Custom Kitchen Remodeling Checklist

The kitchen is a high traffic area in your home. It’s the place you prepare meals, catch up with family and entertain guests. Whether you are adding a new kitchen island or custom cabinets, it is always exciting to change the vibe in your kitchen. However, you want to make sure you are fully prepared for such a big project. Creating a checklist is a great way to prepare for any home remodel.

If you are unsure of what tasks to include, here is an example of a kitchen remodeling checklist.

1. Determine Your Budget

You do not want to make the mistake of overspending, so the first thing you should do is determine your budget. It is easier to narrow down your wishlist when you know how much you can spend. You can still do a little window shopping once your budget is set. This way, you have an idea of the cost of custom kitchen cabinets, counters, and other features.

2. Create A Wishlist

Once you settle on a budget, you can start creating your wish list. You may want custom cabinets for more storage space, or maybe you want granite counters with a matching kitchen island. Maybe you want custom white kitchen cabinets. It is important to keep an open mind when you are creating your wishlist. You may find your second choice offers a lower cost of custom kitchen cabinets or counters than your first choice.

3. Look Into Regulations

If you are making any structural, electrical, plumbing or mechanical changes to your kitchen, you are going to need to discuss the regulations with your local building department. If you have already hired a kitchen remodeling contractor, they may be able to look into the codes and permits for you. It is important to look into the regulations early because it can take several weeks for your application to be reviewed.

4. Choose A Season

You should figure out when you want your kitchen remodel to take place before you dive into your project. For example, the holiday season may not be the ideal time to plan a kitchen remodel, especially if you like to entertain guests during the holidays. However, the warmer seasons may work because you can spend a lot of time outdoors during the construction.

5. Draw Up Your Plans

It never hurts to draw up plans for your new kitchen before you hire a contractor. Contractors look at these plans to determine if they are right for your project. The plans should include everything from the measurements to the appliances to the layout. You may want to hire an architect or designer to ensure your plans are clear and detailed.

TIP: How To Organize A Kitchen Remodel With Minimal Stress

6. Hire A Contractor

The next task on your checklist is hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor for your project. You want to hire based on their experience, qualifications, and costs. It is also important to schedule an interview and contact their references, as the lowest bidder may not be the best contractor for the job. Remember to show them your plans so they have an idea of what you are looking for in a contractor. Make sure they service your area (for example, we do custom kitchen remodeling in Central Pennsylvania, including Harrisburg, Hershey, Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, Lancaster, York, and Reading) (see entire service area).

7. Consider Special Orders

Custom cabinets, counters, and fixtures are examples of special orders, and you need to place these orders as soon as possible. You want to ensure there is enough time for the customization, shipment, and delivery of these items. The sooner you choose and order your special items, the more likely you are to receive them within your timeline. Remember, the cost of custom kitchen cabinets and other items may increase if you need a rush order.

8. Close Off Your Kitchen

The last thing you want during your remodel is for dust and debris to find their way into other rooms. This is why you want to make plans to close off your kitchen before construction even begins. You can close off the kitchen with plastic sheeting or thick plastic tarps. If your kitchen has a back door or garage door, ask your contractor to use that door for entering and exiting your home.

9. Create A Temporary Kitchen

You are not going to be able to use your kitchen during the construction, but you can solve this problem by creating a temporary kitchen in another room. This could be the corner of your living room, separate dining room or home office. You do not need a lot of appliances, just a mini-refrigerator, toaster oven, and microwave. There are even coffee makers that can heat water for beverages and meals. Use a folding table as a temporary counter, and do not be afraid to use disposable dinnerware and utensils for several weeks.

10. Enjoy Your Newly Remodeled Kitchen

This is (of course) the best part! Invite friends and family over to see your new space. Let them admire the detailed design and celebrate your new kitchen with you.

TIP: Not all kitchen remodeling experts use American-made cabinets. Make sure to ask ahead of time – the last thing you want is for some paperboard cabinets imported from China.

This is (of course) the best part! Invite friends and family over to see your new space. Let them admire the detailed design and celebrate your new kitchen with you.

Get Started: Contact An Expert

A kitchen remodel may seem like a never-ending ordeal, but there are ways to prepare for the mess, chaos, and tasks ahead of you. If you stick to your kitchen remodeling checklist, and some of our other kitchen remodel survival tips, you can minimize the stress that comes with any remodeling project.

If you live in Central Pennsylvania (see entire service area) or the surrounding area and want a kitchen remodeler who’s focused on quality and builds their own kitchen cabinets from scratch, contact RM Kitchens and check one more item off your list. RM Kitchens specializes in custom kitchen remodels and cabinets, and can help your vision of a beautiful kitchen come to life in the Susquehanna Valley.