A kitchen renovation is a great way to enhance the appeal of your home and increase the equity value of your real estate. Your kitchen is one of the most widely used parts of your home and can be the center of social gatherings. For this reason, a kitchen remodeling project can be worth the investment. To help you understand more about the stages of a kitchen remodel, take the time to read this article from Owens Construction.
Hire a Professional Contractor
First, it’s important that you hire a professional contractor to ensure that your kitchen remodeling goes smoothly. General contractors are usually construction firms that specialize in managing home improvement projects from start to finish. They will also be tasked to obtain all the necessary building permits. By hiring quality contractors, rest assured that you will complete your dream kitchen in no time.
Prepare Your Meals
As your kitchen is being remodeled, your plumbing and appliances may be disconnected for a while. As such, be sure to make arrangements and contingency plans for your meals during this time. You may want to move your appliances into another room and set up a temporary kitchen. You may also want to cook up your meals in advance and store them in your freezer so you can reheat them in your microwave.
Kitchen Tear Down and Disposal
After hiring your remodeling contractors and preparing your meals, it’s time for the actual renovation. This involves tearing out your current kitchen and disposing of all the materials that cannot be reused. This process can be very messy and loud, but it may not be complicated unless the demolition requires the removal of load-bearing walls.
Structural Repairs
Once everything is removed, your contractors will carry out the necessary structural repairs. Depending on the design of your new kitchen, you may be facing some major construction tasks. Even minor kitchen remodeling projects may need stronger joists to support heavy appliances.
Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing Systems
The next step of your kitchen remodeling is the mechanical rough-in phase. This is typically performed by licensed electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. New kitchen lighting may need additional wiring or rewiring. Thus, you can consult your renovation contractor to subcontract the work to a professional electrician. Your mechanical systems need to be inspected as well. For instance, you may need large ductwork over your stove and microwave as per modern efficiency standards.
Additionally, your plumbing has to be assessed before installing other major features. An expert licensed plumber can examine and install your new plumbing system to avoid mistakes. Remember that faulty pipes and improper installation can lead to serious problems.
Finish Walls and Ceilings
After the mechanical rough-in phase, the walls and ceilings can finally be closed up. Your contractors may insulate your exterior walls with fiberglass batt to provide a buffer between the kitchen and the weather. Drywall is hung, and seams are taped and finished. Walls and ceilings are also primed and painted.
Flooring Installation
Installing your flooring is one of the last stages before cabinets and appliances are installed. There is a wide variety of flooring your home remodeling company may recommend. Sheet vinyl is one of the most affordable flooring choices and can be completed in one day. Laminate flooring is also another popular choice for its low price and ease of installation. If you’re going for a more classic look, you may want to consider hardwood on porcelain tile.
Cabinetry and Countertops Installation
High-quality cabinets should be able to support your counters, appliances, and sinks. In addition, they provide storage for your silverware and utensils as well as hide the plumbing and electrical systems. During this stage, trim, rails for lighting, closers, and any other cabinet accessories are also installed.
Moreover, your countertops will also have a major impact on your new kitchen. The ideal countertop not only completes the room with its appeal but should also be durable and easy to maintain. Installing your countertops may be harder than it looks. However, with the right contractor, they will be able to handle your corners, joints, and end pieces with care and ensure minimal gaps and proper sealing.
Backsplash and Appliances Installation
Tiles are usually used to create a stylish backsplash. To create a modern look, you may want to consider tin panels on the wall and engineered hardwood on the floor. If you’re going for an eco-friendly design, you may want to use recycled glass backsplash and cork flooring.
Finally, to complete your kitchen remodeling project, your appliances are then installed. Your contractors will ensure that your power and water are hooked up, including natural gas lines for your oven. Dishwashers are connected to garbage disposals and over the range microwaves are placed above your stove to double as an exhaust fan.
Now that you know the basic stages of kitchen remodeling, you are now ready to make your dream kitchen a reality. For quality kitchen contractors, look no further than Owens Construction. Call us today at (614) 846-1149 or fill out our contact form to set an appointment.
