Here are the most commonly asked questions about kitchen remodeling – and their answers!
Am I required to get permits for my kitchen remodel project?
It depends. Check with your county or state government to make sure any and all permits and variances are in order before you begin your project. Many home improvement companies – including ours – will be able to take care of that for you. However, this is a required task to do, as failure to do so can lead to fines.
Of all the countertop surfaces, which is best for my kitchen?
Again, it depends. Consider the needs for your individual kitchen. Are you frequently cooking, or entertaining a large number of guests? Consider installing soapstone – this non-porous material can withstand any stain, even the “bad” ones such as red wine & ketchup. Does your kitchen get lighter traffic? Consider a natural stone, such as marble or granite.
Will my kitchen remodel be on budget?
Even in the best cases, it’s always good to allot an additional 10% of funds on top of the quoted renovation project. Unforeseen issues, such as structural damage, increased cost of materials, and potential pest control are all things that need to be factored into the total cost of the renovation.
What are some other things I should consider when putting together my remodel budget?
Consider the cost of labor in any remodel budget. A good rule of thumb to consider is that the cost of labor should equal half the cost of your materials. So, for example, if the cost of your materials is $30,000, an additional $15,000 should be set aside for labor, bringing the cost of the remodel to $45,000. An additional 10% of that cost – or $4500 – should be set aside for unforeseen expenses, bringing the grand total of the remodel to almost $50,000 – an expensive proposition, to be sure, but worth every penny.
