen remodel. However, there are a couple of potential issues that can arise from this approach. Firstly, if the cabinets are installed before the flooring, the floor may lose its ability to compress or expand. Secondly, there’s an increased risk of damaging or tampering with the cabinets during the flooring installation.
9- Cabinets Prior to Flooring
Experts generally recommend installing the flooring before the cabinets to avoid potential issues such as the cabinets becoming unlevel due to the settling of the flooring. However, if you choose to install the cabinets first, it is important to take steps to protect them during the flooring installation process.
One option is to cover the cabinets with a protective layer, such as plastic sheeting, to prevent any damage from debris or tools. Another option is to install temporary flooring around the cabinets, leaving a small gap for the permanent flooring to be installed later.
10- Not Hiring a Professional
It may be alluring to try to tackle a kitchen remodeling project yourself to save money, but the truth is that it’s not a DIY job. Making mistakes or missing important details can end up costing you more in the near future.
Contractors have an experienced team of experts who can handle all phases of the remodeling process. From plumbing to electrical work, they know how to make the best decisions to ensure that everything is done correctly. Take the time to interview several contractors until you find one you can trust to handle your project with care.
11- Not Strategizing Appliance Placement
One of the most vital aspects of kitchen remodeling is strategizing the placement of your appliances. If you’re not happy with the current arrangement, take the opportunity to redo it and create a rational workflow that allows everything to go hand-in-hand.
Think about the most convenient way to move around the space and situate your appliances accordingly. For example, if your sink faces a window and the kitchen extends to your right, don’t automatically choose to place your dishwasher to your right as well. Instead, consider situating it to your left for more seamless activity.
By carefully planning the placement of your appliances, you can create a more functional and efficient kitchen that makes meal preparation and clean-up a breeze.
12- Blindly Relying on Trends
While it’s tempting to follow the latest design trends when remodeling your kitchen, it’s important to keep in mind that these trends can quickly become outdated. Instead of going all-in on trendy designs, focus on finishes that have a timeless look and feel. This will ensure that your kitchen looks great for years to come and will save you the hassle and expense of having to redo the renovation in a few years. Remember that trends come and go, but a classic, well-designed kitchen will never go out of style.
13- Selecting an Unsuitable Flooring
If you’re considering hardwood flooring for your kitchen, it’s important to research the best type for your needs. Make sure to choose a wood with an appropriate finish, such as prefinished hardwood. Keep in mind that standard hardwood can be slippery and hazardous for children.
An anti-slip alternative is a distressed, reclaimed, or hand-scraped wood. Hickory is also a great option for abrasion-resistant and durable flooring. Don’t forget to take into account your lifestyle and preferences when selecting your kitchen flooring to ensure it is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Bottom Line
By avoiding these common kitchen remodeling mistakes, you can ensure that your renovation project runs smoothly and meets your expectations. Remember to plan carefully, hire professionals when needed, and prioritize functionality over trends.
Impressions Kitchen USA specializes in kitchen remodeling and design, with a team of experts dedicated to providing top-notch services. Our comprehensive solutions cover everything from renovation and design to the installation of high-quality and stylish cabinets, baths, and vanities. Let us help you transform your kitchen into a beautiful and functional space you’ll love spending time in.
