The Sunday Mail
Considering a do-it-yourself (DIY) kitchen remodel to refresh your space?
No matter where your remodelling budget lands, keep it in check with these best-practice tips and recommendations.
Get inspiration and create
your list of must-haves
While painting walls can be a fast and easy update, a kitchen remodel is not something you will often do. So even if you DIY, it is important to take time to strategise the style and layout you will be happy with for years to come.
Do you like clean, modern lines or the rustic farmhouse look? Make a list of must-haves to focus your new-kitchen vision.
Set your budget
The last thing you want is to run out of money mid-way through your kitchen renovation, so it is vital to determine your “all in” kitchen budget. Determine your priority list.
Properly pricing out and comparing all of the components that go into a DIY kitchen remodel versus a professional remodel gives you a clear understanding of where your money will be going and if your budget is realistic.
Look for ways to save
Whether you choose a DIY kitchen remodel or opt to bring in the professionals, there are always ways to save on a kitchen renovation. Enlist family and friends to help with demo or installation to avoid labour costs. Look for product rebates on everything from flooring to appliances.
Shop for hardware and lighting that looks luxe but does not break the bank. Skip the custom high-end cabinet option by choosing in-stock cabinetry, or keep the cabinets and swap out the doors.
Gather quotes
You may need a professional for portions of your DIY kitchen remodel, especially electricians, to ensure the electrical wiring is up to code or plumbers to connect the faucet. Get at least three quotes. Key items to save for during a kitchen makeover:
Cabinetry
Cabinet style helps define and set the tone of your kitchen.
◆ For a fast DIY refresh on a budget, paint your cabinets.
◆ Reface, do not replace. If they are salvageable, keep your existing cabinets and reface them.
◆ If you are going full reno, know that the cost of new cabinets in a kitchen makeover can vary greatly depending on whether you choose in-stock (most economical), semi-custom or fully custom – the priciest option.
Flooring
Pick flooring based on who is walking on it (human and fur babies) and how often.
◆ Do you have hardwood floors in fairly good condition? Refinishing them yourself can save a lot.
◆ Tile is durable and easy to maintain. But installing it can be labour-intensive and challenging to lay and grout the tile evenly. But that cost varies based on square footage and materials.
◆ Laminate flooring looks like tile, hardwood, or stone but is extremely DIY-friendly. Composed of easy “click and lock” interlocking pieces, laminate is an excellent choice for a DIY kitchen remodel.
Countertops
The material options for kitchen countertops are extensive, so it is important to not only know what style fits with your kitchen remodel but the price point for each type. In-person shopping is best, so you can get the look and feel of options, including marble, laminate, granite, corian, wood and quartz.
Appliances
If your existing appliances are in good condition and fit aesthetically and physically in your kitchen remodel, you can cross this cost off your expenses list. But if they need replacing, a kitchen appliance package with a refrigerator, stove, dishwasher and microwave makes it easy.
Things to consider when remodelling your kitchen
- Know how you will navigate. A kitchen needs to be both visually appealing and functional. Does your current kitchen layout work, or are you squeezing by each other to get to the fridge? Make sure the layout of your kitchen renovation makes sense.
- Do you have adequate prep space? Do not skimp on countertop space. Having enough surface area to prepare meals is essential for kitchen efficiency.
- Have you properly protected the rest of your house?
A kitchen remodel is messy. Using a tarp or plastic sheeting, seal off the kitchen from the rest of the home.
This will keep dust and debris contained.
- Are you keeping to your budget? Create a budget and be flexible to stay on track. — freshome
