Steps To Remodel A Kitchen

You’ve decided to remodel your kitchen, now what? While the prospect of having a shiny new space can be exciting, we’re sure you have a lot of doubts and questions. What are the steps to remodel a kitchen? Can you do it by yourself or will you need to hire professionals? How long will it take? One by one, we will give you all the answers.

The kitchen is the center of the home and everyone’s favorite place to gather around and spend time. That’s why we’ve compiled all the best advice from our contractors and designers. In order to make this journey as easy as possible and your kitchen the new star of the home, we’re sharing expert tips.

Before we get started, the first thing you should do is visualize. Can you see your dream kitchen? What kind of design do you prefer? What would you like to change? Consider things you dislike about your kitchen now. Is it a lack of storage, poor functionality, or having a small sink?

Once you decide on the look, the next thing you will want to do is to think about how involved you want to be in the process. Are you a DIY-er? Or do you want to hire help? You can hire labor-only contractors and purchase your materials. Another option is to hire an all-inclusive company to build your dream kitchen so all you have to do is make decisions. In this article, we will talk about specific steps to remodel a kitchen and how to make this process stress-free and efficient.

Outline your Kitchen Remodeling Needs and Set Goals

After you visualize your ideal kitchen space, the next step is all about figuring out what exactly you want to do. Imagine a layout that will work perfectly for your needs and family. Are you remodeling your kitchen with the existing footprint, adding footage to it, or moving to a different room altogether?

Do you want to relocate the range or the sink, knowing it means moving plumbing and gas lines? Are you converting to an open plan? Consider whether it would include moving a bearing wall because this would entail more structural work and additional costs. You should start by defining the scope of work.

In order to prepare for your kitchen renovation in NYC , get inspired by browsing Pinterest boards and home improvement websites. Save ideas into a folder, or create a vision board. This can help figure out what kind of textures, fixtures, and materials you want in your kitchen. Later, you can show details you’ll want to implement to the professionals that will be working on your remodel.

This step can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the extent of planning and decision-making involved.

Set a Budget

Budget and scope are closely connected and usually change a few times during the remodeling process. Often, things will come up and you will try to find a balance between what you want, what you can afford, and what is functional in the space. The more detailed you are, the better off you will be when talking to professionals about the steps to remodeling a kitchen. Don’t forget to include appliances, countertops, hardware, flooring, lighting, and accessories in your wish list.

If you’re wondering how long kitchen remodel takes, it can vary depending on a lot of factors. The key ones are the size of your kitchen, the work you want to be done, and your contractors. Some experts gauge that kitchen remodels generally take between one to three months.

Budget-wise kitchen remodeling can cost you anywhere from $25,000 to $250,000. Deciding factors are time and labor, finishes, permits, filing fees, property type as well as raw materials. The best thing you can do is put in some time to do your research.

When you figure out the general idea, you can start drawing up a plan for the remodel. The biggest challenge will be choosing a layout. Focus on where you want your kitchen island to be and how the cabinets will be placed. This will give your team of professionals an idea of what needs to be done, and make it easier to define all the steps to remodeling a kitchen of your dreams.

Setting a budget for your kitchen remodel is an essential step. It typically takes a few days to establish a realistic budget based on your needs, desired quality, and available funds.

Hire Professional Kitchen Designers

If you haven’t already reached out to a contractor, you can do so when your budget, layout, and overall design are finalized. Now that we have reached the turning point of the process, hiring a good professional is one of the significant steps to remodel a kitchen.

There is a professional out there for all the steps in kitchen remodel, from quartz countertops to custom kitchen cabinetry. Experts are available to help guide you with everything from permits, contracts, space planning, budgeting, choosing finishes and fixtures, shopping, ordering materials, and managing your project from start to finish.

You might be tempted to purchase materials yourself to save some money in the long run but this can cost you time and big bucks if things go wrong. Homeowners buying their materials should beware of shipping, storing, measuring, and matching them.

Any money saved can quickly be used up to pay for additional labor or need to purchase replacement materials to fix a measuring or ordering mistake.

Finding and hiring professional kitchen designers can take a few days to a couple of weeks. It involves meeting with different designers to ensure you find the right fit for your project.

Ask your friends for referrals and do good old research to find the best professionals for your specific project. See how they describe their work and check their portfolios to see if they have a proven record of successful apartment renovations. Read reviews customers left about their work too.

A good rule of thumb is to get at least a few estimates that include the timeline. Discuss your plans with each contractor to get some ballpark estimates and find out if you are on the right track. You might need to readjust your budget and expectations.

It's never a good idea to go for the low-ball bid when hiring help for your renovation, even if you are trying to do it on a budget. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Low estimates may indicate that the contractor plans on using cheap, low-quality materials or is underqualified and thus desperate for work.

Once you’ve picked an experienced contractor that’s going to assist you in taking the steps to remodel a kitchen, write up a contract that defines the scope of work and a payment schedule.

Make a checklist for your contractor and go through them and ask any questions you may have before signing an agreement. Remember to set aside at least 5% of your original budget as a contingency plan for all those “what ifs” that may arise as the project is ongoing.

Obtain Necessary Permits and Approvals

In a step by step kitchen remodel, there is one common hiccup homeowners come across that catches them off-guard. And that’s the various approvals and the times needed to get the project started.

If you are doing just minor work and alterations in your kitchen, such as changing the floors, repainting, or installing cabinets - you’re good to go without a permit. But any major remodel, like installing pipes, doing electrical work, or adding a room requires a permit.

This type of renovation should be handled by a licensed professional and approved by the city. The permits necessary for kitchen and bathroom remodels are usually the ALT2, which must be filed by a PE or RA. On average most project approvals can take from 2 to 4 weeks.

Prepare the Space for Construction Work Before Remodeling

Once the paperwork is done you should decide whether you want to stay in your home while the remodel takes place. You might prefer to stay with friends or rent an apartment. Usually, when thinking about the steps to take when remodeling a kitchen, people forget this one.

While you don’t necessarily need to move out during the renovation, it’s important to plan ahead and figure out how you will handle meal prep. If you choose to stay, you could try setting up a temporary kitchen, stocking your pantry, or getting a mini-fridge.

Before demolition starts you should move and store your appliances to minimize clutter and protect them during the rough work. The next phase will include protecting the site surroundings from debris and dust. Don’t forget to get a large container or dumpster to store all the debris so it doesn’t just end up laying around. Preparing the space for construction work usually takes a day or two. Once this is done the demolishing can begin.

During the demo phase, you will finally get rid of old appliances, flooring, and cabinets that are out of style. Consider donating or reselling functional parts of the kitchen. This can help you save up on waste removal or even make a few extra bucks.

Since demolition is very physical and hard work, it’s always a good idea to leave it to the professionals. There is always a chance you may find a few surprises while working on your project - like damage in the walls or floors, faulty wiring, etc. With a team of professionals by your side, you won’t have to worry.

Choose Your Fixtures and Materials

After the demo, we’re on to the more exciting steps to remodeling a kitchen. It’s time to choose the fixtures and materials that will make up your upgraded kitchen. We love advising our clients during this step, knowing that it determines the overall style but also the functionality of the space.

Selecting fixtures and materials can take a few weeks, as it involves researching, visiting showrooms, comparing options, and finalizing decisions.

From countertops to cabinetry, flooring to backsplashes, the materials and fixtures you select will define the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. But they will also impact its durability and practicality. Before you make a decision, it’s good to think about the features that are important to you and your lifestyle.

Are you a passionate chef who needs a top-of-the-line stove? Do you like organizing soirees and social gatherings so you need plenty of space? The answers to these questions will have a huge impact on your choices.

Apply Structural Changes, Electrical and Plumbing Work

The next in kitchen remodel order of steps is the structural work. Depending on your remodel plan, this may involve modifying walls, adding or removing partitions, or expanding the kitchen's footprint.

For structural changes, it’s always best to hire skilled professionals. Understanding the complexities of construction, building codes, and regulations is of utmost importance. At Atmosphere Kitchen & Bath, we work with a team of experienced contractors who will ensure that your structural changes are executed safely and efficiently.

Once the framing work is complete, attention shifts to the essential elements of electrical and plumbing systems. Skilled electricians will have to meticulously plan and install new wiring, outlets, and lighting fixtures to meet your specific needs and design preferences. While plumbers will handle the ins and outs of pipe installation and rerouting to ensure that your kitchen's plumbing system operates smoothly and efficiently.

In addition to electrical and plumbing work, this is the perfect opportunity to update the HVAC systems. Our team can easily assess your kitchen's needs and recommend appropriate HVAC solutions, whether it's installing range hoods, exhaust fans, or adjusting the existing ventilation system.

This step can take several weeks, depending on the complexity of the changes required and the extent of electrical and plumbing work involved.

Install Cabinets and Countertops

One of our clients’ favorite steps in kitchen remodel is the installation of cabinets and countertops. By this stage, they are ready to see the final look of their space and their dream kitchen come to life.

Since these items are the stars of the kitchen design, it can be tough to choose the cabinets and best types of kitchen countertops. Experts say that cabinets take up the majority of the remodeling budget for the kitchens. That’s why it’s important to have professionals install them.

They will ensure that all cabinets are securely fastened, doors and drawers operate smoothly, and countertops are properly sealed for longevity. Experienced installers will always measure, cut, and install your chosen countertops for a perfect fit for a stunning final result. Installing cabinets and countertops typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks.

If you want to make your kitchen really pop, consult a designer and pick kitchen hardware ideas that will elevate your place.

Install Appliances and Fixtures

With countertops and cabinets in place, the next steps to take when remodeling a kitchen are installing appliances and fixtures. From refrigerators and ovens to dishwashers and range hoods, it’s important to make sure each appliance is properly connected, vented, and positioned for optimal performance.

In addition to appliances, fixtures such as sinks, faucets, and lighting also play a significant role in kitchen design. For example, careful selection of lighting can make your kitchen appear much bigger than it actually is. Whether you want an abundance of ambient lighting or task lighting to enhance your cooking adventures, make sure your team turns your vision into reality.

The installation of appliances and fixtures can usually be completed within a few days, assuming all necessary preparations have been made.

Final Inspection and Touches

At last, we’ve come to the final steps to remodel a kitchen. If you are working with a good contractor, they will likely provide a cleaning crew that can make your kitchen spotless in no time. Most projects will need a little refining, so after the major works are done make sure to inspect everything and make a list of things that were forgotten or need fixing.

Your contractor may need to come back to finish these, so make room for it in your timeline. To minimize the possibility of snags like this you may want to visit the building site daily and check up on things.

After the project is complete, other steps to remodeling a kitchen may involve official inspectors looking over the place and making sure everything is up to code.

Kitchen Remodeling Steps FAQ

A kitchen remodel can be exciting but also challenging. With so many decisions to make and considerations to keep in mind, it's natural to have questions along the way. In this section, we will address some of the frequently asked questions about steps to remodel a kitchen to provide you with expert tips and guidance throughout the process.

How to Do Step by Step Kitchen Remodel?

Here are the kitchen remodel steps that you need to follow for a successful transformation of your space:

Make a plan and set goals: Determine your goals and overall vision for the remodel. Create a detailed plan and design that includes layout changes, fixtures, materials, and finishes.

Set a budget: This will help you decide on the scope of work for the contractors, which materials you’ll choose, and where you need to make compromises.

Hire professionals: Find the best contractors and designers for your needs and budget and they will help you acquire permits necessary for the remodel.

Demolition: Remove existing cabinets, countertops, appliances, and other elements to prepare for the remodel.

Structural Changes: Make any necessary structural modifications, such as removing or adding walls, and expanding or reconfiguring the kitchen space.

Electrical, plumbing work, and HVAC: Install or update electrical wiring, outlets, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and HVAC according to the new kitchen design.

Cabinets and Countertops: Install new cabinets and countertops to enhance storage and functionality while adding visual appeal.

Appliances and Fixtures: Choose and install appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers, as well as fixtures like sinks, faucets, and lighting.

Finishing Touches: Add the final details, such as backsplashes, trim, and decorative elements, to complete the aesthetic and functional aspects of your kitchen.

Remember, the specific steps and their order may vary based on the unique requirements of your project and the guidance of professionals assisting you.

What Are the Steps in Remodeling a Kitchen?

The steps in remodeling a kitchen typically involve planning and design, demolition, making structural changes, electrical and plumbing work, installing cabinets and countertops, adding appliances and fixtures, updating flooring and walls, and applying finishing touches.

In What Order the Renovation of Kitchen Should Be Done?

The general kitchen remodel order of steps should be:

Demolition
Structural Changes
Electrical and Plumbing Work
Cabinets and Countertops
Appliances and Fixtures
Finishing Touches

Remember, the specific steps and their order may vary based on the unique requirements of your project and the guidance of professionals assisting you.

What Should Be Installed First in a Kitchen Remodel?

In a step by step kitchen remodel, it's generally recommended to install the cabinets first, followed by countertops, appliances, and fixtures. This sequence ensures that cabinets are securely in place before countertops, appliances fit seamlessly within the cabinetry, and fixtures can be properly connected.

Where Do I Start When Planning a Kitchen Remodeling?

When planning a kitchen remodeling project, start by assessing your needs and goals. Usually, it’s very helpful to schedule a consultation with professionals to get advice and refine your design, select materials, and make a detailed scope of work.

When Renovating a Kitchen Should I Do the Floor First?

In most cases, it's best to complete the flooring installation after other major elements like cabinets and appliances have been installed. This approach protects the flooring from potential damage during the installation of heavy items and ensures a seamless finish.

How to Remodel a Kitchen for Beginners?

If you're a beginner in kitchen remodeling, it’s important to focus on one area at a time to avoid overwhelming yourself. Take your time with each step and seek guidance when needed.

Consider starting with small changes or updates before tackling a full-scale remodel. Remember, working with experienced professionals can greatly simplify the process and help you navigate the complexities of kitchen remodeling successfully.

Create Your Dream Kitchen with Atmosphere Kitchen & Bath

Ready to remodel your kitchen? Look no further than Atmosphere Kitchen & Bath. With our expertise and dedication to quality, we offer comprehensive kitchen renovation services to transform your space into the kitchen of your dreams. From initial planning and design to meticulous installation and finishing touches, our team will guide you through every step of the process. Discover the benefits of working with us and bring your vision to life.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your kitchen remodeling journey with Atmosphere Kitchen & Bath.

Conclusion

In conclusion, kitchen remodeling is an exciting project that allows you to transform your kitchen into a functional and beautiful space that suits your lifestyle and preferences. By following the kitchen remodel steps from our contractors and designers, you can ensure a well-planned and efficient renovation process.

A remodeled kitchen will not only be more beautiful, but it will be more functional and raise your home’s market value if you choose to resell. Remember, thorough planning, attention to detail, and working with experienced professionals can make all the difference. So, take the plunge, embark on this transformative journey, and create the kitchen of your dreams. Happy remodeling!

Steps To Remodel A Kitchen - 2023 Guide For NYC Apartment Owners