07/03/2013
Kitchen Construction Tips
- Create a storage area where you can appliances, , and when they arrive. Open and inspect all items when they arrive to make sure that you have what you ordered and that items were not damaged during shipping.
- If you are working with a general contractor, coordinate with the contractor to arrange for a Dumpster and for disposal of all items that you no longer need. Make sure that Dumpsters are picked up in a timely manner.
- Create a place in your where you can have a "temporary ." This can be a microwave, fridge, and toaster oven. Prepare frozen items in advance and schedule your renovation for a time of year when you can do some grilling on your barbecue.
- If you are not able to remain in your home while all the work is taking place, have a key made for your . Make sure to find a for your pets to feel comfortable and safe while you do your renovation.
- File for all the necessary permits before work begins. Place the in a place where it can be seen.
- As a courtesy to your neighbors, let them know that you are doing work on your home and how long you think the will take. You may want to give them a bouquet of flowers and a thank you when the work is complete.
- Seal off all the rooms adjacent to the room where the work is going to take place to avoid seeping into other rooms -- as much as possible. Place plastic covers over ducts, and cover up doors to other rooms. As you know, many construction projects generate a lot of dust, especially when you put new drywall on the walls.
- Shut off ducts and cover HVAC grills with plastic as another precaution to prevent dust seepage.
- Be flexible. As the demolition takes place, you might find that you have to make some changes to your plans. This is not unusual.
- Keep a list of all your ' and contractors' phone in one place. Carry this list with you, so that you can follow up on requests as they happen. You may also want to post this list in your construction area, along with a copy of your floor plans.
- Get a copy of your contractor's Certificate of Insurance and keep it with all of your contracts and other paperwork.
- Let your insurance know that you are working on a home improvement project.
- Make sure your contractors know how to reach you. Give them phone numbers where you can easily be reached.
- Choosing a paint color? Put of paint on the wall of the room you are painting. Look at it at different times of the day.
- Check with your contractors regularly. If you are working with a general contractor, set up a weekly meeting at your home to go over the details.
- Stay on top of all the details; you might feel like you have a second job during this process, but it will be well worth it.
- While all the work is taking place, use this time for decorating. Look for fun and items to complement your new room. Turn a difficult process into an enjoyable one and don't think of the work taking place -- think of your new dream kitchen and what it will become.
