One of the most popular home improvements is a kitchen remodel. But before you trust just anyone with such a project, there are some questions to ask a contractor before remodeling a kitchen.
Jaeger Lumber provides building materials and products and services to contractors and homeowners throughout New Jersey. Here, we talk about what to ask potential contractors before hiring them to remodel a kitchen.
Is the Contractor Qualified?
Just like you wouldn’t buy a new car without reading the reviews, the same goes for hiring a contractor to remodel a kitchen. These days, many websites offer peer reviews of contractors. Read those reviews before hiring anyone. You can read people’s honest reviews of the contractor and see before and after kitchen remodeling photos.
You may also want to look for a contractor specializing in kitchen remodels instead of just a general contractor. A kitchen remodeling specialist will have more expertise in remodeling kitchens. They may also be members of associations that specialize in kitchen remodeling. Before you hire a contractor, ask them about the associations they are a part of.
Lastly, find out if your contractor is licensed. Some municipalities require special licenses for different types of work, like plumbing or electrical. Make sure the contractor you hire for your kitchen remodel has the appropriate licenses for where you live. You should also make sure your contractor is insured just in case there is a mishap during the remodel.
What Is the Budget?
After choosing a contractor, you’ll need to set a budget. The price of a kitchen remodel is limitless, so without a firm budget, the costs can pile up. Labor costs alone can account for a fifth of your budget. An average kitchen remodel breakdown looks like this:
- 35% for cabinets
- 20% for labor
- 20% for appliances
- 10% for windows
- 5% for fixtures
- 3% for fittings
- 7% for miscellaneous items
Because the unexpected can happen, especially if you own an older home, contractors recommend adding extra money to your budget. Some experts say 10% of your kitchen remodeling budget should be a buffer, while others say to set aside 20% of your budget for the unexpected.
What Should Be Included for the Ideal Kitchen?
After you have a contractor in mind for your kitchen remodel, you need to be able to describe what you want in your ideal kitchen. Some of the things to consider are:
- Kitchen layout: Using the work triangle method, ensure the sink, stove, and refrigerator are all situated close to each other. This makes it easier to work in your kitchen.
- Kitchen island: If you’re thinking about adding a kitchen island, make sure it is placed in a way that the rest of the kitchen is still accessible.
- Cabinets: When remodeling your kitchen, think about the type of cabinets you want, along with what finishes and hardware go with them, like knobs and pulls.
- Storage space: A lack of space is why many people look to remodel their kitchens. Think about the type of storage you want, and whether it should be open shelving or hidden in a cabinet.
- Flooring: Are you looking for hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring? There are many choices for flooring options.
- Lighting: You want to make sure your kitchen is well-lit, so think about what type of lighting you want to add, and where.
During this stage, your contractor should also ask questions about what you’re looking to get out of a kitchen remodel.
Timeline of the Kitchen Remodel
Before you sign a contract, make sure your contractor has a timeline for completing your project. Things to ask your contractor include:
- How soon can you start?
- How many hours a day do you work?
- Do you work on weekends?
- Do you keep working until the remodel is done, or will there be pauses?
- How long will my remodel take?
- Will parts of my kitchen be useable during the remodel?
You and your contractor must be on the same page with expectations when it comes to completing a kitchen remodel.
Visit Jaeger Lumber’s Kitchen Design Team for Ideas
If you are planning a kitchen remodel, visit the kitchen design team at Jaeger Lumber. Our experts can help design the kitchen of your dreams and work with your contractor to make it happen. The kitchen designers are available at these Jaeger Lumber locations:
- Belmar
- Madison
- Middlesex
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Stirling
- Union
- Verona
If you have any more questions about planning a kitchen remodel, contact us today. We have convenient locations throughout New Jersey.