Planning a kitchen remodel can be challenging, but also very rewarding. In the initial stages, you will be dreaming about Italian kitchen faucets, contemporary stainless steel kitchen sinks, and dark granite countertops.
The next step is to find a contractor, and you should plan to talk with at least three. The best place to find a kitchen remodel contractor is to ask friends and family whom they would recommend, and there are many online resources that rate and review contractors. By asking a few pre-screening questions you can avoid some typical inconveniences of a kitchen remodel. The questions are as follows:
What is the contractor’s scope of work?
Is the contractor going to remove the old cabinets, or does he expect them to be gone when he arrives? The scope of work will identify the contractor’s responsibilities and enough details for drawing up a cost estimate. The scope of work should also cover payments and payment schedules.
Will you help with the design?
You may need to submit drawings of the remodel for permits. This plan can be drawn by a designers or licensed contractor. The plans will ensure appliances do not block cabinet doors, and map out any new wiring or plumbing that may be involved.
Will this sink and faucet work with my counter top?
There are several styles of sinks and fixtures that all have to pair together. For example, the contemporary stainless steel kitchen sinks can be undermounts. This style attaches underneath the counter, and makes it easy to brush crumbs right into the sink because there is no lip. Undermounts can cost more to install, but there are other options that are just as nice and maybe more within your budget, such as discount copper kitchen sinks.
The Italian kitchen faucets you have been dreaming of will need to pair with the sink, and you will need to know if the countertop needs custom holes behind the sink, or if the sink is pre-drilled for faucets. You will want to discuss smaller details with the contractor before the project starts.
Don't forget to ask about subcontractors.
Ask the contractor, who will be performing the work and if he is bringing in additional tradesmen, like electricians or plumbers. If so, you will want to confirm that the extra help is properly insured, licensed, and bonded. Almost all contractors offer proof of insurance at the very beginning, so it should be something they have ready to present.
What should I know about the cost?
After you have selected the cabinets, material, and colors, it is a good idea to prepare for allowances. If your heart is set on the discount copper kitchen sinks but the contractor encounters a plumbing issue, you will still be able to proceed. During any remodel there is always a chance of some unknown popping up and stalling the progress or create changes in the design. Having an allowance set aside will ease the stress of any unplanned events.
Time is very valuable during a kitchen remodel so doing a lot of homework and preplanning will pay off. Study and go look at various kitchen layouts, styles, and plans. Get bids, make sure you are financially ready, and interview several contractors. These actions will help make any kitchen remodel go smoothly and stay closely within budget.