Should you renovate or replace your kitchen?
Replacing an existing kitchen is one of the most expensive and disruptive tasks you can undertake. Before you make the decision to delete everything and start fresh, there are a couple of things to consider:
• Are you currently in your permanent home?
• Does your current kitchen work?
• What budget do you really have?
Renew your kitchen
If you’re not in your permanent home and plan to sell your property within the next two years, consider whether it’s worth the expense, time and effort to replace your current kitchen.
If the current design works and the cabinet shells are still in good working order, why go to the trouble of replacing them? You can achieve a whole new look simply by upgrading some of the existing accessories. Not only will this be considerably cheaper, but the job will be completed in a shorter period of time, with far fewer interruptions.
Start by figuring out what budget you have to spend, as this will help determine the level of improvements you can afford. You can get a whole new look by stripping the kitchen bare shell and replacing all the fixtures. However, if your budget doesn’t go that far, don’t worry; consider what combination of changes will give you the best results; A fresh new color on the walls and ceiling, new cabinet door handles, and some new modern tile can help transform an outdated look.
If you opt for a complete renovation, consider using a local kitchen renovation company that will complete the job for you. However, if you’re happy to take on the challenge yourself, be sure to do the following:
1. Measure all current doors, side panels, and baseboards in your kitchen, then measure again
2. Make sure you can buy the same size spares, check the position of the hinges
3. Think about the door handles and what style is required to make sure the new ones don’t get in the way.
4. If you are replacing your countertop, check the joints and know where they are placed
5. If you are replacing any appliances, please take time to measure to ensure your replacement items fit securely and securely.
6. Any gas appliance must be disconnected and installed by a registered gas fitter
Whatever you can afford, it may not give you the dream kitchen you were hoping for, but it will certainly help make your home more presentable when it comes time to put your house on the market. Just remember that when choosing colors and design, the kitchen is one of the biggest selling points, so don’t put off potential buyers by going for something too bizarre!
Replace your kitchen
If you are lucky enough to be in your home forever, the first thing to consider is what you want from your kitchen. Will the space allow for your design dream? If not, it may be worth considering a refurbishment rather than a replacement. However, if space allows for a completely new layout, start by making a wish list of all the things you’d like to have in your kitchen, this could be anything from a place to entertain to having a built-in wine rack. Write down everything, no matter how impossible you think it is.
Next, consider what budget you have. Plans never go quite right, so make sure you have a little extra cash in reserve, just in case. Once you’ve set your budget and are on board with your expectations for your new kitchen, it’s time to think about layout, design and color. Remember that you won’t want to change your kitchen again any time soon, so spend time looking for styles and designs that you like.
Once you have an idea of style and color, have a professional design your kitchen; many of the DIY stores offer free design and planning. They will come to your home and talk to you about their expectations. Check your wish list, but keep in mind that you may have to compromise. They will take measurements and note where the current services are and provide you with a printed floor plan. Whether you use the company or go elsewhere is up to you, however, unless you are a craftsman by trade, it is recommended that your kitchen be professionally fitted.
Like everything in this world, you get what you pay for, but if you take the time to thoroughly research your dream kitchen, you will find excellent value for money.