Kitchen Remodel Tips From an Expert Contractor

A new kitchen remodel with white counters, gray cabinets, and a gray and white tiled backsplash.

An outdated kitchen can put a strain on your home. You deserve to love where you live, and sometimes that requires renovation. We’ve worked with dozens of homeowners to revamp their kitchens, so we’re going to share our top ten kitchen remodel tips to make the most of your space. Ready to fall in love with your home all over again?

 

Why Remodel Your Kitchen?

The best home improvement project to increase resale value in Pennsylvania is a kitchen remodel. A new kitchen can make all the difference when it’s time to sell your home. The average return on investment is about 75% for a full remodel and 67% for an upgrade.

But it’s not all about the money. It’s also about creating a beautiful home tailored to you and your family. Kitchen remodels can add better functionality to the heart of your home, creating a space you truly love.

Everyone Deserves a Perfect Kitchen

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Kitchen Remodel Tips to Know Before You Start

The kitchen remodeling process can often feel overwhelming, but not with KSW Construction LLC. We work with you every step of the way, so you’re never left in the dark. Our ten kitchen remodel tips will help you stay on track and design a space you adore.

Tip #1: Decide on a Remodel vs Refresh

Our first tip is to decide on the scope of your project. Do you want a total remodel or just an upgrade? As noted above, the main difference between a remodel vs refresh is the return on investment. A refresh is cheaper now, but you’ll get less return when you sell.

Think about the main things you want to change in your kitchen. Some items—like cabinets or windows—can be easily upgraded. Other alterations, like a new layout, require a complete renovation. Both are solid options, but pick what’s best for your budget and timeline.

Tip #2: Plan Your Layout Carefully

This is arguably the most important tip. And to start, you need to get real. Take a look at your current kitchen’s layout and notice what you like and don’t like about it. What annoying things pop up when you’re cooking? What items are missing that would make the space better? Don’t hold anything back.

Think about the relationship between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. These are the three most commonly used areas of your kitchen. Ideally, you will position these in a triangle so it’s easy to move from one to the other, with short distances between each. Don’t forget to factor in proper clearances around the kitchen, so you don’t interrupt the flow of movement.

When you’re ready to start the kitchen remodeling process, decide on a priority for your space. Whether it’s cooking, storage, or entertainment, this will determine the best layout for you.

Tip #3: Set a Realistic Budget

Our next kitchen remodel tip is to set a realistic budget and, most importantly, stick to it. It’s that simple. Plan ahead so you have a good idea of what you want out of your home improvement project, and then pick a budget that can achieve that goal. Create a spreadsheet, check it frequently, and don’t look back.

It may be helpful to write a list separating your needs from your wants. This helps you prioritize pieces of the project so you know where the majority of your budget should go. Here’s how most remodeling budgets breakdown:

  • Cabinets: 30%
  • Appliances: 20%
  • Electrical and plumbing: 15%
  • Installation and labor: 15%
  • Counters: 10%
  • Other: 10%

We recommend setting aside a little extra for unexpected costs that pop up. It always happens! At least this way, you’ll be prepared. You should also factor in the costs of eating out or staying elsewhere, depending on how long the remodeling will take.

While not everything needs to be done by a kitchen remodeling contractor, you might feel a stronger peace of mind knowing your remodel is being handled by experts. Some do-it-yourself renovations might be the way to go for a budget-friendly option, but keep in mind the risks and time commitment of DIY when you’re in the planning phase.

Beautiful Kitchens Don’t Always Require Big Budgets

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Tip #4: Choose Quality Materials

Now it’s time to put on your designer hat and get to work. First, you need to choose your materials. This is where most of your money is going, so make sure to take your time picking quality options. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Countertops: quartz, marble, granite, soapstone, or wood
  • Cabinets: Oak, cherry, walnut, or engineered woods like plywood
  • Flooring: tile, laminate, or hardwood
  • Backsplashes: tile or ceramic

Pick your materials based on your budget and maintenance needs. Some options, like a marble countertop, are more prone to stains, while other materials, like plywood cabinets, are easier to paint and finish. Don’t worry if the world of options seems overwhelming at first. KSW Construction LLC can guide you through the selection process and offer expert advice on options that align with your style and budget.

A new kitchen remodel with white cabinets and counters.
An expert kitchen remodel with white counters, white cabinets, a black and white backsplash, and new light fixtures.
Newly remodeled kitchen showing a gray backsplash, white cabinets with glass doors, and white countertops.
An expert kitchen remodel with gray cabinets and a gray backsplash.
A kitchen remodel with white cabinets, a white backsplash, and granite counters.
A kitchen remodel with a black and white checkered floor.

Tip #5: Don’t Forget About Lighting

Lighting can make a major difference, and it doesn’t cost too much extra. Our best kitchen remodel tip is to not ignore the details. Things like lighting fixtures and windows can completely transform your space from outdated to elegant and modern.

With this in mind, consider upgrading your current light fixtures to create a statement feature in your kitchen. Also pay attention to natural lighting. Your kitchen remodel is a great time to replace your windows. This won’t just brighten up your space, but it’ll also save you money by improving your energy efficiency.

Tip #6: Maximize Storage Space

Making the most of your space is key, especially if you have a small kitchen. When designing your remodel, remember to incorporate extra storage wherever you can. This can include building out storage under the sink, adding shelves above your fridge and microwave, or even extending the height of your cabinets all the way to the ceiling.

You can also upgrade your shelving for statement storage. Consider replacing traditional cabinet doors with glass ones. This lets you show off your dishes while opening up the space.

Tip #7: Add a Splash of Color

Color is in, according to our list of home improvement trends for this year. And there are so many creative ways to get colorful in your kitchen, from painted cabinets to a fun backsplash. We recommend picking a bright focal point and keeping the rest of your kitchen neutral to complement it.

You can also change the perception of your kitchen with colors. Make your space feel larger with lighter, pastel colors. On the other hand, you can make a space feel smaller with dark hues.

Tip #8: Take Your Time With Appliances

Appliances shouldn’t be an afterthought. When picking your new fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and more, there are several factors to consider:

  • Size
  • Style
  • Unique features
  • Noise level
  • Energy efficiency
  • Smart technology

Make sure your appliances are large enough for your needs and match the style of the rest of your kitchen. For an upgrade, pick options that have handy features like adjustable shelves or temperature controls. Also test out the noise level. Loud appliances can quickly put a damper on your dinner party.

Another small but important kitchen remodel tip is to plan ahead for outlets. Smaller appliances like toasters, mixers, and blenders need to be plugged in. Make sure you have outlets in convenient locations, so they’re easy to use when you need them.

Tip #9: Keep Cleaning in Mind

Behind all great meals is a messy kitchen. Just like taxes, cleaning is an inevitable part of life. Thankfully, some features can help make this process easier.

For counters, non-porous materials like quartz and granite don’t absorb as much liquid, making them harder to stain. Glossy, laminate surfaces are easy to wipe down, just like stainless steel appliances! Similarly, cabinets with a sleek front (rather than intricate patterns and molding) don’t gather as much dust.

Installing a flush-set sink with a large basin will make it easy to wipe crumbs right into. It also leaves enough room for your large pots and pans to soak. In addition, flat glass stove tops are much easier to clean than gas burners.

When choosing the details of your remodel, remember to think about maintenance and cleaning, along with style, cost, and functionality.

Two KSW Construction LLC crew members install cabinets into a kitchen remodel.

Tip #10: Work with a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Our last kitchen remodel tip is to call a professional contractor to complete the work. As we mentioned above, some smaller projects like painting are perfect for the DIYer. But for the major renovations, let us do the heavy lifting (literally).

What do we add to the kitchen remodeling process?

We can work with you from start to finish. Just share your vision for the space, and we’ll coordinate with our designer to put together an estimate. Then we’ll get started on the renovations, working with our partners in plumbing and electrical so you can enjoy a fast and seamless remodel. Before you know it, your new space will be ready!

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