Kitchen remodels are one of the most popular projects for those who want to update their homes. Because many families find that they gather frequently in the kitchen area, having a kitchen that is attractive, open, and incorporates the latest appliances and materials is vital for the enjoyment of their home. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel for your home, there are plenty of suggestions on what you should do. However, there are also numerous things you should NOT do to ensure a successful project. Here are just a few.
Don’t Skimp on Materials
Budgets are definitely a consideration for your remodeling project. However, if you find that you need to save money in certain areas, the materials you use should not be one of them. Using high-quality granite on countertops and backsplashes will make your kitchen beautiful and the durability of the material will make it last a lifetime. If you try to skimp and instead use laminate or tile, you’ll likely regret your decision down the road when your counters start showing stains, scratches, or burns. If you can’t afford granite in your kitchen remodel budget, you might want to consider holding off until you can save more and do the project right.
Don’t Try to Cut Corners
Many homeowners think they can save money by doing all the work themselves and avoid hiring a contractor or installer. Unless you’re in the construction business or have years of experience in remodeling projects, this is probably a bad idea. If you’re installing granite countertops, you need to work with a skilled installer to insure proper fit and design. Granite is an expensive material, and the last thing you want is to damage it while trying to install it yourself, or end up with an improper fit that needs to be redone later. If you don’t have the money to hire a professional to help you with countertop installation, you should wait on the countertop portion of your project until you do.
Don’t Choose Dark Colors for a Small Space
Kitchens that are open to the rest of the home are gaining in popularity, but some older homes simply are not set up this way. If you have a small, closed-off kitchen, you can still do plenty to remodel and update it. Granite is a great way to make a small kitchen gorgeous, and the high-quality material can take a starring role in your cozy cooking area. However, you should avoid dark granite countertops or backsplashes in small kitchens as they can make the area look even more cramped. Instead, choose light beige, grey, or white granite countertops to create the illusion of more space.
Don’t Forget About Resale Value
If you don’t plan to stay in your home for the rest of your life, you need to keep an eye on resale value when you are planning your remodel. This means using high quality, in-demand materials, such as granite, that will hold its value well and be appealing to potential buyers. It also means choosing colors that are basic instead of trendy. For example, your family may think that blue countertops look cool, but a buyer may think otherwise. It’s always a good idea to go with beiges, browns, and greys when making granite color choices, especially if you plan to put your home on the market in the near future.
Are you planning a kitchen remodel for your home? If so, keep in mind that skimping on materials, cutting corners, using dark colors in small spaces, and disregarding resale value are ways to ensure your project will NOT be a success. Work with professionals and choose high quality materials like granite and you’ll be satisfied with your kitchen for years to come.