Remodeling Your Kitchen

For many families, the kitchen is a hub of activity. Whether you've lived in your home for 20 years and recently decided that it's time to update, or you just bought a home with a 1970s-style kitchen that desperately needs modernizing, at some point you will probably make the decision to remodel your kitchen. Remodeling your kitchen is an easy way to increase the value of your home and perhaps enjoy a tax break as well. If you are thinking of remodeling your kitchen but find the idea a bit daunting, here are some things to consider before you get started.

Kitchen Remodeling Objectives
The first step is to decide on your goals and objectives. Do you want a complete renovation, including moving walls, all-new appliances and different décor, or a simple facelift, upgrading your cabinets and counters and a fresh coat of paint? To help you decide, consider these questions:

• Do you need more cabinets, counters or storage space?
• Do you want to completely change the look of your kitchen, perhaps from country to contemporary?
• Do you need to upgrade appliances such as cooktops, refrigerators or the dishwasher?
• Do you want to add high-tech features such as a workstation, computer, fax and telephone?
• Do you want to change the layout or floor plan, knock down some walls to expand the size of the kitchen or add a center island?
• Are you looking to increase the value of your home but can't afford a dream kitchen?

Kitchen Remodeling Product Ideas
Once you've figured out what you want, it's time to think about what types of products are available. Take your time and look through magazines that feature kitchens that appeal to you. Visit showrooms to become familiar with what products are available, especially if it's been decades since you last thought about kitchen countertops, cabinets, cooktops, appliances or flooring. Chances are you'll be surprised at what's out there.

Function
Next, think about function. Make a list of what you like and don't like about your kitchen the way it is right now. Does the kitchen meet your family's needs? Perhaps what worked when you had young children does not work as well now that they are older. Is it easy to navigate your way around the kitchen? Counters, cabinets and appliances should be conveniently located near each other. Kitchens are typically designed using one of four layouts: U-shape, L-shape, galley or an open plan that combines kitchen and dining areas. Another consideration is adequate lighting over the kitchen sink and counters and inside cabinets or the pantry.

Design
Once you've figured out what you want in your dream kitchen, your best bet is to head to the nearest home center. Many home centers have designers on staff that can help you draw up a floor plan and turn your dreams into a reality. Drawing up a floor plan is important because you need to know that your appliances, countertops and cabinets will fit into the space you have. There is nothing worse than finding out that the new refrigerator is an inch too wide to fit into the designated location. Kitchen designers can also assist you in finding products that meet your needs and fit your budget.

Budget

Finally, as always, you can save money by doing most of the work yourself, especially demolition work and finishing touches, such as paint, wallpaper and some appliance installation.Even a small remodeling project in the kitchen can be expensive. Expect a facelift to cost anywhere from $5,000 and up, with average costs for remodeling ranging between $15,000 and $20,000. No matter what your budget, always buy the best quality products that you can afford, and don't forget to account for the costs of demolition, electrical and plumbing work,and floor installation. When hiring a contractor, always ask for references and follow up with phone calls.