DIY

7 Tips to Help You Tackle a Kitchen Renovation

In most households, the kitchen is considered to be the heart of the home. So when the time comes for a kitchen renovation, we may find it to be one of the most difficult projects in terms of the disruption to our everyday life. Kitchen renovations also tend to be expensive, so planning ahead and being prepared for emergencies is important. Follow these seven easy tips to get ready for a successful kitchen renovation project that won’t override your budget or time limitations:

Create a Timeline for the Completion of the Project. While delays can and will happen in a major renovation, you should have a fairly solid idea of when you’ll get your kitchen back. Knowing how long the work will take allows you to make the necessary arrangements for meals. You should also ask to be notified of time periods when the water or power will need to be turned off in the house so you can work around it.

Set a Solid Budget. Kitchen renovations have a way of escalating in cost as they go along. Avoid last-minute changes to the plan by setting a budget and sticking to it. Select everything ahead of time, and while you may need to make a few changes, know what your limit is in terms of upgrades. It’s best to carefully select major purchases such as countertops, cupboards, faucets, and sinks before any work starts, and stick to those choices.

Set Up a Temporary Kitchen. Clear a space in another room away from the mess and set up a few basics. A long folding table with a microwave, toaster oven, and coffee maker will cover a lot of simple meals. If you can, move in a mini-fridge for essentials. Add paper plates, plastic cups, and other basics that don’t need washing. Having the option to make food at home can prevent eating out from eating away at your renovation budget.

Plan Meals Ahead. Cook ahead of time and freeze meals that can be heated up in the microwave or toaster oven. When going to the grocery store, make sure to shop with your limited temporary kitchen in mind. 

Clear Out Carefully. Remove everything from the kitchen and store it carefully in labeled boxes, much as you would if you were moving. Make space for your boxes in a spare room, garage, basement, or other location. Having things organized and in one place will make moving into your new kitchen easier. You should also clear out areas where workers will be passing through carrying materials – pictures may get knocked off walls, or furniture may be damaged in passing.

Cover What You Can’t Move. Anything that is in the range of dust or debris should be covered with plastic sheeting for protection. It’s also a good idea to cover the floors to protect from heavy work boots and dropped materials.

Establish Communication. Make sure your contractor knows that you want to be notified of the progress and of any problems or changes. Knowing what’s going on and how things are moving forward will make it easier to get through the chaotic time period of a kitchen renovation.

With these tips in hand, you will now be prepared for a successful kitchen renovation project!