A kitchen remodel includes a lot of to-dos, as it should to get the job done right. If you’re remodeling your kitchen this year, make sure you plan ahead and take your time. There’s no reason to rush such an extensive, important project. Here are a few of the most common kitchen remodeling pitfalls, and how to avoid them.
1. Your new appliances don’t fit.
If you wait to select, order, and install new kitchen appliances after the countertops and cabinets are put in, they may not fit. If that’s the case, your kitchen layout design may have to be altered significantly, and you risk losing valuable storage or workspace. Don’t get stuck (literally) with the wrong-sized appliances. Try this instead:
- Choose your major kitchen appliances before you finalize your layout (like your stovetop, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher).
- Carefully confirm all appliance measurements and dimensions before ordering.
- Double-check your return and exchange policy, in case you do need to make changes or swap something out after ordering.
- Confirm that the dimensions of your layout can accommodate all appliances before making final selections.
2. A new layout creates new problems.
It’s fun customizing the details of your kitchen remodel, but sticking with tried-and-true is the best bet when deciding on your layout. Working with an experienced local kitchen contractor can keep you on the right track. They can help you with important spatial considerations, like:
- Plan for foot traffic and workflow: Make sure your layout doesn’t box you in. Your layout should allow plenty of space for foot traffic around your kitchen island. Your appliances should be grouped in a way that makes it easy to prep and cook meals, and clean up after they’re served.
- Don’t reinvent the wheel: Start with what you like about your current or prior kitchen layouts. Use those as a starting point for your kitchen remodel layout, so you only make changes that create more space and more functionality.
3. You don’t have enough storage.
This is one of the biggest reasons people upgrade their kitchen in the first place. Be sure your remodel solves this problem for good. Include plenty of drawers and cabinets, and consider a kitchen island for more storage (and counterspace) that doubles as a seating/entertainment area. We like these kitchen storage tips from Teamwork Home Designs:
- Add pull-out shelves for pots and pans.
- Include vertical slots for cutting boards and baking sheets.
- Incorporate hidden trash and recycling bins.
4. “Small things” are actually a big deal.
Kitchen remodeling is exciting, and it can be tempting to rush through selections. But things like lighting, cabinet hardware, and fixtures can make your kitchen remodel worth it (or not). Think about it. Those things are what you’ll be seeing (and using) every day. Take the time to make sure they’re exactly what you want.
Don’t want to miss a thing? Work with us.
Prescott Pinnacle Construction are experienced full-service kitchen remodeling experts serving Prescott and Northern Arizona. We’re your project partner from start to finish, recommending the ideal layout changes for your space, goals, and future plans. We’ll guide you through the selection process, answering any questions as they arise. And of course, we’ll help you realize your dream kitchen with the highest-quality craftsmanship and materials available. Don’t dread working on your kitchen: look forward to the transformation. Contact us to start your project today.