Your kitchen should work for your family. If it doesn’t, a remodel may be in order.
A major remodel changes the entire layout and features new cabinets, countertops, flooring and appliances. It also includes any structural changes and plumbing or electrical upgrades. Contact Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY for professional help.
A minor remodel improves aesthetics but doesn’t change the layout or add new features. It usually doesn’t require permits, and it typically costs less.
Removing old cabinets, countertops, and flooring sets the stage for your kitchen remodel. This first step can range in scale from swapping out faucets to rerouting plumbing or electrical systems. To ensure a successful renovation, it’s important to consult experts who can navigate local building codes and design a layout that optimizes functionality and aesthetics.
Demolition can be dangerous work, especially when working around utilities. It’s critical to shut off the water supply and locate gas or electrical breaker panels before beginning any work. Demolition may also release hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead paint, and rotted wood. While it is possible to do this portion of the remodel on your own, it’s generally best left to professionals who understand how to safely and efficiently take down walls and reroute plumbing and electrical.
Once the walls pass inspection, it’s time to finish them as per your project plan. Hanging, taping, and finishing drywall takes time and requires proper tools to avoid compromising structural integrity. It’s also a good opportunity to set aside any salvageable materials that you can recycle or sell to help cut costs.
Rough-In
Rough-in is a major stage of kitchen remodeling that creates the skeleton for all other segments. It involves laying out the pipework, electrical wiring, and HVAC ductwork, all following the plans laid out during the design phase. Plumbers, electricians, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals work together during this step to install the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems in your new kitchen.
During this stage, your plumber will mark the locations for sinks, tubs, toilets, and appliances and ensure that they align with the floor plan. They’ll also lay out the piping for water supply lines and drainage systems, and install venting and sewer pipes. Your contractor will use laser tools to ensure accurate drain and supply line heights, which saves you time and money in the long run.
The mechanical rough-in process typically includes installing safety features such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, and emergency shut-off valves. In commercial buildings, this includes putting in plumbing for restrooms and cafeterias, electrical wiring for office workstations, and HVAC ductwork for climate control.
Once the plumbing and electrical rough-in is complete, your professional contractor will schedule an inspection. This is a required step that will ensure your remodel is up to code and can proceed. This process is relatively quick, and there may be a small fee involved in some locations. The inspector will evaluate your completed rough-in work and make recommendations for any changes or repairs.
Cabinets
Cabinets are the building blocks of your kitchen and determine the overall look of the room. Whether they are simple slabs of wood nailed together or expertly designed to fit your home layout, cabinets add style, function and value to your house.
Many homeowners choose custom cabinets to meet their specific needs and preferences. They can be made to accommodate specialty storage solutions like spice organizers or pull-out pantries; crafted from durable materials like hardwood and solid-core plywood; or enhanced with detailed trim, molding and hardware options.
The right cabinets can help create a smoother workflow in your kitchen. Drawers that keep your cooking utensils and pots within reach of the stove save you from having to bend down and dig through layers to find what you’re looking for. In-cabinet accessories can help organize everything from plastic-ware to pot lids.
A customized cabinet can even be a great way to make meal prep easier, which encourages healthy eating habits. Having a place to store cleaning supplies keeps items out of reach from children or pets and can be secured so they aren’t misplaced.
Budget-friendly stock or builder-grade cabinets are available in industry-standard sizes and designs. However, they are less expensive than custom cabinets and don’t promise the durability that a professional-grade solution provides. Consider refinishing your existing cabinets to update the look and extend their lifespan. Refinishing is a relatively inexpensive process that involves sanding and/or stripping the old paint and stains to reveal fresh wood and new hardware.
Countertops
Countertops are one of the most integral components in kitchen remodeling. They provide a platform for food prep, act as the base of your cabinetry, and can make or break the overall design of your kitchen. Because of this, it’s important to choose a material that checks off as many boxes as possible when it comes to functionality, durability, and style.
A variety of materials are available for countertops, ranging from the budget-friendly laminate to marble and granite. Your choice will be based on factors like how often you cook and entertain, how much space you have, your preferred color palette, and whether you want to create a sleek, contemporary look or a warm, rustic feel.
Another factor to consider is the amount of wear and tear you’re expecting on your countertops. If you plan to cook a lot or have a busy household, you’ll likely need a surface that is heat- and stain-resistant.
Depending on your preferences, DIY countertop solutions like peel-and-stick makeovers and contact paper transformations may be an excellent option for you. They’re easy to apply and remove without causing damage to the underlying surface, and they offer an array of designs that complement every design style. If you want something more permanent, however, tiling is a cost-effective and beautiful solution. It’s essential to note that tiling requires meticulous skill and experience, so it’s typically best left to a professional.
Appliances
The choice of appliances is one of the most significant decisions in kitchen remodeling. Whether you choose to invest in new energy-efficient models that promise long-term savings on utility bills, or classic designs that blend seamlessly with your design style, you will be living with these kitchen fixtures for many years. As a result, it’s important to make this decision early in the process so you have the time to shop around and find the best deal.
Luxury kitchen appliances are designed to enhance your cooking experience with smart functionality and superior performance. From a dual-fuel range that offers gas precision and electric baking to a dishwasher that uses condensation drying technology to eliminate the need for rinsing, these premium features help you achieve professional results at home.
A variety of color options are available for your refrigerator, oven, stove, and dishwasher. Bold hues create a statement that elevates the aesthetic of your kitchen. Classic finishes, such as stainless steel and black, can be combined with other colors to create a balanced and unique look. For a more whimsical feel, consider retro-style appliances that evoke the charm of bygone eras. These are an excellent option for adding personality and character to your kitchen without overspending. Also consider custom appliance organization options like pull-out shelves and lower drawers with dividers to reduce clutter and streamline cleaning and cooking routines.
Finishing Touches
A kitchen remodel transforms a functional workspace into a modern and beautiful centerpiece of your home. A professional contractor can help you create a customized design that suits your lifestyle and tastes. By carefully planning the layout, choosing high-quality materials, and adding storage solutions that maximize space, you can have a kitchen renovation that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
The final touches are what set your new kitchen apart from the rest. Backsplashes and cabinet hardware are small but important decisions that add texture and color to the space. You’ll want to choose colors that complement your countertops and cabinets but also reflect your style. For example, subway tiles work well in most kitchens, but you could also opt for a patterned tile or a glass backsplash to make a bold statement.
While you’re choosing finishing touches, remember to plan for how you’ll store your cooking utensils, pots, pans, and other supplies. The more organized your kitchen is, the easier it will be to find what you need when you’re in a hurry. Consider a pantry, a corner solution (like Lazy Susans), or a pull-out trays for cabinet doors to keep your items neatly organized and easy to access. Then you’ll have more room to entertain guests, cook dinners, and enjoy the space you love!
