A Guide To Renovating Your Kitchen: Part 1

The kitchen is the heart of the home, it’s where the family gathers and friends are always welcome.

When it comes to home renovations, kitchen redesign ranks as one of the most costly, time consuming, and rewarding projects you can do to your home. It also has the second largest return on investment. “A kitchen remodel returns only 66 percent, on average," says Chris Dossman, a real estate agent with Century 21 Scheetz in Indianapolis. ”Kitchens are one of the first things homebuyers look at.”

There are multiple parts to consider when planning your kitchen, because of this, we're breaking this topic up into a 2-part series.

Permits

The details of this project are the most important part to making your dream kitchen a reality.

One detail homeowners may not recognize are regulations that govern a home improvement project. It’s important to have your plans reviewed by your city or township, particularly if you live in a historic or conservation area or within a homeowner association. You must also inform the building inspector if you are altering, walls, doors, or windows in your home. So, be sure that all the proper permits have been obtained before beginning your project.

Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the most expensive and largest component to a kitchen renovation. The two main characteristics you’ll need to consider are the look and the functionality of the cabinetry. You’ll want to think about organization solutions, such as pull-out spice racks, gadget garages, or pantry organizers.

Wood or laminate are the most popular choices for finishes, wood however can be the budget buster. Laminate is significantly less expensive and offers more contemporary styles in your kitchen. In terms of durability, laminate is slightly less durable. If it chips, it can be difficult to repair and may need to be replaced.

The box portion of the cabinet should also be scrutinized. Wooden boxes are harder to come by and are much more costly than it’s counterpart melamine, which is a sturdy composite material made of resins. Although it does chip, it’s stronger than paperboard. Wood and laminate cabinetry come prefabricated, which is the least costly solution. Semi-custom and customized cabinets will be more expensive.

Backsplashes

Backsplashes are in the line of vision while at the sink washing dishes or while cooking at the range. That makes the backsplash a big focal point in the kitchen and is a good opportunity to kick up your kitchens style.

From traditional tile to trendy glass - and shiny metal to rustic wood - there is seemingly no end of choices for kitchen backsplashes today. “Tile is still the most popular backsplash material, with natural stone a fast-growing second.” says John Morgan, 2013 National President of the National Kitchen and Bath Association.  

Stay tuned for more on kitchen remodeling in the coming weeks!