There are numerous considerations when deciding it’s time to remodel the kitchen and bath. The pleasure of a remodel is returned back to you time and time again, given the amount of time we spend in these rooms.
Proper planning will avoid the traps that could make it stressful.
Outline your project into two categories, the wish list and then the hard budget. Have a good attitude, like making the the plan will be exciting and fun. Gather as much information as possible before setting up your budget. You can add and delete once you have researched all possibilities. Talk to other people who have recently remodeled.
In your research where do you go first? The Home Depot, Expo, Loews…Yes, why not. It will be a good idea to go see new products and talk to designers up close and personal. There are many factors that will determine what you want and will need. Oh, and try not to be led by designers and their motivation to sell. Consider what you would want and what will work best for you, your home and lifestyle. Getting these points clear up front will be very important.
An excellent resource for consumers is the National Kitchen & Bath Association with over 40,000 trade members. According to NKBS, “it’s the largest non-profit organization in the US and Canada offering resources to consumers with it’s mission to promote professionalism and ethical business practices and provide leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath industry”. On the NKBA web site there are very good resources to guide you through the various steps of a remodel.
Among the resources NKBA offer include, a do it yourself workbook, how to hire certified professionals and planning guidelines to name a few. With so much new information on green/ sustainable designs you’ll need to brush up on what is practicable and current in today’s trends.
I’ve had the opportunity to be a guest speaker at the NKBA’s Kitchen/Bath Industry Show & Conferenceaka KBIS, the world's largest trade show dedicated to the kitchen and bath industry. This show is amazing, you’ll find the latest and greatest of kitchen and bath products. Open only to trade and media. It is a good resource to ask your designer, do they attend? And are they certified? If they are certified you will know they are up to date with the latest in design and product features.
After you do your homework and are ready to make the plunge follow these tips:
Get plenty of samples and live with them for a while
Make decisions when you are well rested
Keep complete records of the entire project
Take before, during and after pictures
Ask questions, then ask more questions
Get referrals from people who have used the product or service
Have a back up plan; (in case there is a delay in the toilet you ordered)
I have encountered remodel 'bumps' in a project and it usually comes down to miscommunication. Don’t get upset, bumps will happen. However, I find that if you keep a good spirit and friendly manner you are more likely to be served in the same way. You know the 'catch more bees with honey' scenario. A simple door I changed in my kitchen required five changes before it was done right. The sixth time was the charm and now I am very happy with how it turned out.
A good movie to see before a renovation project, The Money Pit.
What is on your wish list?
I hear avocado is making a come back!
Enjoy,
George
