There’s a lot of good advice available on how to prepare for a kitchen remodel. Spend more time planning, add 15% in unforeseen expenses to the budget, and so much more.

But planning for a kitchen remodel and living through one that’s underway are two very different experiences. Today, we’re discussing what to do and not do during your kitchen remodel.

Are you making any of these kitchen remodel mistakes?

Before we demolish any expectations, let’s ensure you’re avoiding common mistakes leading up to your remodel:

  • Confirm your kitchen triangle. An efficient workflow is the most important functional feature of your upcoming layout.

  • Have your appliances chosen and ready (or nearly ready). Your most essential equipment cannot be a TBD.

  • Discuss your lighting with the designer. A minimum of two light sources should have already been plotted out. 

We’re off to a great start! Check out more of these kitchen remodel mistakes to move forward with confidence.

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

A kitchen remodel can take one to three months. It all depends on the size of the kitchen, the number of features you want to update, and the contractor’s schedule. Some larger or luxury kitchens take four to six months, all in. 

Creating a clear, comprehensible plan with a contractor is everything. Defining the scope of work, setting and revisiting the schedule, and sharing expectations are all part of a successful remodel. 

What to do during a kitchen remodel

It’s time for the loud, messy part. Here are a few hints for surviving a kitchen remodel.

DO establish boundaries. 

Communication breakdowns are by far the biggest cause of conflict between homeowners and contractors. Have a system or process in place for staying in touch and getting project updates. 

More importantly, agree on key areas right when work begins. Where everyone will park, available restroom facilities, where materials and equipment will sit, and more. 

DO prepare to be without a kitchen.

Many families choose to vacation or stay with loved ones during the more involved phases of a remodel. Specifically, those that are extremely loud or impact utilities. But unless you plan to stay away for the entire project, set yourself up as though you’ll be without a kitchen for the foreseeable future. 

Create a temporary kitchen in another area with a hotplate, microwave, toaster oven, or any other portable equipment your family prefers. Keeping your old refrigerator in the garage is useful for these times as well, although by this point, you may wish you had an outdoor kitchen. 

DO maintain a physical barrier between construction and living spaces.

Staying on top of cleaning and debris removal is another important topic to discuss with your contractor. 

Even when the crew is gone, keep barriers such as plastic sheeting in place. HEPA air scrubbers and other partitions may be necessary to keep mess from impacting the air quality and cleanliness in the rest of the home. 

What NOT to do during a kitchen remodel

Impatience and a lax attitude toward safety are two of the biggest mid-remodel don’ts. 

DO NOT accept suggestions that go against your gut.

It’s great to keep an open mind while collaborating with professionals; many will have brilliant ideas you never dreamed of. However, don’t compromise and go along with a change of plans that genuinely doesn’t align with your vision.

If your contractor or designer brings up switching to another material or fixture because it’s on sale or they think it would look better, it’s okay to say no. Many small decisions come with doing a remodel. No matter how overwhelmed you are, be honest with yourself about living with someone else’s choices.

DO NOT push to get ahead of schedule.

There’s rarely one way to execute a remodeling task. Corners can be cut, but at a cost. Avoid coercing the crew to get it done faster. It will make tracking the project and getting the best quality result much more difficult. 

You should also mentally prepare for a delay or two. Sometimes inclement weather or a permit problem can shut things down temporarily. This is the average experience and nothing to feel excessively anxious over.

DO NOT let pets and kids have the run of the remodel.

A safe worksite is the homeowner’s responsibility, too. Giving little ones and their furry companions access to active work zones, even if “they’re just watching” increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries. 

Even when the crew isn’t around, keep pets and children away from the remodeling area and any places where materials and equipment are stored. Remember that you will be responsible for any damage or replacements needed. 

The Designery is on your side.

Coordinating a kitchen remodel and knowing what to expect during renovation isn’t a beginner’s task. If you’re dealing with uncertainty around material access, the right craftspeople for the job, and other remodel decisions, reach out to The Designery. 

“I had my entire kitchen remodeled by the Designery. I can tell you how fabulous the entire team was, my kitchen looks absolutely amazing! I would recommend anyone who wants a new kitchen to go to The Designery–they are professional, they are detailed, and they do an absolutely amazing, fabulous job. Thank you for making my house look new again!”

If you want fabulous results like Theresa’s, contact us for a free consultation today.