DIY Installations

Pros:

Cost Savings: The most apparent and appealing benefit of a DIY approach is the cost savings that comes along with it. By avoiding labor costs, you can drastically reduce the overall expense of your kitchen renovation project.

Flexibility: With a DIY installation, you have the freedom to work on your own schedule. This allows you to take your time, make adjustments as needed, and complete the project at your own pace which can help your budget along the way as well.

Sense of Accomplishment: There is a profound sense of pride and accomplishment that comes along with successfully completing any DIY project; especially one as large as a kitchen renovation. It is very rewarding to see your vision come to life as a result of your own hard work and efforts.

Cons:

Skill and Expertise: There is a certain level of skill and expertise that is needed for a kitchen installation. If you do not have the proper knowledge of construction and tools, you might end up making costly mistakes that would compromise the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.

Time-Consuming: Although DIY installation timing can be flexible, that can also make them extremely time-consuming as well considering you might only be able to work on it in your free time. You might also come across unexpected challenges that can lead to delays and frustration.

Quality Concerns: Unless you are a seasoned DIYer, there is always the risk that the quality of your installation will not be up to par with the professionals. Poor craftsmanship can result in uneven surfaces, misaligned fixtures, or other aesthetic flaws.

Professional Installations

Pros:

Expert Craftsmanship: Obviously the most significant advantage of hiring a professional for your renovation is their expertise and craftsmanship. Professionals have the knowledge, skills, and tools to ensure precision and quality in implemented in every aspect of your kitchen.

Time-Efficiency: A professional often completes the project much faster than you would be able to on your own. Installers work efficiently which minimizes downtime and disruptions to your daily routine. More often than not, they have a team of multiple people working on the project as well so things get done quicker.

Warranty and Guarantee: Most professional installation companies will offer warranties and guarantees on their work. Having this provides peace of mind knowing that if any issues do arise post-installation with be addressed at no additional cost to you.

Cons:

Higher Cost: Of course, professionals will inevitably come with a higher cost compared to a DIY installation. It is not, however, without the added bonus of long-term value and durability that also comes with expert craftsmanship.

Less Control: If hiring professionals, you relinquish control over the installation process and some decisions. While professional installers will of course work closely with you to realize your vision, there might be limitations to the things they are able to customize and personalize.

Dependence on Others: Whenever you hire a professional, you are dependent on their availability and schedule. It may be a few months before they have time in their schedule for your project. There could also be delays in sourcing materials or unexpected setbacks that can prolong the timeline.

Ultimately, whether you choose a DIY kitchen install or hire professionals, it all comes down to budget, skill level, and your personal priorities. DIY projects can of course offer cost savings and a sense of accomplishment, but they also can come with risks and challenges in achieving professional-quality results. Professionals, on the other hand, will ensure expert craftsmanship, time efficiency, and peace of mind. Even if it does come at a higher cost. Whichever path you choose, it is important to prioritize the quality and durability of your kitchen renovation to create a space that will stand the test of time and that you and your family will love for years to come.

The post DIY vs. Professional Installation: What You Need to Know appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Plan for the Unexpected

The initial budgeting process should be thorough, but even with that, it is crucial to set aside a portion of your fund for unforeseen expenses. Things like discovering plumbing issues behind walls or encountering structural problems during demolition can surely be unexpected surprises and are almost inevitable in any renovation project. It is a good rule of thumb to allocate at least 10-20% of your total budget as a buffer to help cover any of the unexpected costs that may arise along the way.

Quality over Quantity

It might be tempting to choose cheaper materials and appliances to stay within your budget, but prioritizing quality can actually save you money in the long run. Choosing to invest in durable, high-quality materials and appliances will definitely require a higher upfront cost, but more than often they offer higher performance and longevity which reduces the likelihood of repairs or replacements down the road. Take into consideration things like warranties, energy efficiency, and maintenance when making purchasing decisions to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

Watch Out for Hidden Fees

There are of course the obvious costs of materials and labor that are associated with a kitchen remodel, but there are also other fees that you might not be aware of that can catch you off guard. Things like permit fees, disposal costs for old materials, and delivery charges for new appliances. Or if your project goes beyond your planned timeline, some companies might charge additional storage fees for things like appliances if you’re not ready for them to be delivered quite yet. These are the types of things you’ll want to research and factor in as additional expenses when creating your budget to avoid surprises later.

DIY vs. Professionals

Although it can be very tempting to tackle certain aspects of the renovation yourself as it can save you money, it is imperative to weigh the pros and cons carefully. DIY projects can seem cost-effective in some cases, however, they can lead to costly mistakes if they are not executed correctly. There are certain tasks like electrical work and plumbing that are best left to licensed professionals who know what they’re doing to ensure safety and compliance with building costs. Be realistic about your skills and expertise, and don’t take on more than you can handle. Consider hiring professionals for intricate tasks to avoid setbacks and expenses.

Shop Around

When hiring said professionals and purchasing materials, don’t just go with the first option you come across. Take the extra time to gather multiple quotes from different vendors or service providers. Compare them thoroughly and consider things like price, warranties, and customer reviews to find the best option for you and the best value for your money. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with contractors as well. Some of them are willing to match or beat competitor prices or even offer discounts for bundling services.

Plan for Post-Renovation Expenses

After you’ve just made a large investment in your new kitchen, it is important to budget for ongoing maintenance or upkeep to preserve that investment. Think through things like routine cleaning, repairs, and upgrades to appliances and fixtures over time. Things like this might not affect your project budget, but make sure you work them into your normal life budget moving forward to make sure you are protecting your investment. Additionally, with large upgrades like a kitchen renovation, it is important to update your homeowner’s insurance to make sure coverage is adequate for the new value of the home.

A kitchen remodel can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. With such a large investment, it is essential to approach the project with careful planning and budgeting to avoid falling victim to hidden costs that could put the project on hold. Anticipating potential expenses, prioritizing quality, and shopping around for multiple quotes help homeowners navigate the renovation process to achieve their desired results within their budget. If this all seems overwhelming and you don’t know where to begin, this is exactly what your local Kitchen Solvers is prepared to help you with. We can help work with you to create a budget that works for you and your dreams. Often, we can even offer financing for all or just a portion of your project as well to make it more feasible at this time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to start talking through the logistics of your dreams.

The post The Hidden Cost of Kitchen Remodeling: Budgeting Tips appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Budget Creep

Budget creep has become a cross-industry term that refers to the cost of a project or service rising above the initial planned budget. With any remodeling project, it’s easy to get carried away with upgrades and additions. These things can all pile up and send costs spiraling out of control. To prevent this, start by establishing a clear budget from the outset and organize your priorities and must-haves. Leave a little bit of wiggle room in your budget for unexpected expenses, but ultimately it’s your responsibility to be disciplined about sticking to your financial plan.

Timeline Delays

Delays need to be expected in any construction project, and kitchen remodels are no exception to that rule. Delays can be caused by permit issues, material shortages, or unexpected structural issues—you never know what your contractor might discover behind your walls. Delays can be frustrating, but to mitigate them, work closely with your contractor and create a realistic timeline that builds in some buffer periods for potential setbacks. Remember to stay flexible and patient and keep your eye on the prize—a brand-new kitchen.

Decision Fatigue

Homeowners can often find themselves overwhelmed with design fatigue when they see how many design choices are available to them. From cabinet styles to countertop materials and everything in between, the options can feel endless at times. To help streamline the decision-making process and avoid fatigue, it’s best to start by defining your design aesthetic. Break your decisions down into manageable chunks and don’t be afraid to seek input from professionals who can help narrow your choices down.

Structural Issues

If your remodel requires demolition, it’s not uncommon for unexpected structural issues to be uncovered. Things like water damage and outdated electrical can derail your remodel and add on significant costs and time to your project. To help minimize the risk of surprise, it’s a good idea to invest in a thorough pre-construction inspection to identify any potential issues beforehand. This is where that wiggle room that you built into your budget can come in handy to cover any unforeseen repairs that may arise.

Disruption to Daily Life

It’s important to be aware that a kitchen remodel can disrupt your daily routine and create temporary chaos in your home. Meal prep and cooking can become challenging tasks without access to a functional kitchen. In order to minimize the disruption, consider setting up a temporary kitchen in another part of your home like the basement, garage, or laundry room. Prepare frozen meals ahead of time or stock up on easy-to-prepare meals and disposable dinnerware to make prep and cleanup more manageable. Make sure to communicate regularly with your contractor to stay informed each step of the way to hopefully anticipate any additional inconveniences.

Mismatched Expectations

Misunderstandings and miscommunications can lead to dissatisfaction with the final result. With that in mind, clear communication between homeowners and their contractors is essential to make sure everyone is on the same page and has the same expectations. Before you even begin your project, outline your expectations in detail and share them with your contractor. It’s also a good idea to ask your contractor for a written proposal that clearly outlines things like the scope of work, timeline, and budget. Regularly checking in on this proposal can help address any concerns or discrepancies early on before they become issues.

Kitchen remodeling will inevitably come with certain challenges, but with careful planning and proactive problem-solving, you can navigate through them successfully without too much of a headache. Setting realistic expectations, maintaining open communication, and keeping a flexible mindset in the face of setbacks will set you up for success when tackling any obstacles along the way. At Kitchen Solvers, we pride ourselves on providing a Pleasant Remodeling Experience. Providing you with a beautiful, functional kitchen that enhances your home and makes your dreams come true is our number one goal—and we make it our priority to make that process as pleasant as possible.

The post Dealing with Common Kitchen Remodeling Challenges appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Things to Consider Before Starting:

Before you dive head first into any renovation, it’s important to consider your needs, preferences, and possible budget constraints. You should ask yourself questions such as…

• What are the main pain points in my current kitchen layout?
• How do I envision the functionality and flow of my new kitchen?
• Which kitchen styles and designs appeal to me?
• What is my budget going into this remodel and am I prepared for unexpected expenses along the way?

Once these questions are answered and you have a clear understanding of your overall goals and possible limitations, you can get into the planning of your remodel.

Budgeting Tips:

When it comes to your budget, setting a realistic one is essential. Here are some tips to help you budget your remodel effectively.

• Do your research – Get quotes from multiple contractors and suppliers in your area so you can fully understand the cost of materials and labor across the board.
• Prioritize – Think through your goals and define your non-negotiables. Once you have those determined, allocate a larger portion of your budget to those things. If high-quality countertops are important to you, assign a budget to those from the beginning so you’re not overspending at the end.
• Contingency funds – With any home project or renovation, there will always be unexpected expenses along the way. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10-20% of your total budget for unforeseen costs.
• Consider financing – If your budget feels a little tight, it might be a good idea to explore financing options such as a home equity loan or lines of credit. Depending on which remodeling contractor you choose, you may have some financing options through them as well.

Hiring the Professionals:

Although DIY projects are becoming more and more popular and they can be tempting, hiring experienced professionals can actually save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Choosing the right professional can make or break your remodel, so here are some tips on how to choose.

• Research – Always look for licensed, insured contractors with lots of experience in kitchen renovations not just home renovations. Kitchens bring a whole different set of needed skills so it is important to find a contractor who knows what they’re doing. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, and make sure to take a look at their online reviews. The best research you can do is learn from people who have worked with them in the past.
• Get quotes – Gather quotes from several contractors and compare their pricing, timelines, and references before making a final decision. This allows you to get a good understanding of what costs are static, and which ones might differ from one company to another.
• Check credentials – Always verify the credentials of any of the professionals you are considering hiring. Check their licenses, certifications, and insurance coverage to make sure all your bases are covered.
• Communicate – Don’t shy away from clearly communicating your expectations, budget, and timeline to the professionals you hire. Maintain open communication throughout the project and make sure they are communicating well with you too. This helps ensure that everything stays on track and that everyone in on the same page.
• Review contracts carefully – Before signing any contracts, take time to review them carefully and understand the entire scope of work, payment schedule and expectations, and any warranties that may be offered on the project.

If you follow all these considerations, budgeting tips, and hiring advice, you will find yourself well-prepared and equipped to take on your kitchen remodel with confidence. Take your time in the planning stages to make sure every detail of the remodel is thoughtfully considered and chosen. With careful planning and the right professionals by your side, soon you’ll be able to enjoy your dream kitchen for years to come. Of course, your local Kitchen Solvers is a great place to start when it comes to researching contractors and professionals who will work alongside you every step of the way to provide you with a pleasant remodeling experience.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Kitchen Remodel appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Design contractors have experience; and with that experience comes knowledge and expertise. They know about kitchen layouts, materials, design trends and fads, and can help you make informed decisions so your space is both functional, aesthetically pleasing, and timeless. They are also well-versed in the latest kitchen technology like appliances and energy-efficient lighting that can increase the functionality of your home as well as save you some money in the long run.

Another way a design contractor will help is by thinking through the big picture and making a plan that will work with your budget. If you are trying to plan a remodel on your own, a lot of times there are pieces you will forget that can have a large effect on your budget. This could make your project take longer than you expected if you end up having to put it on hold on it to spread out the cost. A design contractor can help you prioritize your design choices and help you find affordable materials and finishes that fit within your budget.

Additionally, a design contractor like the ones at Kitchen Solvers, will act as a general contractor for you and oversee the entire project from start to finish. They will coordinate with any subcontractors needed such as plumbers or electricians and make sure all those details are sorted thoroughly. This can save you time and stress and wraps all the costs of the project into one bill rather than trying to pay every contractor separately.

When choosing a design contractor, it is crucial to choose someone with a good reputation and experience. Read online reviews, ask for references, confirm licenses and insurance, and of course, make sure that they are a good fit for you and your project. Pay attention to how they communicate with you from the start and if you feel comfortable asking questions and they take the time to thoroughly explain things. You will be talking and interacting with them quite a bit throughout the project so you want to make sure the communication meets your standards.

Yes, a kitchen remodel can be an exciting and rewarding project. It might even seem like something you want to tackle on your own. However, hiring a design contractor provides valuable expertise, budget management, and overall supervision of the project so you can just sit back and wait patiently for the kitchen of your dreams. Kitchen Solvers would love to help those dreams come true and look forward to hearing from you as you embark on this exciting project.

The post Does My Remodel Need a Design Contractor appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Set a Budget

Like with any home project, it’s going to cost money. Before you get too deep into it, you’ll want to set a realistic budget. Consider your needs and goals for the remodel. Make sure you take into account your financial situation and think through if you’ll be using your savings, paying for it as you go, or if you’ll be financing the project. Be sure to include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses that may come up along the way.

Plan the Design

The design can be the hardest part of the remodel so it might be a good idea to get a professional involved. You probably have a good idea of what style or look you want, but when it comes to layout and how to create a functional kitchen, there is a lot that can go into it. You will have to make decisions on appliances, cabinets, countertops, and flooring and it’s imperative that you choose things that will work well together in the space. Lucky for you, that’s exactly what Kitchen Solvers is here to help with. We’re happy to sit down and talk through all of those choices with you so you know you’re making the right decisions.

Choose Quality Materials

Beyond the expertise that we can offer about kitchen layout and function, Kitchen Solvers wants to make sure you’re choosing high-quality materials for your remodel to ensure both longevity and durability. The kitchen is a heavily used space in the home so you want to make sure you are choosing materials that will stand the test of time. Choosing materials that are both functional and stylish is the way to go. Quartz or granite countertops, hardwood or tile flooring, and solid wood cabinets are a few materials that you’ll want to consider for you remodel.

Hire a Reputable Contractor

When choosing a contractor for your remodel, make sure to do your research. Look for someone who not only has experience in kitchen remodels, but also has a good reputation in your area. Read online reviews and ask your friends and acquaintances which contractors they have had good experiences with. Word of mouth goes a long way, and you don’t want to end up regretting your choice because your contractor will be your main partner along the way. Make sure you communicate clearly with your contractor from the start. Talk about your budget, expectations, and goal timeline early to make sure they understand them and are a good fit for your project. Regular check-ins and progress reports along the way can ensure your remodel stays on track. We might be biased, but these are things Kitchen Solvers will offer along the way.

Plan for Temporary Living Arrangements

Depending on the size and scope of your project, it might be a good idea to set up some temporary living space for the duration of the project. This could be as simple as setting up a temporary kitchen in another area of your home like a laundry room or bathroom. Or, if your budget allows it, you could rent an AirBnB or an extended stay hotel room so you’re comfortable. If you’re close with your neighbors, see if they’ll let you borrow their kitchen for some meal prep or invite you over for dinner a couple of times throughout the process.

Expect the Unexpected

Finally, as we already mentioned, there are bound to be hiccups and changes along the way. Be prepared for delays, changes, and unforeseen expenses. It’s impossible to know exactly what those things might be, but it’s important to set your expectations beforehand so you aren’t surprised by them when they happen. Having a little wiggle room built into your budget will ensure that when the unexpected happens, your project can continue and smooth over somewhat quickly.

By taking these steps and being aware of the general flow of your project, you can help ensure that your kitchen remodel is a success. Planning out your design, using quality materials, and choosing a contractor you trust and have clear communication with can be the key differences between a headache and a dream kitchen come true.

The post Steps to Ensure a Smooth Kitchen Remodel appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

However, exercising some discipline in the early stages of the project may have both you and your wallet happier with the final result. Selecting a floor layout that’s ideal for the floor space is one area where taking some extra time to evaluate the options will help your budget and satisfaction with the remodel.

Whether you’re planning a major makeover or just a few minor tweaks, the floor layout you choose for your kitchen or bathroom can have a significant impact on the construction costs and your satisfaction with the finished product. Before you make your final floor space decision, keep the following in mind:

Remember the Mechanics:

Kitchens and bathrooms, more than any other room in your house, have a lot of pieces that work together to form a practical environment. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical requirements exist in both rooms, and the more you change your current floor plan, the greater your remodeling costs will be. Moving a range or oven a long distance across the kitchen may require installing a new wire all the way back to your panel box, as well as extending gas lines to the new location. Although shifting appliances might improve floor space and make the floor layout more user-friendly, it’s important to be aware of hidden costs that can add to the overall cost.

Removing a wall to increase floor space isn’t always as simple as it seems; there may be numerous hidden mechanical lines that must be transferred to other walls or chases, each of which can add to the project cost. If your home is built on a concrete slab, large floor plan changes that affect plumbing drain lines can quickly drive up remodeling expenses when jackhammers and concrete saws are involved.

If you’re remodeling on a tight budget, a smart rule of thumb is to avoid making big alterations to your existing floor plan.

Be Realistic About Your Space:

If you’re renovating a kitchen or bathroom with a limited amount of square footage, be realistic about what you can fit into the given floor space. Commercial freezers, gourmet kitchen islands, and jacuzzi bathtubs are all fantastic, but if they take up so much floor area that the redesigned room becomes inefficient, you may be wasting a lot of your hard-earned money.

Your new kitchen or bathroom floor plan should be simple to use and navigate. If you’re not sure if something will fit in your newly refurbished space, make a footprint on the floor with a measuring tape and painter’s tape. On their websites, most building material manufacturers provide exact product dimensions. You should be able to walk through the room and work without hitting any barriers or feeling boxed in. Early in the planning process, consider your floor plan to ensure that the kitchen you end up with is efficient and functional.

Use Your Resources:

The resources available to gather ideas for your new kitchen or bathroom floor design are nearly endless. Look through interior design magazines, spend a few evenings browsing the websites of kitchen renovation companies, or set aside a weekend to tour the model homes in your area. To design kitchen and bath floor plans, home builders frequently utilize national design trends and architects who are up to date on the latest trends. While the kitchens and bathrooms you see may not be a perfect fit for your floor plan, they can be a fun way to get your creative juices flowing.

Ask the Professionals:

Even if you’re a seasoned DIYer, chances are you don’t have the same level of expertise in kitchen or bath floor planning as a professional remodeler or trained designer. These experts have completed countless kitchen and bath renovations and can offer educated advice on how to make the most of your given floor space. They’re also well-versed in local building and mechanical codes, which can have a significant impact on your floor plan and overall remodeling expenses.

It may be difficult to hold yourself back, but spending a little time at the start of the project to ensure you’re choosing the proper floor arrangement for your floor space will result in a kitchen or bath that’s enjoyable to use and doesn’t break the bank. We at Kitchen Solvers are more than happy to help you think through all these details at your complimentary consultation where we can start dreaming and designing your remodel with you.

The post Floor Layout – Tips for Planning a Remodel Around Your Budget and Available Floor Space appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

An excellent place to start is by evaluating kitchen renovation contractors. The truth is, you can buy the nicest kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, cabinets, and flooring money can buy, but if you employ an inexperienced remodeling contractor, you could end up with delays, bad craftsmanship, and a nightmare of a space. Here are some characteristics to look for in a kitchen and bath remodeling contractor.

Reputation

When looking for kitchen renovation contractors, you should take at least three into consideration. Don’t just pick the first one that comes up in an online search. Look for contractors with a good track record. If you choose to look for a contractor online, make sure to read online reviews. Two online tools for checking references are Google My Business and the Better Business Bureau. Always seek referrals from friends, family, and business associates who may have recently received excellent service from a contractor in your area. They may also know someone who has recently had work done or contractors with a lot of experience.

Contact the 3 remodelers you’ve narrowed it down to and request at least five references from previous clients. In addition, inquire about membership in your local builder’s association and obtain recommendations or satisfaction surveys from them as well.

Make contact with the references listed and ask them questions you’ve prepared in advance. Questions about workmanship, punctuality, meeting deadlines, site cleanliness, cost overruns, and their people skills are just a few examples. Verify whether the contractors provided an accurate estimate, stayed on schedule, delivered as promised, and were otherwise professional.

Licensed & Insured

Check to see whether all of the kitchen remodeling contractors you’re considering have the proper license and that it’s current. There are consumer websites that provide state-by-state information on licensing requirements, which can assist you in determining whether any of the contractors you’re considering are or are not following the state’s license standards. When a contractor comes to your house to give you an estimate, you can also ask to check their license.

The main issue with hiring someone who is not licensed is that in many states, your capacity to pursue legal action for damages is extremely limited or non-existent. Contractors who aren’t licensed are flying under the regulatory radar, which can cost you more money and cause huge headaches later on when it comes to finishing your renovation project.

Furthermore, the contractors you are considering should be fully insured in the event of an accident that damages your property or those on it. This is especially critical because the homeowner may be held responsible. Kitchen renovation contractors are required to have insurance in most states.

Estimates & Warranties

Reputable contractors understand that traveling to the job site, speaking with the homeowner, thoroughly evaluating the job, and providing a free, written estimate are all part of doing business. Every part of the kitchen and bath remodeling project should be costed out in that estimate. Payment timelines and agreed-upon completion milestones should also be included in the estimate.

Beyond that, the contractors on your list should provide a warranty on all workmanship and materials. Obtain written confirmation of all warranty-related offers and ensure that they are included in the contract. All procedures and coverage types should be thoroughly explained. This is vital information. Read it in full. It also might be a good idea to have an attorney look through the warranty.

Not Afraid of Questions

If they don’t directly answer your inquiries or don’t follow up on an unanswered question in a timely manner, this is a red flag. Demand that they respond to your questions with precise responses. If they give you unclear answers, you’re setting yourself up for trouble once your kitchen or bath remodeling job starts. All of your expectations must be satisfied, and you must have paperwork to prove it. If there are any projects that you can view directly, make sure to ask the contractors. They may have images of current jobs in a portfolio or on the internet, but that is insufficient. Most trustworthy kitchen renovation companies will gladly schedule an appointment for you to see a completed job in person.

The more knowledge you have about the kitchen remodeling companies you’re considering, the better. This understanding offers you an advantage when dealing with possible problems. It’s critical to locate the proper contractor for your renovation job before spending any money on building the kitchen or bath of your dreams. It will take some time to evaluate the contractors. However, in the long run, this process will save you time and money.

We want you to be as comfortable and confident in your contractor as possible. That means being informed about what kinds of qualifications you should expect. Of course, we hope you choose Kitchen Solvers!

The post Kitchen Remodelers – Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right One appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Question #1 – Is the company reputable and licensed and insured?

This is the first question you should ask the remodeling contractors you are considering, because if the answer is no, they shouldn’t be working in your home. Even if they offer to do the project for a great price and seem to have a good reputation, the liabilities you incur are usually not worth the savings. If an uninsured and unlicensed contractor damages your home, they may not have the financial strength to take care of the repairs. Even worse – your homeowner’s insurance policy holder may not pay for any damages caused by kitchen or bathroom remodeling contractors without proper paperwork. Make sure to look at reviews and be sure that everything is up-to-date before hiring any contractor.

Question #2 – What experience do you have with this type of remodeling project?

Remodeling contractors often have different skill sets and while one might have done a great job on your neighbor’s garage or backyard shed, that doesn’t make them qualified to remodel your kitchen or bathroom. Ask potential contractors for a list of past projects they have completed that are similar in scope to what you have in mind. Don’t hesitate to contact prior customers for their thoughts on contractors work quality, adherence to schedule, and overall competence. The same can also be true when considering the dollar amount of a project – a $30,000 kitchen remodeling project often requires a different level of expertise than one that costs $3,000.

Question #3 – Will there be a written and signed contract?

Unfortunately, the days of sealing a deal with a handshake are long gone. Regardless of how friendly the remodeling contractors you are interviewing might seem to be, or how good you feel about them, those sentiments can change during the course of a project. There should always be a signed contract that spells out the complete scope of work, the financial terms, and an approximate completion date for the job. Ask your kitchen remodeling contractors to be specific and precise in detail so you can make a good evaluation and decision.

Question #4 – How are extras and change orders handled?

When remodeling, no one likes to have their budget higher than expected. Ask the kitchen and bathroom contractors you are interviewing to thoroughly explain what their price includes, and even more importantly, what it does not include. If their price has allowances for fixtures, appliances, floor covering, and other finishes, make sure you have a firm understanding of how much they are and how they work.

You should also explain to the contractors that no changes or extra work that may cause the agreed upon contract price to go higher are to be done before you are given a cost and approve the addition. Keep in mind that kitchen and bathroom remodeling isn’t quite the same as new construction. There are often unanticipated issues lurking that may affect the price of your remodeling project.

Question #5 – How long will the remodeling project take?

Even if you have another bathroom, or an outdoor grill that can be used for cooking, remodeling a kitchen or bathroom can be a disruption to your daily life. Unfortunately, this minor inconvenience can be escalated drastically if you don’t see any progress being made on the project. Or perhaps days go by without any contractors showing up for work. Experienced kitchen remodeling contractors should be able to provide a reasonably accurate schedule for project completion when giving you a cost estimate. However, it’s also important to remember that unforeseen factors can delay your project for a few days and any changes you make during the course of construction may also add to its length. Open communication between homeowners and contractors is critical.

Question #6 – How will we communicate during the remodeling project?

Perhaps the most important component of successful remodeling projects is constant communication between homeowners and contractors. Contractors should be accessible for answering any questions or addressing any concerns that homeowners may have and there should be someone in charge when they’re not available. You should expect that your phone calls or emails to the contractors will be returned in a prompt manner. Kitchen remodeling contractors concerned about customer service will often walk the project with clients on a regular basis during the duration of a lengthy project in order to ensure progress and good communication.

Hiring kitchen or bathroom remodeling contractors that answer these questions satisfactorily should go a long way toward ensuring you have a successful and enjoyable kitchen or bathroom remodeling project.

Kitchen Solvers

Now that you know which questions to ask when trying to find a kitchen remodeling contractor, it’s finally time to hire an expert. And, that’s where Kitchen Solvers can help. Our design team can help you craft the perfect blueprint and put it all together for you. Contact us today to learn more!

And be sure to check out our helpful blogs, General timeline for your kitchen remodeling project for new cabinetry and How Much is a Kitchen Remodel Going to Cost Me? if you are considering a remodeling project for your kitchen.

The post Six Questions to Ask Contractors for Your Kitchen or Bathroom Remodeling Project appeared first on Kitchen Solvers.

Research their Experience

Regardless of how you came across your possible kitchen remodeling contractor, it’s always imperative to do research. Look up the contractor to make sure they are well established and have verified credentials. Search for reviews and complaints. You want to familiarize yourself with who could possibly be remodeling your kitchen.

The Interview Process

Deciphering between contractors can be quite simple if a job interview is conducted. Call or schedule an interview with the companies who you have a desire to work with and ascertain exactly how they can meet your kitchen remodeling needs. You want to make sure your possible contractor is qualified, has a good reputation, personable, and will deliver high-quality work.

Beyond the Brochure

Do not let the professional brochure given by each contractor which shows off their services and depicts photos of your dream kitchen fool you. These sales brochures have been carefully crafted to appeal to you the homeowner. Filled with photos that were taken from ideal angles with professional lighting and possibly stock photos to showcase the kind of work the contractor claim to do, the brochures may not be 100% accurate. This is why we encourage you to ask for photos of actual, completed remodeling projects and material samples for things like cabinet and drawer materials. Take note of how the samples you are given compare to the pictures in the brochure.

Appearance and Listening

Another determining factor is how the salesperson appears and acts. Are they dressed professionally with a logo on their shirt? This could be an indication of the quality of work you’ll get. If they are dressed professionally, it’s a sign that they care about their presentation. Not only gauge whether they are really listening to your questions and concerns, but make sure they are taking the time to answer them in detail. You are building a long-term relationship. Make sure the person who you eventually hire is someone with whom you’re comfortable with and can trust.

To help ease you in the process of selecting a kitchen remodeling contractor read our blog Things You Need to Know When Hiring a Remodeling Professional. Our blog at Kitchen Solvers is made easily accessible to help aid you in your journey for your dream kitchen. Check out some of our others postings like General timelines for your kitchen remodeling project for new cabinetry.

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