While a kitchen remodel that brings your vision to life can be one of the most exciting tasks a homeowner can undertake, it also comes with its fair share of learning opportunities. What Pinterest pages and home renovation TV shows often fail to capture is just how quickly expectations can be turned upside down. From kitchen design pitfalls to timelines that stretch further than expected, there’s no shortage of considerations to keep in mind.
That’s where the NeighborBuild team comes in. Below, let’s explore some of the most common things that homeowners often reflect on once everything sanded, built, and complete.
#1: Moving Appliances Can Be Costly
Every kitchen remodel is different, in both size and scope. Swapping countertops and cabinets is significantly different from a full gut remodel. The true cost of remodeling extends beyond materials to include any behind-the-scenes work that must be completed to make the kitchen functional. This includes tasks like rerouting water lines, adding electrical outlets, and modifying vents.
The truth is, the cost of moving appliances can add up quickly. To keep costs down, opt to keep appliances in similar spots.
#2: Timelines May Be Longer Than Expected
You may have heard the saying “Plans are one thing, but reality is another.”
This saying rings true for many situations, but especially when it comes to kitchen remodels. The truth is that when walls and floors are opened, timelines can easily change. From outdated wiring to leaky pipes, there’s no shortage of reasons why a kitchen remodel ends up deviating from the original timeline.
At NeighborBuild, most of our kitchen remodels take a total of three to four months to complete, from design to the construction stage. The construction stage is the longest, at around six to ten weeks. A reliable kitchen contractorwill keep you in the loop from start to finish, keeping unexpected changes at a minimum.
During construction, some families prefer to leave while others prefer to stay. We will work with clients to ensure they are able to use their home as much or as little as they would like during the process; sometimes assisting with a makeshift living space in the basement, for example.
#3: Kitchen Workflow Is Essential
The kitchen triangle rule often involves:
- There should be no obstructions or obstacles between the three points
- Each triangle line should be no less than 4 ft and no more than 9 ft
- When combined, the total distance should be between 13 ft and 26 ft
While the relevance of this rule in modern kitchens is sometimes debated, it remains a valuable reminder of the importance of proactive planning. This is one of the many reasons why we always recommend that homeowners prioritize the design stage of their kitchen remodel. At NeighbourBuild, we believe that kitchens should be intuitive, functional, and ergonomically designed.
#4: More Expensive ≠ Better
More expensive designs don’t automatically translate into better choices. While it’s easy to fall in love with the quartz countertops, rosewood finishes, and oversized islands found in interior design magazines, the reality is often less radiant. These luxurious design choices may be stunning in concept, but won’t always look the same in everyday spaces.
When it comes to kitchen installations, it’s always best to keep an open mind. In fact, many homeowners are surprised to see the difference that a few simpler changes can make.
Simplify Your Remodel with NeighborBuild
At NeighborBuild, we’re your local renovation experts. For over 10 years, we’ve been supporting homeowners throughout the Ottawa Valley region in building and renovating their dream homes. Eager to get started? So are we. Reach out to our team today for a free quote on your stunning new kitchen renovation.
