Questions To Ask Before a Kitchen Remodel

Expert Kitchen Remodeling in Nashua & Salem, NH

A kitchen remodel is one of the most popular and valuable home renovations, enhancing both functionality and resale value. Before starting your kitchen renovation, it's important to understand the process, timeline, and key decisions involved.

At Blackdog Design/Build, we have over 30 years of experience creating stunning, functional kitchens for homeowners in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Here, we answer common kitchen remodeling questions to help you plan your dream kitchen with confidence.

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?

It will depend on the size and scope of the project. If you're just replacing cabinets and appliances, installing new flooring, and adding a coat of paint, the actual construction work may take a few weeks to a month, plus several weeks beforehand for designing, selecting materials, and waiting for delivery.

If the kitchen remodel involves more extensive work, such as moving walls, installing new drywall, or installing new plumbing and electrical systems, the construction time may be several months or longer.

What's the Return on Investment (ROI) for a Kitchen Remodel?

Like most remodeling projects, you won't typically make a profit from a kitchen remodel, but it does add value to your home that you can recoup if you sell in the future. As far as actual returns, small kitchen remodeling projects typically do better, with returns of about 81% on the dollar or more, according to Remodeling Magazine.

More in-depth remodels will earn about a 59% return. If you're selling soon, a small remodel will offer the best return, and large remodels should only be considered if you plan to stay and enjoy the results.

How Should I Prepare for a Kitchen Remodel?

Remove all your belongings from the kitchen, including cooking utensils, dishes, small appliances, food, and personal items. Give the area a basic cleaning to ensure nothing was missed.

Cover furniture in adjacent rooms with plastic to prevent dust accumulation, and consider hanging plastic in the entryways to the kitchen. The contractor will also take steps to keep the area clean and minimize dust.

What's Involved in the Kitchen Remodeling Process?

Typically, the kitchen remodeling process can be broken down into four phases:

1. Design: Once a contract has been signed, the contractor will work with the homeowner to create a design, then materials will be selected and ordered.
2. Demolition: Any cabinets, appliances, flooring, and finishes that will be replaced are removed. For in-depth remodels, drywall, sub-flooring, plumbing, and electrical may be removed to allow for repairs and upgrades.
3. Construction: Any new plumbing and electrical will be installed, followed by drywall and flooring. Priming and painting will be completed, followed by cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, and more.
4. Final touches: Touch-ups will be made to paint and other finishes, followed by appliance installation, accessories, and lighting.

The process will vary based on the size and extent of the kitchen remodel.

What Features Should Get the Most Attention?

Cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances are all good places to invest the most money. They will offer the best returns and the most enjoyment for the homeowner.

If you're planning to stay in the home, choose materials and colors that best suit your tastes, but if you're planning to sell, choose a design that has a broader appeal, with neutral colors and conventional styling.

Kitchen Remodeling in Nashua & Salem, New Hampshire

When you want to create your dream kitchen, trust our experts at Blackdog Design/Build. We have over 30 years of remodeling experience, and we serve customers in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Call us in Nashua or Salem, or contact us online to schedule a design consultation today.