Are you planning to have your entire kitchen remodeled? If so, you probably know how challenging and overwhelming remodeling projects can be. Homeowners facing these tasks for the first time may find them too complicated.
Several issues need to be addressed before you begin remodeling your kitchen. These include finalizing your budget, signing documents like agreements and permits, deciding on the overall design, etc.
So that you don’t miss anything crucial, it’s necessary to make a comprehensive kitchen remodeling checklist. It’ll also assist you in organizing your ideas so you won’t get overwhelmed. This way, you’ll be able to remodel your kitchen according to your needs and wants.
Luckily, you’re in the right place if you don’t know where to start. This article talks about the important items that should be included in your checklist, the features you need to consider, and the materials that’ll work best for these items.
What To Include On The Kitchen Remodeling Checklist
Before you start with the checklist, make sure to reevaluate your budget first. If you don’t have the resources to get everything you desire, it’s a good idea to prioritize remodeling what you and your family need.
For example, if you want a luxurious porcelain sink, why get one if a low-cost stainless-steel sink offers similar functions? Stainless steel may not be as aesthetic as porcelain, but it can still add value to your home, especially if you plan on selling your house someday.
Here are some items you can include on your kitchen remodeling checklist:
- Kitchen Countertops
Countertops help set the ambiance, tone, and mood of your kitchen. They’re the first element people often notice. This is why it’s important to choose the right countertop that fits your kitchen and your needs.
Here are some of the most popular countertop materials to choose from:
- Granite
Granite is an expensive slab of stone that can significantly boost your home’s value. On top of that, it can resist scratches and heat, is low-maintenance, and offers timeless beauty. However, make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent damage and stains.
- Marble
Marble is a great alternative to granite. It offers a wide range of colors and textures, such as beige, gray, white, and black. Also, it’s a great option for bakers because it can maintain cold temperatures, which is ideal for kneading dough and cookies.
- Quartz
Quartz is a good alternative to granite and marble. It’s less expensive, stain- and scratch-resistant, non-porous, and doesn’t require any sealing method. However, seams can be visible, and designs can look more artificial.
Other options may include wood, laminates, tiles, and more. However, if you can’t decide which type of countertop to choose, home interior providers, such as Affordable Granite and Stone, are a good resource for advice on what will work in your space and how to put it in properly.
- Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinets are one of the most crucial elements when remodeling a kitchen. Much like your countertops, choosing the right cabinet is important. It should offer enough space and functionality to address your needs. So, how will you choose the right one for your kitchen?
When selecting kitchen cabinets, make sure to take into account these factors:
- Style
If you’re looking for cabinets with rich, dark tones, cherry wood is a good option. On the other hand, if you want your cabinet to exude an exotic appeal, choose Sapele, bamboo, or mahogany. Also, don’t forget to consider coating your cabinets with lacquer to have that sleek and elegant look.
- Functionality
Regarding storage capacity, a frameless cabinet can store more items than a traditional rail-style one. Also, ensure you install soft-closing hinges on all your cabinet doors to avoid causing unnecessary noise when closing them.
- Touchless
These days, kitchen cabinets are becoming more and more advanced than ever. With touchless cabinets, you can limit your physical interaction when using them. This is ideal for cabinets intended for compost and waste materials.
- Hardware
When choosing hardware for your cabinet, ensure the style fits the overall design. Meanwhile, you can add hooks or valence to install light fixtures under your cabinets.
In addition, don’t forget to buy base cabinet inserts to help organize your items while storing them. Some inserts include spice organizers, door storage, mixer lifts, pullout shelves, fillers, cookware organizers, and drawers.
- Kitchen Island
An island is a functional centerpiece of a kitchen. This allows homeowners to do more prepping, washing, and cooking. Moreover, it provides additional storage space for your excess cookware collections.
If you don’t have enough space in your kitchen, having an island may not be a good option. Also, building one can cost a fortune. So, make sure to think carefully before getting one.
Here are some points to ponder when building an island:
- Size
When it comes to kitchen islands, size is an important factor to consider. Ideally, the size of your island should be no more than 10% of your total kitchen area. If it’s larger than that, it may lose its function, making it difficult for you to move around.
- Installing Cooktops
Most homeowners install cooktops or stoves on their islands, giving them additional working space and allowing them to entertain guests while cooking. Meanwhile, ensure the electric and gas lines are properly connected before installing your cooktop.
- Installing Exhaust
Of course, if you have a cooktop, you should consider installing a hood. This allows smoke to leave your home as soon as possible, preventing unnecessary odors.
- Freestanding Islands
You can improve your kitchen island by pairing it with a mobile one. This provides additional working space, which you can remove when the kitchen gets overcrowded. Also, ensure it’s on the same level as your main island.
You can also include additional chairs or bar stools on your island. This is perfect when entertaining guests and eating directly after cooking.
- Kitchen Sinks
If you’re sick and tired of your old sink, it’s time to change and remodel it. But before you purchase a new one, consider understanding the different types of sinks to choose from.
- Farmhouse Sink
Also known as an apron-front sink, this type features a huge, deep bowl that often requires special cabinet modifications to accommodate its size. Its design helps reduce the need to bend forward while doing the dishes and offers a rustic country charm.
- Undermount Sink
This type of sink sits underneath the countertop, which helps facilitate easy cleanup. However, it requires additional support below and consumes the space intended for cabinets. Also, keep in mind that it’s not easy to replace.
- Drop-In Sink
Also known as overmount sinks, drop-in sinks sit on top of the countertop. This sink type is easy to install and less expensive.
Once you’ve found the right type of sink for your kitchen, it’s time to choose the right material. Below are some of the most common kitchen sink materials to choose from.
- Stainless Steel
This is the most popular material for sinks. It’s durable, easy to clean and install, and lightweight. Plus, it can be coated with sound-deadening materials to minimize the noise while using the sink.
- Copper
Copper is a great material because it doesn’t get rusty easily. It may also develop a natural finish over time, known as patina. Significantly, copper has anti-microbial properties that help prevent the growth of common household viruses, mold, and bacteria.
- Porcelain
Porcelain sinks are increasingly popular due to their simple yet elegant look. Their smooth enamel surfaces are resistant to impacts, stains, and heat. Plus, they’re so easy to install and clean.
- Granite
Granite sinks are produced by applying a granite-acrylic coating on a resin sink. This produces a sink resistant to heat, stains, and scratches. In addition, the coating acts as a shield against microbes.
Significantly, it would be helpful if you could decide whether you want a single-bowl or a dual-bowl sink. Single-bowl sinks are ideal for families with no more than five members and rarely cook. Otherwise, go for dual-bowl sinks, especially for those who often cook.
- Kitchen Backsplash
A backsplash is a statement piece that helps defend your walls from water, oil, or anything that can damage your walls. It also contributes a touch of color, texture, and character, which amplifies your kitchen’s overall interior.
In addition, a backsplash doesn’t have to be luxurious and expensive. However, it has to be functional. Here are some of the materials you can use when installing a backsplash:
- Ceramic
Ceramics are popular for backsplashes due to their wide selection of colors, designs, and textures. On top of that, they’re cost-efficient, easy to clean, durable, and easy to install. However, smaller ceramic tiles may require more gout, which means more cleaning.
- Porcelain
Much like ceramic, porcelain offers various colors and designs. It has a perfectly smooth surface, which makes it easy to clean and maintain. It also offers a stylish and classy finish for an elegant look.
- Marble
Marble is widely known for its timeless beauty and elegance. Plus, it’s easy to clean and creates a nice contrast with dark-toned cabinets. However, be more careful when installing marble because it can easily chip, crack, and stain.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and patterns when choosing a backsplash. For example, you can use a rustic backsplash at the back of your stove and complement the design with modern ones for your countertops.
- Kitchen Flooring
If you have plans to remodel your kitchen, make sure not to forget your kitchen flooring. In fact, it should accommodate at least 10% of your allotted budget and has to be done early, after your walls and before your backsplashes.
It’s essential that your kitchen floor can handle heavy foot traffic and spillage. So, make sure to prioritize durability when choosing the right material. Nevertheless, keep in mind that the floor plays a vital role in the overall interior of your kitchen.
Here are some flooring materials worth considering for your next kitchen remodeling:
- Hardwood
This is probably the most popular material for kitchen flooring today. It offers a wide selection of colors and patterns to choose from and is easy to install. Since it’s not waterproof, applying a special coating can make it water-resistant.
- Tile
Tile is a good material to consider if you’re concerned about water damage. Porcelain, ceramic, and stone are the most common types of tiles. It comes in different sizes, colors, and patterns but needs sealing to prevent staining.
- Vinyl And Laminate
These two are cheaper alternatives to hardwood flooring. They’re easy to install even without an expert service provider. However, they’re not as durable as hardwood. Also, laminates aren’t always waterproof, unlike vinyl.
- Kitchen Appliances
The main purpose of a kitchen is to prepare and cook your family’s meals. Hence, appliances are crucial to the success of your kitchen. Without them, how will you be able to cook and preserve food most efficiently?
Since kitchen appliances can be expensive, ensure your options fit your budget. They shouldn’t have to be so expensive; what’s important is their functions.
Below are some tips for choosing the right kitchen appliances.
- Cooktops
Your cooktop can be gas-powered, electric, or induction; the choice is yours. But make sure to choose which is more efficient than the other. Check how much energy they consume before you settle for a brand or type of cooktop to purchase.
- Ovens
Some gas-powered ovens don’t promote even heat distribution and use more energy than electric and convection ones. This is especially important if you love to bake cakes and cookies or roast meat and poultry.
- Rangehoods
These appliances suck out the smoke and help promote healthy air circulation. Choose one that produces no noise at all, especially if that may bother you while cooking or entertaining guests.
- Refrigerators
If you want to get the most out of your money, look for a dual-compressor refrigerator. This preserves food better than single-compressor units. For configuration, choose between French-door, side-by-side, top-freezer, or bottom-freezer.
Final Words
Remodeling a kitchen is an overwhelming task. As you can see, there are many things you have to consider for every aspect you want to change. With this information, you can turn your dream kitchen into reality.