Real World Remodeling

Deadlines aren’t quite as they seem on television. As nice as it would be to have a kitchen remodel completed in just one weekend, there is a lot of hard work behind the scenes that the viewers do not see. Simple touch ups are easy to finish quickly, such as painting or cabinet hardware, but full on redesigns need time to design, demolish, and rebuild. 

Depending on your choice of cabinetry, production time is about 8 to 10 weeks. Countertops tend to be what puts a pause on a project. A good contractor typically will not measure for countertops until the cabinets are installed. This allows for a guaranteed fit. Once measurements are sent off to the supplier, it can take 10 days or longer for them to fabricate the countertops. 

Other possible delays are unexpected structural problems and special order items.

In an effort to keep your project on track, make sure that all of the materials have been ordered and confirmed before demolition of your kitchen or bathroom. These materials would include: tile, sink, faucet, lighting, hardware & cabinets. This way, if delays occur, you still have a functional kitchen or bathroom to work with. With all materials on site, a kitchen remodel can be completed in about 3 weeks. This of course is an average and will usually take a bit longer. 

Remodels almost always take longer than anticipated. It is important to be flexible. Make sure to have a vision of what you want the final product to look like. Not only will this keep you on track, it will be easier for the remodelers to execute your project.

Holding on to what you rip out of your kitchen has a few benefits. You have the option to donate the materials or even reuse them in another area of your home. Cabinets can give you storage in a den or garage. You possibly can even create another kitchen in your home.