Home Improvement: Remodeling a Kitchen
Having the kitchen remodeled is an easy solution that can add significant value to the home. A remodeling project can be a simple process that cost nearly a few hundred dollars, or can cost tens of thousands to fully modernize many of the outdated components in the house.
Homeowners often select a kitchen remodel as the ideal home improvement solution for maximizing the benefits of the home. There are easy ways of remodeling the kitchen, as detailed below.
Planning the Project
One of the quickest ways to get an idea of exactly how much a kitchen remodel cost is to visit the local home improvement retail store. Many of them will have a variety of kitchen components on display, where the homeowner can compare the quality of appliances, counter tops and cabinets.
Simply write down the available prices on the types of components, cabinets, flooring, and counter tops you desire. Next, you can factor in exactly how much the labor will cost, which usually represents nearly 40% of the cost of the materials.
The Financing
By obtaining the correct numbers above, you can easily determine whether or not you can realistically afford to spend or borrow the money to have the outdated kitchen remodeled. It may require financing, or extending a line of credit on the equity of the home. You might be able to have the job performed in piecemeal, where the cabinets and counter tops are remodeled, but the floor is added at a later date. Check with the bank to determine exactly how much money can be borrowed on a home equity loan to begin the project.
Updating the Cabinetry
The cabinets in the kitchen might not need to be replaced, but simply re-faced. Instead of purchasing new cabinets, new doors can be added and the cabinet boxes can be resurfaced with a laminate or wood material. Many times the cabinets are still in good condition, and it is only the doors that are outdated.
Changing the Flooring
There is a large assortment of flooring options available when remodeling the kitchen. These include hardwood, laminate, linoleum, tile, polished concrete and even outdoor carpet. The linoleum fabricated today is far more appealing than the flooring in your grandmothers home. There is a huge array of laminates available that look identical to hardwood that hold up significantly better and have nearly no maintenance requirements.
New lighting
The quickest way to beautify any kitchen is to change out the lighting. This might include adding a ceiling fan with lights, recessed lights, sconces and even chandeliers. There is a huge assortment of available lighting to meet any budget.
Counter Top Material
Selecting the best type of counter top material can be challenging. There is a huge assortment of options available including granite, marble, tile, and synthetic materials in a variety of colors, styles and strengths.
Remodeling the kitchen is a phenomenal home remodel project that can transform the interior of the home. Some contractors will require a complete gut of the entire area, while others can simply add new components to the existing kitchen.
