Thursday, October 21, 2010

Remodeling Your Bath And Kitchen


Remodeling your home is a rewarding and creative experience. Many homeowners plan many years for the kitchen of their dreams. When deciding on remodeling your kitchen there are several steps to keep in mind. First make sure that when you remodel you have functionality in mind. The layout of the room is essential for comfort and efficiency. If you are remodeling your kitchen you will want to consider how much you entertain or want to entertain. Do you want your kitchen to open up to a living area? Will you need to remove walls or add an addition to have the space that will create your dream kitchen? You may even want to consider connecting your kitchen and living area with French doors that lead to a patio complete with an outdoor kitchen and el fresco dining.

Budget is usually one of the factors that can limit or determine the extent of your renovation project. Yet there are many ways to have the kitchen of your dreams and still stay within your chosen budget. You may have seen designer light fixtures that will complement your design. Search for similar styles with lesser know companies that cost a fraction of the designer price. Commercial ranges may be your first choice but you can save by choosing a four burner instead of the top of the line deluxe eight burner model. There are moderate priced brands that offer fashionable stainless steel stoves and refrigerators to choose from that can save you thousands of dollars.

When you have your plan and budget in mind call a licensed general contractor to give you an estimate. A good contractor will help you to find ways to stay within your desired budget and still be able to have your dream kitchen. The best way to find a professional remodeling company is to ask friends to recommend a contractor. Ask what they liked and what they did not like about their remodeling experience.

If no one you know has glowing recommendations for someone then Google the name of your city with contractor or remodeling contractor and look through individual websites. The pictures on websites of general remodeling and renovation contractors will not only give you an idea of the quality of work performed but can give you ideas that you may not have considered.

When you contact a potential remodeling contractor get a feel for their style; are they on site? Do they sub contract all the work out? Are you speaking with a sales person for a larger company or the general contractor who will be in charge and at your home? Ask the contractor if he or she has customers that you can contact for references. Being able to communicate with your contractor is very important. Do you feel that he or she understands what is most important to you? Will your contractor help you stay on top of your budget if that is your priority? Is your contractor experienced enough to have the foresight of what needs to be done even if you don't know it? Does your contractor appear to make promises too easily and quickly? This can be a red flag of someone eager to get the job then surprise you with hidden cost in the middle of the project. When you are comparing bids from different contractors you want to make sure you are comparing same quality products and workmanship. If you are unsure of an item or price get clarity.

Your home is your castle. Having your home as you always wanted it is a joy. With proper planning and the right contractor you will have your renovation project bring your home to your desired dreams and standards.

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=John_R._Caldwell