Are you planning a significant kitchen remodel? It’s essential to get started early if you want your kitchen to be ready for the holidays! In fact, a kitchen renovation project may take more time than you expect, especially compared to other renovations around the home. The kitchen is a complex place filled with many different materials, appliances and requirements – make sure that you have a plan and plenty of room in your schedule. Here’s what you should know about starting a kitchen remodel, and why it can take longer than you think.

Understand that Picking a Contractor Can Take Time

Picking the right contractor isn’t just a matter of making a few phone calls – in fact, it can take days or maybe even weeks to find a contractor that fits your plans. First, you should start with research: Find the qualified contractors in your area, and look at their expertise, their past projects, their certifications, and, of course, what their reviews and testimonials say. In many cases, you may want to ask the contractor specific questions about a renovation as well.

Then, when arranging for an estimate and potential work schedule, you may find that your preferred contractors are busy or don’t have enough manpower to meet your needs. Many of the best contractors are booked several months ahead, so even if you do find the right business, it’s important to understand they won’t be able to start for some time!

Plan Ahead – These Projects Can Take Months

Kitchen renovation projects tend to last a long time. There are many reasons for this, but it really comes down to waiting periods and different remodeling phases. You have to pick out specific materials and fixtures for every step of the process, which can require time-consuming research on your part.

Kitchen renovation projects tend to last a long time. There are many reasons for this, but it really comes down to waiting periods and different remodeling phases. You have to pick out specific materials and fixtures for every step of the process, which can require time-consuming research on your part.

When materials and products are ordered, there may be delays while they are shipping (or potentially even availability issues). Contractors cannot work around some of these delays, because some parts of the remodel must be done before others. Cabinets must always be installed before countertops, for example, and countertops may need to be installed after new appliances have arrived. Finally, larger projects may have to wait for the right permits for important construction tasks. All in all, it can take a few months for a kitchen project to complete even under good circumstances.

Prepare to Have Your Kitchen Be Unavailable

There will be at least several weeks where you won’t be able to use your kitchen much at all (although good contractors try to avoid this as much as possible). It’s important that you plan ahead for this – you won’t be able to host parties or dinners without a working kitchen! Instead, focus on alternatives to traditional kitchen meals. Use your slow cooker a lot more often. Try to schedule renovations for warm weather so you can get outside and grill meals instead of cooking them on the stove. Use this as an excuse to eat more fresh fruit and vegetables!

Are you looking for a reliable renovation expert that can help you design and create that dream kitchen in time for the holidays? Contact Quality Craftsmen! Our team of design experts and professional builders are Certified Aging in Place specialists, helping families through the East Cobb area with all their kitchen remodeling and custom home renovation needs.