KMT Contracting Albany, NY

10 Things to Consider Before Remodeling Your Kitchen

May 14, 2023

An upgraded kitchen can add more functionality and value to your home. But the process of a Modular Kitchen can feel daunting. Even the experienced builder while remodeling faces some difficult moments. Kitchen remodeling work requires careful planning, only that way you can avoid the pitfalls of the work, and finally, you get a new and improved kitchen. Keeping your dream kitchen in mind, consider these 10 things before you start the remodeling.

1.Install an island

Some kitchens do not have enough space to install an island. Inspect the area first, and if it doesn’t have at least 36 inches, avoid installing an island. You can go for it if the kitchen has 42 inches, which is better, and 48 inches is ideal. If you finally decide to have an island, also consider electrical outlets. There should be two on each side.

2. Consider the electrical work

You can do the electrical work on your own, but it may not match the code requirements. You must understand the codes before installing the Electrical lines and switches. Here check out the most common electric code violations homeowners often do.

• Failing to protect the countertop electrical connection with a ground-fault-circuit-interrupter or GFCI. • Having 20-amp lights for appliance circuits • Not having enough electrical outlets on for the counter • Not having two 20-amp circuits for appliances.

3. Make schedule

If you are changing your old place into a Modular Kitchen, there’s a lot of planning to do. Have plumbing fixtures, cabinets, appliances, and other major things in hand before you start the remodeling. Also, measure everything before the installation of the island, cabinets, and appliances. Proper planning is important so you don’t spend extra money on the service.

4. Get a detailed layout

If you want an open kitchen, don’t think that demolishing any wall will do the job. Some walls are bearing the load of the roof, some aren’t. Know the details of the walls, and go through the house and room structure before breaking down the bricks. Many homeowners assume that the refrigerator, stove, and sink should stay in the same place, which is a mistake. Venting and plumbing are indeed very expensive to move, but it’s the best thing to do for your new kitchen.

5. Remember the ventilation

Enough outlet is important for every room in your home, and the kitchen is no different. Avoid relocating the cooktop without considering the ventilation. Most buildings do not require a ducted outlet for the cooking range, but experts recommend it. However, the duct should be small and straight. Consult with the service company, and if possible, get a window for natural light.

6. Install the cabinets wisely

Measure the condition of the kitchen before you order the cabinets. Are there square corners? Are there any leaning walls, or does the floor slope? If the answers are positive for these questions, then you have to think a lot before ordering the cabinets and placing them.

7. Choose practical and beautiful flooring

After the cabinets and ventilation, it’s time to change the flooring. Avoid choosing a style that can only end up in trip hazards. You can choose tile over vinyl if the house has elevation issues. However, tiles need another layer of plywood to make the floor stiff, and it prevents cracks on the subfloor. Ensure the existing floor runs under appliances and cabinets, or make a hole to patch the places.

8. Better lighting is important

A Modular Kitchen is great, but without enough lighting, it will look dull. Whether you choose to have natural or artificial lighting in the kitchen, make sure it provides enough illumination so you can see every corner of the place. You may not love the experience of working in the shadow, where cockroaches or a hair strand can fall into your cooking pot.

9. Take care of the details

Make sure the sink is installed in the right place, so you can access it after chopping veggies. If there is a tile wall between the countertop and the wall cabinets, make sure to verify the tile endpoint where it meets the kitchen window. Check the height of the wall cabinets, so you can reach them without using a stool.

10. Set up a temporary kitchen

While your main kitchen is still undergoing the remodeling process, you can set up a temporary kitchen. Mode the toaster, microwave, and refrigerator to another room. Start cooking on the outdoor grill, and you can wash the dishes in the bathtub. For the sake of your mental well-being during this time, try using plastic plates and cups for eating.

Conclusion

A Modular Kitchen is useful in many ways. You can change your old place into a new one, or have a better kitchen in your new home. Prioritize measuring the space and appliances, and opt for professional kitchen remodeling services.