Have you finally saved up enough money to start that kitchen remodel the missus has been nagging you about? All the DIY shows you’ve watched make it look quick and easy. So, how difficult can it be?
Many homeowners start kitchen remodels without doing the proper planning and end up needing an emergency plumber Melbourne and other Australian cities rely on in times of crisis. Planning is key to ensuring you don’t do more damage than good!
What To Consider Before You Dive into a Kitchen Upgrade
Kitchen upgrades and remodels can really change the aesthetic of a home. Additionally, if done correctly they can provide you with a lot more space and functionality. However, with water pipes and possible gas fittings, it can be risky to just start digging and ripping into walls or floors.
Very few people realize that some professional plumbing contractors actually offer kitchen renovation services and can save homeowners the stress of a botched job. If however, you’re confident with your DIY skills, there are a few pointers you should consider before you start the job.
Design Your Plan
Before any work is done, it’s important to discuss, design, and plan the way forward. Identify where critical pipes, cables, and fittings currently are and should be in future.
It’s smart to incorporate the established plumbing components as opposed to completely changing their location. If your plan involves moving any plumbing pipes or fittings, consult with a plumber.
Be Realistic About Your Skills
There’s a sense of pride that goes with building, renovating or upgrading any part of your home. However, it’s crucial to your success and safety to be realistic about the level of your DIY abilities!
When you’re drawing up a plan, list the jobs you can do comfortably and the ones where you need the help of a professional contractor. Get quotes, compare prices, and consider completion time frames before you decide on the perfect contractor for the job!
Plan Location of the Appliances
Are you replacing the existing appliances or will your remodel work around them? It’s important to know upfront which appliances you’re going to replace and what their dimensions will be. The last thing you want is to have your new fridge not fit in the space you’ve left for it!
As a rule of thumb, you should design your space around your appliances. This will ensure you aren’t left trying to cram a wide oven or fridge into a narrow space. You also won’t be left with unsightly gaps between appliances and cupboard spaces. Remember to leave space around your appliances for ventilation. This is crucial when you have gas appliances.
A few tips for choosing the right appliances include the following:
- Check features and technologies on offer
- Ensure the new appliances will be energy-efficient
- Measure exact dimensions and add extra space to ensure ventilation
- Research online product reviews to ensure you’re buying quality, durable products
Decide on The Theme and Décor in Advance
Remodelling the kitchen might involve adding or upgrading cabinets and appliances. It might also include knocking down a wall or two to create a dining area or a pantry. It’s crucial to know what the end goal is and what type of theme you want.
Are you planning to create a sleek, modern-looking kitchen with silver or black appliances and ultra-modern fixtures? Or are you planning to create a farmhouse country kitchen with the primary emphasis being on wood and traditional fixtures? Knowing what the design is will ensure you buy the right fixtures, paint and finishings the first time, instead of wasting money.
Shop Around for Quality Materials
Opting for cheap materials will cost you more money in the long run. Shop around for the best deals on quality materials, tiles, paint and fittings. Remember to take accurate measurements to ensure you budget for the right number and amount of materials.
Before spending a huge chunk of your budget on all new materials, review what you can repurpose. Opting to repurpose some of the appliances or cupboards will save a lot of money and minimise the workload!
Don’t Forget the Lighting and Ventilation
A crucial aspect to remember when you’re remodelling any space is the effect of the current lighting. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Does the current lighting provide adequate illumination in the space?
- Would the space benefit from an extra light?
- Would it be more effective to add lighting on or under some of the cabinets?
- If you’re adding a pantry, will it need a light?
- Does the space have enough ventilation?
- Can you add a window or two to increase ventilation and minimise the growth of mould?
- How would a strategically placed skylight in the centre of your new kitchen benefit the space?
Final Thought
Renovating or upgrading your kitchen provides you with greater utilisation of space. It can also create functionality that will make the space more user-friendly. Follow our simple tips to ensure you don’t waste money. More than anything else, speak to your plumber to ensure everything works according to plan!
