All too often, visions of a dream kitchen turn into a nightmare. Following are the top 5 mistakes and how you can avoid them.
- Ripping out the kitchen too early. If you plan to use semi-custom cabinets, they are made to order and usually take 4 to 6 weeks to receive. If you rip out the kitchen before ordering, you will be without a kitchen for more than a month before you ever receive your cabinets. The best way to ensure that you are out of your kitchen the least amount of time is to wait until your cabinets are received before tearing out old kitchen cabinets. That way you can ensure that you have all of your cabinets and they are in good condition before and ready to install before tearing out the old cabinets. You can order semi-custom kitchen cabinets online at USHomeProducts.
- Measuring your space improperly can cause major headaches. Once semi-custom cabinets are manufactured for you, they can’t be returned. If you’ve measured improperly, then you’ll have to either make the cabinets that you have work, or order additional cabinets (at an additional expense). You can find step-by-step instructions on USHomeProducts under Design Tips. You can also use the free online planner after registering on the site.
- Remember, it’s a kitchen that you will be using every day. Make it functional! All too often, narrow walkways, inconvenient door swings and poor island locations can really interrupt the flow of your work space. Be sure to create a work triangle between the stove, sink and refrigerator and keep all walkways at least 36 inches wide. Make sure that no entry, appliance or cabinet door will interfere with another.
- Lack of counter space and storage are two big complaints. Plan accordingly. You can save counter space by installing appliances under cabinets or counters. A microwave can be installed above the stove or a drawer-type microwave can be installed in a cabinet under the counter. Be sure to plan outlets for countertop appliances. Storage is what cabinets are all about and pantry organizers and other accessories can help organize your stuff while making it easily accessible. For design ideas, see our customer Testimonials page.
- Keep an eye on your budget. The cost of the kitchen should not exceed 20 percent of the value of the home. Be prepared for unexpected expenses. As with all remodeling projects, you can’t anticipate every expense. Cabinet prices can vary widely based on type of wood, door style and glazes. You can price out the cost of cabinets online at USHomeProducts.