Preparing Your Renovation: What to Expect and When to Call the Experts
Remodelling the kitchen is certainly one of the best things you can do for your home. It not only adds new life and value to your property, but also enhances the functionality of the kitchen itself. Homeowners are always thrilled with the space, style and practicality that comes with a remodelled kitchen, but they are often unaware of what to expect when commencing the renovation. When the old décor and appliances start being pulled apart and the kitchen is gutted, homeowners often find themselves unsure of what to do next.
There can also be some confusion as to when they should call in the professionals or undertake a particular job themselves. As one of Sydney’s leading remodelling firms for over 50 years, Apollo Kitchens has had plenty of experience with homeowners who could have used a little extra guidance in preparation for the big rework. This isn’t a bad thing, and it’s perfectly understandable that those new to home renovations get an extra hand.
To simplify the process and minimise the likelihood of issues resulting in major headaches, we have created this piece on how to prepare for a renovation, what to expect and when it might be necessary to call in the experts.
Start Preparations Months in Advance
This may seem like a given, but plenty of people leave their planning to within a couple of weeks of the remodel. This is strongly advised against. Planning is key for an efficient, successful remodel. For starters, you need to know exactly what you want and where you want it.
Will you be moving your sink to a new location and if so, does this require a refitting of the plumbing system? Will you need to move or add electrical sockets? Will you undertake your own measuring for the new kitchen island? You simply cannot go into a renovation without having a clear idea of what you want for your kitchen.
If you find that you are confused about the specifications of your renovation, consult your professional contractor. They know the specifications, where things go and what looks good and will be happy to provide advice accordingly.
Depending on the size of the project, you would need time to gain council approval for the renovations being commenced. Work simply cannot go ahead without approval on the electrical and plumbing work that will be undertaken. Your contractor can assist you with the admin and paperwork behind council approval, and this will help speed up the process. In NSW you will need to seek insurance from NSW Home Building Compensation Fund
Finally, you need to order early. Problems such as manufacturer, appliance or trade delays. You do not want to be caught out on the day the new splashback is installed without the actual splashback.
Should You Call in the Experts?
If you are going for the full do-over: new plumbing, electrical and cabinets then yes, it is strongly advised that you call in the experts. Things can get seriously tricky when undertaking a renovation, and you need to be able to judge your limits. You need to ask yourself the following questions:
- What are my abilities as a renovator?
- Do I have the time to renovate myself?
- How big is the job?
- Am I ready to get my hands dirty?
- How can I make my design work?
Commencing a large job without the required skills and experience can have serious financial ramifications as well as push back the completion date of your project. You don’t want to commence plumbing works only to find out you were under-researched, unprepared and ill-equipped. It’s any renovator’s nightmare and something that should be avoided at all costs.
How to Prepare
So, you have planned your renovation, received council approval, realised your limitations and booked tradespeople accordingly – you’re ready to renovate. There are certain things you need to do before renovation commences to ensure the job goes smoothly. This will also ensure you can eat well/live comfortably throughout the process without any damage to your appliances.
Complete the following tasks before commencement:
- Ask your contractor about the dates and timeline of work (this will help you prepare).
- Remove all pictures, mirrors, curtains and other hanging objects from the kitchen to avoid damage.
- Cook food in advance before freezing it to preserve its longevity. You don’t want to get caught buying takeaway every night of the renovation, so plan your meals ahead.
- Place gadgets, utensils and appliances in labelled boxes using bubble wrap for added protection.
- Place storage boxes in a cupboard so that they don’t get in you and your contractor’s way.
- Have the items you will still need during renovations handy: coffee maker, microwave, utensils etc.
- Purchase plastic cutlery, plates and cups if you are set to be without water for a period.
- Create an access path drop zone for tradespeople and deliveries.
- Cover furniture, walkways and appliances with protective plastic wrap throughout the renovation process to avoid damage.
- Move fridge throughout renovations.
What to Expect
If you are having tradespeople help with the job, then expect to have tradespeople in your home for a week or longer. This is a given, but many people underestimate the amount of work that goes into a kitchen remodelling.
You should also be prepared to be without access to your kitchen, as well as access to water or power in the kitchen. Certain aspects of a renovation can take more than a day, and this may mean you may not get to use kitchen appliances for a short period of time. This may be annoying at the time, but remember – it’s for the sake of the renovation and your beautiful new kitchen!
Expect to Have Fun!
At the end of the day, a kitchen renovation is great for a beautiful home. It increases its value and adds a whole new aesthetic charm to the home. So, remember to be patient, relax (although it can be stressful) and enjoy the ride. Upon completion of the remodelling you will have a stunning new kitchen you will be proud to cook in and show off, and this goes a long way to helping you enjoy the ride that is kitchen remodelling.
