6 Key steps to planning your kitchen renovation
Oh, how I like to be in control in a reno; to know which trade will come first, and at what stage I need to get my paint brushes ready! I also prefer my renovations to go smoothly, and fast. So, consider this list for a kitchen or laundry reno if you want to have some control over the process.
Step 1. Get clear on your estimated budget & rough design ideas
· The budget will be adjusted as quotes come in and have you considering how much work to do yourself!
· Knowing some colours, products, and style you want now avoids rushed decisions later
Step 2. Know your appliances
· Know what sink, fridge, dishwasher and other appliances you want, and roughly where you want them.
· This will help a measure and quote go faster, as they don’t have to wait for these key elements in the design. It’s not the worst thing in the world if you don’t know yet; you can design for a universal size in the quoting stage, but it really does help to have them ready.
Step 3. Get your quotes / lock in your trades
Some of the trades can be done by you - it might be you measuring and booking an appointment with a flat pack service or booking a local cabinet maker. If it’s a busy trade time you might have to be prepared for weeks / months for custom joinery.
· Talk to cabinet makers about who will do the demolition
· When engaging the plumber and electrician, find them yourself or ask the cabinet makers to use their own. Make sure this is included in the cabinetry quote.
· If you’re getting new flooring – ask providers whether they prefer to install before or after the cabinetry. A quality flooring service will be able to do either, but it will impact your timing.
· Painters – this could be you, or it could be a professional.
· If using tiles for your backsplash: many tilers will quote via text message if you share a photo, give measurements, the tiles you plan to use, and the pattern you want to lay them in.
Step 4. Pre-Install
· Demolition time! If you’re doing it yourself, don’t touch the electrics or plumbing!
· Confirm colours, brands, handles etc
· 24 /48 hours prior to actual installation, plumber and electrician will need to close off power and water to things that are being moved
Step 5. Install day!
· The cabinetry install itself will take 1 – 2 days
· A stone bench will take 2 – 14 days afterward install to deliver and install separately. This was a sneaky surprise for my first install!
· Lastly (or a few days later) plumbers come back to seal the sink, tap, and dishwasher / washing machines
Step 6. After cabinetry install
· Splash back: If you’re having a tile splash back – they’ll come in after it’s all in and ready to go
· Painting could happen now if you haven’t done this already
· Lighting is finalised
This can all shift at the whim of you or your trades, however this gives a heads up if it’s your first kitchen / laundry renovation. Need help with any of this? Let me know and we can find the best way to support your next renovation.