When is the last time you walked into your bathroom and thought, “This is exactly the way I like it!”? Chances are, you can remember when your bathroom was new and exciting. But, as the years go by, you begin to notice things you don’t like about it anymore. Maybe there isn’t enough storage or perhaps the layout makes it hard to get ready in the morning.
The same can be said for kitchens. You may have fallen in love with your kitchen when you first moved into your home, but, over time, you may find that it no longer works for your family. There may not be enough counter space or maybe the flow from fridge to stove to sink doesn’t work well for you.
Whether you’re planning a bathroom remodel or kitchen remodel, it’s important to make a list of what you like and don’t like about the area you’re hoping to renovate. This way, you’ll be able to communicate what you want to your contractor.
Remodel Priorities
While you may be tempted to start your kitchen or bathroom remodel by choosing tile, paint colors, or cabinets, resist this temptation! Before you start choosing finishes, make a list of everything you don’t like about your space. Break your list down into three categories: repairs, functionality, and aesthetics. For example, if you’re planning a bathroom remodel, you may need to address water damage, install better ventilation, or rework the layout. In a kitchen, you may need to address electrical issues, add under-cabinet lighting, or install a better work triangle.
By starting with repairs, functionality, and aesthetics, you’ll avoid focusing on surface-level changes that drain your budget and leave you short on cash when it’s time to tackle structural, plumbing, electrical, or flooring repairs.
Existing Home Conditions
Many homes have been remodeled at least once, sometimes several times, over the years. Perhaps an addition was tacked on here or there. The plumbing or electrical may be original, or there may have been some modifications done. Floors may be uneven and walls may not line up. Homeowners considering remodeling Town Gate properties should weigh those existing conditions against the project’s scope, especially for work beyond paint. All of these issues can affect the timeline and cost of your remodel, so be sure to discuss them with your contractor up front.
Also, discuss any changes you’re considering that may involve moving appliances or plumbing. Whether you’re considering moving your range, laundry, shower, or sink, be sure to discuss these changes with your contractor. Moving these items may require changes to be made to your home’s drains, water lines, ventilation, and electrical.
Moisture damage is also something to consider in bathrooms and kitchens. If there are chronic moisture issues around your windows, doors, or appliances, discuss these with your contractor. You don’t want to install beautiful finishes, only to have them ruined by a moisture problem you failed to address!
Budget and Decisions
Speaking of beautiful finishes, resist the urge to skimp when it comes to remodeling! Yes, you should consider your budget when planning your bathroom or kitchen remodel, but don’t sacrifice quality for price. Instead, focus on areas where quality counts and where changes will be more difficult to make later: plumbing, electrical, cabinets, waterproofing, etc.
Be sure to plan your budget carefully. Determine how much you want to spend on materials, labor, permits, and so on. Be sure to leave some wiggle room in case unexpected repairs or conditions are discovered during the remodel.
Finally, try to avoid decision fatigue – covers at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6119549/. Rather than changing your mind repeatedly about appliances, cabinets, and finishes, put some serious thought into these decisions before breaking ground. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Permits and Disruptions
Before breaking ground on your kitchen or bathroom remodel, determine whether you’ll need to obtain any permits. Changes to your home’s plumbing, electrical, structure, and other mechanical systems will most likely require permits and inspections. While these inspections may add time to your project, they’ll ensure your remodel is up to code and that all of your home’s important systems are in good working order.
Also consider whether your remodel will impact your family’s day-to-day activities. Will you need to make arrangements for where to eat or prepare meals during a kitchen remodel? If you only have one bathroom, how will your family function during your bathroom remodel? Discuss these issues with your contractor so you can be prepared for any disruptions. Talk about dust control, noise, deliveries, access to your home, and more.
Kitchen Planning
Keep these tips in mind!
First, think about your needs. How do you use your kitchen? What kinds of meals do you prepare? Do you want to open up your kitchen to other rooms? If so, how will this impact the amount of seating and storage space you have? How will it impact traffic patterns? Answering these questions will help you make better design decisions.
Think about storage. Where do you store pots, pans, dishes, and other items? How can this be optimized in your new kitchen? Consider deep drawers, pull-out pantries, corner cabinets, and other creative storage solutions.
Bathroom Planning
Keep these tips in mind!
Think about moisture. Bathrooms can be very small spaces packed with lots of finishes and fixtures. Properly managing moisture in your bathroom is essential, especially here in South Florida! Discuss proper waterproofing and ventilation options with your contractor.
Think about lighting. Rather than a single overhead light in your bathroom, consider layered lighting that will eliminate shadows.
Think about functionality. Could you benefit from more storage space near your bathroom vanity? Slip-resistant floors? A larger shower?
