Steps to a kitchen remodel

Many people want to renovate their kitchen, but the process is often easier said than done. Achieving the dream kitchen you’ve always envisioned requires systematic planning and streamlined effort. Follow these steps from the Braemar team to minimize stress and maximize results.

1). Demolition: There is a suggested process to demolition that will make everything easier in the long run. Remove cabinet doors first then remove the cabinets. Second, take out the garbage disposal, sink, and countertops. After that, remove windows and door trim (do this carefully if you plan to reuse them). The next step is removing appliances and lighting fixtures (make sure power is turned off first). Finally, remove wall paneling and studs, if your renovation is going that deep. Finally, remove the flooring if it’s also being replaced. Before getting started with the remodel, thoroughly clean up by recycling anything you can and taking the rest to the dump.

2). Plumbing and wiring: With everything now down to bare bones, you can replace old plumbing and wiring. If you’re ever going to do it, now’s the time before you rebuild walls. This step can be a beast of a project if you’re inexperienced. Depending on your budget, you may want to hire a general contractor to oversee this portion of the remodel to make sure it’s done correctly and thoroughly.

3). Lighting: Before you move on to drywall, cabinetry, counters, and appliances, take the time to adequately install kitchen lighting. Some lighting, such as task lighting, may have to wait, but the majority of lighting can be installed at this stage in the renovation process.

4). Drywall: Once electrical, plumbing and lighting are situated, it’s time to close the walls back in. If you have the budget, it may be best to hire a professional for this phase, depending on your level of confidence and expertise. While hanging drywall can be relatively straightforward, the mudding part can be very tricky and you want to make sure it’s done correctly.

5). Painting: Next comes the fun part of choosing colors for your new kitchen and painting the walls and ceiling. With everything removed, the painting will be easy and straightforward. Make sure you select colors you will enjoy for a while because painting a final kitchen is much more complicated than painting an empty kitchen. With no cabinets, counters or appliances in the way, you can knock this step out pretty quickly.

6). Flooring: There are a plethora of flooring options on the market right now. Gone are the days when your only choice was laminate. Whether you stick to that tried-and-true option or something else, such as tile, hardwood or concrete, you can find something that fits both your budget and décor. A designer can be very helpful at this stage in the renovation. Be sure to consider your paint scheme, cabinet material, and appliance type before you select flooring.

7). Cabinetry: Like flooring, there are numerous cabinet options on the market. Whether you desire stock, semi-custom or custom, you can find cabinets that will fit your needs and budget. Along with custom grade, you’ll also need to decide on the wood type. Consider how the wood type blends with flooring, paint, and appliances.

8). Countertops and backsplash: At this point, we’re getting close to the end of the renovation. Popular countertop materials include granite, quartz, concrete, laminate and butcher block. All types offer a range in terms of cost and style. Also, some types are stronger, more durable and resistant to stain than others. Be sure to do your research to ensure your countertops correspond with your lifestyle. This is also the stage when you can install a backsplash, which offers unique style and décor to any kitchen space.

9). Appliances and accessories: Last but not least, now that you have your fully functioning renovated kitchen, it’s time to move in appliances and accessorize. Stainless steel appliances are durable and popular but not necessary. There are many other options available. Once appliances are situated, you can then have some fun with accessories like window treatments, mirrors, picture frames, flowers, vases and more.

Renovating a kitchen is an exciting endeavor but to decrease the stress level, be sure to develop a strategic plan and follow the advice given by the experts. Our Braemar designers are highly skilled at working with homeowners and creating designs that bring your vision to life. Call us today. We’re ready to get started!