A major kitchen renovation project is a costly and time-consuming undertaking. In order to ensure that things run smoothly, it's important that you tackle the work in the right sequence. Here are some tips and advice on how to plan your kitchen renovation.
Design phase
The first stage of any kitchen renovation project is the design phase. Plan out exactly how you want your new kitchen to look and make a detailed list of appliances, cabinets, finishes etc. Remember to take into account permanent fixtures like windows, plumbing and power access before you finalise your new layout.
Arrange a meeting of all contractors and use your floor plan as a guide when discussing the practicalities of the layout you want. When everything has been agreed, you can decide on timescales and work out costs. Schedule all your tradesmen well in advance, and order appliances, cabinetry, splashbacks, flooring, etc. early.
Preparation
Before the renovation work can begin in earnest, you'll need to prepare the kitchen. Empty all cupboards of crockery and food and store it elsewhere. Place plastic sheeting across doorways to stop dust permeating the rest of the house and to prevent dirt being carried through onto your carpets.
Dismantle and take out existing appliances, cabinets, splashbacks, sinks etc. Strip wallpaper, remove existing tiles and take up old floor coverings.
Structural work
The first physical stage in the renovation project is structural alterations. This is generally the messiest and noisiest phase, so it's well-worth relocating to a nearby hotel or relative's house while this stage is being completed.
Plumbing
Once the structural reorganisation has been completed, your plumber can start work on installing drainage pipes, fixtures and water heaters etc.
Work like fitting kitchen appliances, sinks, taps, etc will need to be scheduled for later in the project following the installation of worktops and splashbacks.
Electrical work
Electrical work should be scheduled to take place once structural alterations have been completed. Bear in mind that your electricity will need to be disconnected during this period, so be prepared for some disruption.
Worktops and splashbacks
The next job will be the installation of worktops and splashbacks. This will generally be carried out by your builder or specialist renovator.
Flooring
The laying of new flooring generally takes place late in a renovation project. This ensures that your new floor won't be damaged by building debris, water leaks and the passage of dirty boots.
Stone or tiles will require plenty of time to settle and for grout to "go off" properly before appliances and cabinets can be installed.
Cabinets
A carpenter may be required to fit new doors, windows and shelving. This work should be carried out before cabinets and shelves etc are installed to avoid the possibility of damage.
Painting and decorating
This is the last job in the kitchen renovation project cycle when the other tradesmen have finished working and the dust has settled. Give the kitchen a thorough vacuuming to get rid of any residual dust and protect new worktops and floors with sheeting before the painters begin work. Remember to wipe down walls with a damp cloth to get rid of the fine coating of dust that may be lingering there.
In conclusion
You can ensure that your kitchen renovation project goes smoothly by careful planning and scheduling contractors well in advance. It's a good idea to build a little "lag" between phases to allow for possible delays or unforeseen setbacks.
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