Many people consider the kitchen to be the heart of the home. Remodeling this space is a worthy investment that, when done properly, can increase the home’s overall value. However, a number of factors may result in costly mistakes. The pros from Forever Builders, one of the top remodeling companies San Diego homeowners rely on for outstanding service and exceptional craftsmanship, suggest you be careful to avoid these common pitfalls.
Insufficient Planning
Depending on the extent of the remodel, the project cost can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Create a plan that includes all the desired features and determine the expenses for the needed changes. Take into consideration the cost of new or additional windows, structural changes, cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances plus any electrical, plumbing, and lighting requirements. Labor for demolition and construction are also factors.
Double-check measurements for the new floor plan, structural construction, and cabinet and countertop placement along with the space required for upgraded appliances. If you want new appliances, purchase them in advance to ensure proper fit. Along with devising a plan that includes aesthetic features, make sure to consider functionality.
Unsafe Insulation Removal
The type and extent of insulation in your kitchen walls should be a consideration. In older homes, the space might contain materials consisting of asbestos and fiberglass, which pose health threats if not handled and disposed of properly. Old insulation might also contain animal feces, dust, mold, and other contaminants that are also health hazards.
Wall Removal Problems
Prior to demolishing a wall, determine whether it’s a load-bearing wall. Walls often share weight-bearing loads with other walls and ceiling structures. Accidentally removing the wrong wall may cause other walls or the ceiling to sag or collapse. Consulting with an architect or construction contractor can prevent potential disasters.
In addition, removing drywall, plaster, and insulation may bring a number of features into view. Wall frames might contain air ducts, electrical wiring, or plumbing pipes. All of these must be diverted before completely removing the remaining structures.
Insufficient Power
Consider the number of additional major appliances you will have along with countertop devices that will be commonly used in the space. The new kitchen must contain the correct number of outlets and the appropriate circuitry to handle the electrical load. Modern-day portable appliances require more power than their older counterparts. Thus, if more than one device shares an insufficient outlet, breakers may trip, and the risk of having an electrical fire increases.
Choosing the Wrong Contractor
Choose a contractor wisely. Statistics indicate up to 25 percent of would-be professionals don’t have accreditation, state licenses, or liability insurance. Perform background checks and ask for references. Otherwise, the wrong contractor could cause significant cost overruns while not providing high-quality work.
You can avoid these kinds of mistakes by hiring experienced professionals to perform your kitchen remodel. San Diego homeowners can trust the Forever Builders team to guide them through every step of the remodeling process. From initial design to final completion, we’ll help you create the beautiful kitchen you’ve always wanted while keeping your costs within budget. To find out more about our exceptional remodeling services, give one of our friendly team members a call today at (833) 243-5624