What to Expect During Your Kitchen Remodel

After imagining what it would be like to have a new kitchen, you have finally pulled the trigger and found a kitchen remodel contractor and negotiated a fair price for the project. All that planning is now coming into fruition, and there’s a date circled on your calendar for the first day of the remodel.

Here’s what you can expect throughout the process.

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?

Like any other project, this will really depend upon the scope of the remodel ahead of you. Are you having a complete gut job done in your kitchen or are there simple upgrades being made? While many estimates go from six to 12 weeks, discuss with your contractor a realistic timeline for when they think they will be done. This will also take into account any holidays coming up.

Preparing for a Kitchen Remodel

Prior to the contractors arriving at your home, make sure you are ready and prepared with the following tips:

• Make plans to go without a kitchen. Perhaps move your refrigerator or get a small, temporary refrigerator to store perishables. Also, consider that you may be spending more money on eating out during this time — this is a great time to use those gift cards or coupons you’ve been saving. Or, freeze meals ahead of time that can be easily microwaved.
• Consider purchasing paper plates and disposable utensils since you won’t have access to your dishwasher or sink. Find a new place where you will be eating your meals if your family typically eats in or near the kitchen.
• If you have young children or pets who might get in the way or will be bothered by the noise, think about if you need to have them stay with a trusted friend or family member during the day.
• Move all of your cooking supplies, food, and appliances out of the kitchen before the start date. Talk to the contractor about moving larger items, such as the dishwasher, oven, and refrigerator — depending on the project, it may not be necessary. For items that you know you will have to use regularly during the remodel, store them where you can easily access them.
• While the contractors are working on your kitchen, will it block access to any other spaces, such as the laundry room or garage? If so, plan ahead for how you will be able to continue using these places.
• Place drop cloths or old area rugs in heavy traffic areas to protect your floors.

During the Kitchen Remodel

• As your new appliances, tile, countertops, vents, and other supplies arrive at your home, be sure to inspect them thoroughly. You’re spending your hard-earned dollars for these items, so make sure they are in good condition and exactly what you ordered.
• Be in constant contact with your contractor. Ask for updates on how the project is coming along and any issues they may be running into.
• Give yourself a chance to get out of the house and away from the construction area. Have a home-cooked meal with a friend or get out of town for a little bit if you can. 
• Expect that not everything will go according to plan. The weather might impact the project, emergencies arise, or the contract might discover some obstacles when they take down a wall. This should be accounted for in your contract, but for your own sanity, expect the unexpected and try to roll with it.

After the Kitchen Remodel

The day has come — your kitchen is finally done and you can have your space back! But before the contractors leave, ask for a thorough tour of your new kitchen. Have them explain what work was done, any issues they ran into, adjustments that were made to the original plan, and what you can expect in the future.