Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating Your Kitchen in Hamilton
Posted on May 27, 2024
Kitchen renovations in Hamilton are a great way to add more functionality to your home while also increasing your property value. However, it’s crucial that things get done right the first time, as mistakes in this area can be costly. For help throughout your project, contact the team of professional renovation contractors at Rose Building Group. They can help you from planning to execution to help you avoid these costly mistakes that would push you out of your budget.
Here are six common mistakes you should avoid on your kitchen remodel.
Lack of Proper Planning
The planning phase is the most important part of any kitchen renovation. Since kitchens require so many different phases of construction that need to be done in order, proper planning can make a huge difference. It’s crucial that you have a clear vision of your end goal both aesthetically and functionally before you start. Knowing what your end goal is can make it easier to whittle down choices as you go through your renovation. It’s also important to have a realistic budget and timeline, with plenty of cushioning for inevitable surprises. You don’t want to find yourself canceling on an electrician who can’t squeeze you in for another 2 weeks, because you had to take some extra time on the demolition phase.
Ignoring Functionality for Aesthetics
While style is important, your kitchen still needs to function primarily as a kitchen. Trends can come and go from one day to another, but you’ll likely be creating a kitchen that will last years so it’s important not to incorporate something just because it’s trendy. Narrowing your design to what’s trendy now can also limit your resale value, especially if it comes at the cost of functionality.
You should consider what many remodeling experts call the “kitchen triangle” which consists of your sink, refrigerator, and stove. Ideally, they should all be within a few feet of each other so you can move comfortably within the space without having to reach too far. Opening up your kitchen floor plan or adding features like an island can go a long way toward bettering the flow of your kitchen.
Choosing Inappropriate Materials
On average, kitchens tend to be the most accident-prone area in the home, that’s why it’s so important that you choose to use materials that can handle it. The materials you use from your cabinets to your flooring should be durable enough to last you years to come and practical enough that they don’t become cumbersome over time. For example, you may want to consider brushed stainless steel appliances over regular stainless steel to avoid fingerprint smudges. Likewise, installing reclaimed wood flooring over hardwood can better hide any wear and tear while also making your floor less slippery.
Overlooking Storage Needs
It’s easy to see your empty kitchen and forget all about clutter. In general, people always tend to underestimate how much storage they need, especially if it’s out of sight. However, having things on hand in the kitchen is not just convenient but incredibly helpful. You don’t want to find yourself scouring your home in the middle of cooking because you can’t find the specific pan you need for the recipe.
When it comes to storage, you really can’t get enough, so consider some more creative solutions as well. Hidden pantries, pull-out drawers, and taller cabinets are just a few unique ways to store your kitchen needs.
Underestimating the Importance of Lighting
Good lighting is a balance. It’s bright enough that you don’t need to strain your eyes, but dim enough that it doesn’t hurt your eyes. It also needs to serve both as a functional tool and as a mood setter. To achieve all your lighting needs, consider having different light sources. Have pendant lights over workstations to compliment your recessed or ceiling lights. You may also want to have your lights on a dimmer so that you can swiftly transform the ambiance of your kitchen.
Hiring Unqualified or Inexperienced Contractors
When it comes to Hamilton kitchen renovations, small mistakes at first can lead to bigger consequences later on, and unqualified or inexperienced renovation contractors tend to make more of these mistakes. Be sure to properly vet all potential renovation contractors. Check any references that they give you, search their track record online, and be sure that they have the proper licensing and insurance required in your area. By working with Rose Building Group, you can be sure that you’re working with experienced professionals who can get the job done right.
Expert Renovation Contractors at Rose Building Group
At Rose Building Group, our experienced renovation contractors can help you every step of the way. We provide detailed planning from the start, professional technology to help you envision your end result, and expert contractors to implement your design. Contact us today for advice or to get started on your dream renovation.