Home owners spend more money on kitchen remodeling than on any other home improvement project. Makes sense because kitchens tend to be the center of home life…even for those who don’t cook.
Done right a significant portion of the expense of a kitchen remodel can be recovered by the value it brings to your home.
To make sure you maximize your return, follow these smart kitchen remodeling strategies.
Get Your Priorities Straight:
Spend time planning your kitchen remodel.
- Cooking traffic patterns: A walkway through the kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide. Work aisles should be a minimum of 42 inches wide and at least 48 inches wide for households with multiple cooks.
- Child safety: Avoid sharp, square corners on countertops, and make sure microwave ovens are installed at the proper height—3 inches below the shoulder of the primary user but not more than 54 inches from the floor.
- Make sure you know ALL the dimensions of the appliances and cabinets you are buying. Especially be aware of details like how wide doors open so it allows for enough clearance from other appliances and center islands.
- Don’t start any work until all the materials have arrived in your home
- Once you’ve completed your kitchen remodel plan…DO NOT change your mind. Mid-renovations are the most costly “not planned on” expenses on record.
Get Professional Help:
If the thought of planning your remodel makes you sick to your stomach consider hiring a professional designer. Pros can help make style decisions, foresee potential problems, and schedule contractors. Expect fees around $50 to $150 per hour, or 5% to 15% of the total cost of the project.
Appliances:
It’s easy to get carried away during your kitchen remodel when looking to upgrade some of your appliances. Yes, that six-burner commercial-grade range and luxury-brand refrigerator may look like “must-haves” but they may not fit your cooking needs or lifestyle.
High-priced appliances are worth the investment if you’re an exceptional cook. Otherwise, save thousands with trusted brands that got high marks at consumer review websites, like www.ePinions.com and www.amazon.com, or Consumer Reports.
Lighting:
- Task lighting: recessed or track lights, over sinks and food prep areas. Assign at least two fixtures per task to eliminate shadows. Under-cabinet lights are so functional and look great as well.
- Ambient lighting includes flush-mounted ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, and track lights. Pair dimmer switches with ambient lighting to control intensity and mood.
Even if you are planning on moving, functionality and durability should be top priorities during a kitchen remodel. Resist the urge to purchase low-quality bargains!!!!! Instead choose products that combine low maintenance with long warranty periods. Solid-surface countertops, for instance, may cost a little more, but with the proper care, they’ll look great for a long time.
Remember ….products with substantial warranties is a selling advantage.
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