4 Easy Steps to Going Green in Your Kitchen
From preparing meals to cleaning up the dishes, the kitchen is one room in the home where earth-friendly ideas sometimes get disregarded. If you are planning to reduce your household’s carbon footprint and be kinder to the environment, the kitchen is one of the greatest places to start making some changes. Sure, there are simple things you can do to reduce waste and make better choices, but there are some pretty simple steps to making your kitchen as green as it possibly can be where construction and setup is concerned as well. Check out these tips to going green in your kitchen.
1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
How long has it been since you upgraded the dishwasher, refrigerator, oven, or stovetop in your kitchen? If those appliances have been hanging around for a while, it could very well be time for a change. Outdated appliances are pretty notorious for being huge energy consumers. Plus, dated dishwashers use far more water than modern ones during the average wash cycle. There are some tips to being more conservative with the appliances you already have, but upgrading is bound to make more of a difference. Take a look at some of the more modern appliances that have features like:
- convection heating in ovens
- reflective stovetop burners
- impressive Energy Star ratings
- load-size options with dishwashers
2. Go for Recycled Materials
When you are considering implementing a few new features during the kitchen renovation, there is nothing saying you have to go with items that are completely new–only new to you. In fact, many of the kitchen staples necessary during construction or remodel are available created from recycled materials. You can find counter tops that are manufactured from recycled glass and ceramics, flooring that is fabricated from recycled plastics, and even cabinetry that is solely built from recycled wood or even metal.
3. Opt for Low VOC Paints and Finishes
Even choosing paint and varnish colors for your upgraded kitchen should be affected if you are trying to keep things green. Some paints and varnishes are specially formulated to be easier on the environment and healthier for use inside of the house. Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paint and varnish is a good example. Many low-quality paints and varnishes you would normally reach for during a kitchen remodel give off toxic chemicals and carcinogens that are bad for you and the environment. Steer clear of these and instead opt for low-VOC versions that are much safer and a much more earth-friendly choice.
4. Choose Energy-Efficient Flooring
Making your kitchen greener can also mean you pay closer attention to what material is beneath your feet. Believe it or not, the type of flooring you have in your kitchen can make a difference in how well the space contains heated and cooled air. While carpet is a logical choice in the rest of the home because it is a natural insulator, carpet is not a logical addition during a kitchen remodel. Just the same, there are options that are considered energy-efficient. For example, some engineered wood flooring materials have an insulation backing.
In Conclusion
The kitchen is the perfect place to start implementing green ideas into your home and the process of doing so can be simplified into four easy steps:
- Make sure your appliances are energy-efficient.
- Implement recycled materials where you can.
- Stick with low-VOC paints and varnishes.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient flooring.
When you start focusing on greener living, customizing your home to coincide is an excellent option. Here at RWC in New Jersey, our professional staff wants to help you make those changes. Contact us for more information about how you can make your kitchen green in construction and design.
3 Reasons to Consider Kitchen Window Replacement in New Jersey
Putting in new kitchen windows is a great way to freshen up the room and make it more fun to cook. However, there are far more reasons to have modern kitchen windows installed than appearances alone. Here are some other reasons to get window replacement for your kitchen:
1. Temperature Control
In the winter, everyone thinks of keeping more heat inside. This is easier with new kitchen window designs since modern versions are well-insulated and contain several energy-efficient features. They are typically made with double glazing, which puts an insulating layer between the panes of glass. Some even have triple glazing. The wide frames are also insulated. Invisible coatings provide even more efficiency as well as protection from UV rays.
If you cook frequently, you know that temperature control in this area of the house isn’t all about trying to retain heat. Instead, it is just as important to be able to get rid of it on demand. Cracking the window while cooking a roast or other slow-baking item makes things much more pleasurable. All new types of kitchen windows will be easy to open, while older ones tend to be sticky or have inconvenient designs.
2. Ease of Use
Some old-fashioned kitchen windows aren’t very easy to use. One of the problems in most kitchens is that an old kitchen window is placed right over the sink. This forces you to have to reach a long distance to even access them. Such a reach makes vintage designs such as the swing-out style unfeasible for actual use.
When replacing the windows in this room, it is important to remember that reach factor. Then, you’ll be able to choose a design that puts the window’s latch work in a convenient place – not only when the window is closed, but after it has been opened.
3. To Brighten the Kitchen
A dull and dingy kitchen sucks the joy out of what would otherwise be fun, enjoyable, and rewarding activities. After all, who wants to cook and bake in a depressing interior environment? Put in new, larger windows to let the light in and invigorate your food creation time.
It is often the case that a kitchen simply doesn’t have enough windows. One or two tiny openings just doesn’t cut it. If your kitchen has this problem, let us enlarge your window openings and add more windows if needed. You’ll love it when the entire space is bright and airy because of new, custom kitchen windows.
Consider Adding These Improvements, Too
Windows are great for lighting while the sun is up, but once it goes down, you’ll need to rely on artificial light. Have us install new lighting for a great-looking solution to problems in this area. Choose creative styles that include easy-to-clean covers to protect the bulbs from any grease or other such things that might otherwise get on them.
The walls and flooring of old kitchens can get dull through the years as well. If you’re going for a new look, try adding these areas to the residential project. It’ll make a tremendous difference since both the walls and floor have plenty of surface area to see. With decor in mind, go for light colors to greatly enhance the effects of the sunlight that will pour into the room after you get your new windows.
We have been in operation here at RWC in New Jersey since 1959, and have the experience needed to do all of the renovations needed to make your kitchen into the fun and uplifting space it should be. Call us to get your old windows replaced, add entirely new ones, and to complete any other desired kitchen remodel upgrades. If you need help deciding on exactly what changes to have made, we’re also able to provide design services to ensure that everything looks great. Contact us today to get started.
Service Spotlight: 4 Steps to Renovating Your Kitchen
For many families, the kitchen is the most used room in the house. For this reason, it’s also one the most renovated rooms in a home. Whether you prepare three daily organized meals or the family eats separately according to individual busy schedules, it’s important to have a kitchen that’s functional for your family. Choosing to renovate your kitchen can be for practical reasons, or it can serve as an update to your current floorplan and finishes. Either way, these renovations add value to your home in the long run. Planning to remodel your kitchen may seem like a daunting task, but at RWC we take the stress out of home improvement by following these 4 steps.
Step 1: Initial Design Consultation
First, our staff will schedule a time to meet at your home. Our staff will discuss your intentions for this renovation and your budget. During this appointment, our home professionals will go through your kitchen wish list. Be prepared ahead of time by deciding what you want in your remodel; specifically what is important and what your needs are versus your wants. To help distinguish wants from needs, our staff will discuss a basic budget and what you are comfortable spending for your renovation. Providing this information early on will help our design team put together the most comprehensive plan for your kitchen. Our designers will be cautious not to “over design” your space, which simply means making the kitchen feel too busy and lack practicality. Based on your design thoughts, we’ll talk about what you can expect during the construction phase. Our staff will also take measurements and pictures to look at any structural, electrical or plumbing issues that may impact the design.
Step 2: Design Presentation & Draft Proposal
After the initial design consultation is finished you’ll meet at our West Caldwell showroom to select the products and finishes. This is your opportunity to bring your vision to life! Compare sinks, faucets, tiles, countertops, cabinet finishes and more. Since we have samples in-house, seeing your design options together before you buy is a huge advantage. Don’t be afraid to bring photos of what you are looking for; our designer will be able to guide you based on your style and budget. Our design team will show you various finishes and materials at your price point. After seeing your options, you’ll have the final say in choosing your cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring and fixtures during this step.
Step 3: Project Proposal with 3-D Drawing
After determining the budget and features you want your new kitchen to have, it’s time to develop a design. We’ll produce a 3-Dimensional color drawing and a written proposal that puts your ideas on paper so you have a description and vision of what you want built. If you don’t love your 3-Dimensional rendering, don’t panic! This meeting is the opportunity to explore additional options for your renovation and make revisions to the current plan. Customizing your kitchen to your style and needs is what makes it uniquely yours! Once the 3D drawing and written proposal is finalized, construction can begin.
Step 4: Construction Begins
It’s time to put the plans into action! Prior to construction, your materials will be ordered and you’ll meet our Lead Carpenter and Designer. During the construction process your Designer and Lead Carpenter will be your main contacts. Communication is vital to an extraordinary experience! If at any time, you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.
Conclusion
If you aren’t sure how to start a kitchen renovation project around West Caldwell, NJ, contact us at RWC. We’ll be happy to schedule a meeting to discuss your project and help you through the steps toward having a kitchen you love.
Kitchen Remodeling: What You Need to Know [Infographic]
Thinking about remodeling your kitchen but overwhelmed by the possibilities?
We’ve created an infographic filled with stats about the latest kitchen trends. Use this information to be sure the design and appliances you select result in a beautiful, functional kitchen for years to come.
When you’re ready to start your kitchen remodel, look to RWC in West Caldwell for guidance and professionalism. We’ve got 54 years’ experience and have seen trends come and go. We’re can help you choose a kitchen design that will remain stylish for years to come. Call us today to get started!
Sources:
https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/kitchen/9-kitchen-trends-that-cant-go-wrong/
https://www.remodeling.hw.net/benchmarks/economic-outlook-rri/homeowners-hired-pros-to-remodel-66-of-kitchens-58-of-baths-nkba-survey-finds_o
https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/kitchen/classic-kitchen
6 Essential Upgrades for Kitchen Storage and Organization
A good storage system is probably more essential in the kitchen than anywhere else in the home. Here, clutter not only takes up valuable working space, but makes good sanitation all but impossible. Try these 6 solutions to solve this problem in ways that are both tidy and functional:
Add More Cabinets and Pantry Space
This is the most basic solution, but it is also the most essential. In order to get rid of clutter, you need somewhere to put it. It’s not unusual to find that you need to add an entire extra wall of cabinets to even have the basic amount of storage you need, especially in older homes. Along with those, add some extra pantries. These are basically closets for your kitchen. Use them for items you don’t want to have to reach up for. They’re great for everything from big pans to awkward bottles of cleaning solution.
In-Cabinet Organization Systems
These systems allow you to get the full use out of your kitchen cabinets. If you have cabinets but find that you’d rather leave things on the counter instead, you need these! They eliminate the problem of things getting lost after you’ve put them away. You’ll be far more comfortable with taking things off the counter when you know you’ll be able to get them back without a hassle.
Some of the most popular storage systems for cabinets include wine racks and cup hangers. Cup hangers let you hang your mugs and teacups by their handles so you see them all at a glance. Add pull-out shelves to keep your spices and other small items organized too.
Cabinet Accessories
The built-in aspects of in-cabinet storage systems are only part of the equation. Be sure to fill these out with accessories that make it easy to keep everything organized and safe from damage. For example, if you store sets of dinnerware, you should be sure to add plate separators to keep the plates from being damaged by bumping into each other. Cups should also have separators placed between them if stacked.
Drawers
The basic construction of a drawer is simple, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be improved upon. Have your new drawers built so that they tilt downward slightly when slid out. This will make it easy to see and reach the things in the back.
If you like to use drawers for storing small items, use inserts that provide a number of separate compartments. This makes it easy to arrange things by item type, but that’s just one of the benefits. Compartmentalizing your drawers also keeps the smallest items from sliding under larger ones and getting lost.
Pot Racks
Despite the name, these aren’t really “racks” in the strictest sense. Instead, they allow for pots and pans to be hung from their hooks. Typically, a modern pot rack is hung from the ceiling instead of being mounted on a wall. They come in a huge variety of designs and finishes.
Towel Rods
Many kitchens lack these simple, but essential, items. People tend to associate towel holders with bathrooms, so when it comes time to design a kitchen, they simply forget about them. In reality, kitchen towels are used very frequently, and they need a good place to dry if they are to remain free of mold and mildew. The one caveat is to avoid the common practice of hiding a towel holder in the under-sink cabinet. Hang the towel out in the open so it dries fast enough to stay fresh.
These are just some of the elements you need in order to create a well-organized kitchen. Talk to us here at RWC in New Jersey to get a full design, quality kitchen remodeling services, and more.
Make Your Kitchen A Chef's Dream
There’s no need to work in a hot restaurant all day to have a kitchen worthy of a chef. Instead, we can build you a kitchen that has all of the necessary features – without the stress and rush of a busy commercial environment. Here are some of the features you should include in the design to set it apart from a regular home cooking area:
A Marble-Topped Kitchen Island
Marble is a pastry chef’s favorite. It stays cool for long periods of time, which is essential for getting pastry dough to be thin and flaky. The cool temperatures of the marble keeps the butter or shortening in the dough from quickly melting into a gooey mass. Pastry chefs also use marble rolling pins to maximize the effect.
A Stainless Steel Food Prep Area
Chefs in large kitchens don’t fuss around with tiny cutting boards. Instead, at least part of the counter space is finished in stainless steel. This type of countertop does not stain and can be sanitized. In order to be properly sanitized, a surface must be non-porous. It also needs to stand up to scrubbing. Since stainless steel has both of these properties, it can be safely used for a variety of cutting tasks – including chopping raw meat.
Commercial kitchens typically have work surfaces in 100 percent stainless steel. However, if you want your kitchen to look a bit less industrial, granite is a great solution for areas that won’t be in direct contact with food.
Multiple Stoves
It’s all but impossible to get all of the elements of a dinner to finish cooking at the same time without burning if you only have one oven. That’s because different dishes cook at different temperatures. The proper chef’s solution? Multiple ovens. Two or three will allow you to cook everything at the right temperature simultaneously.
Ranges and Grills
Professional chef ranges are typically installed separately from ovens. This gives the chef more cooking space and keeps him or her from having to stand in the way of the oven door. Commercial kitchens also typically have huge, permanent flat grilling panels so that chefs don’t have to try to make do with tiny griddles. If you fry up large quantities of foods like eggs, consider adding one of these grills to your own kitchen.
An Upgraded Refrigerator
The standard refrigerator has a huge general cooling area, but only includes a relatively tiny freezer and crisper. Chefs, however, often deal with more greens than the average person. They may also keep a larger stock of frozen ingredients. Get a refrigerator unit that suits your personal cooking style. Popular variations include models with equal size freezer and refrigerator zones, units with extra crisper drawers, and more. You can also get a separate refrigerator and freezer and forgo the combo-unit concept entirely.
Professional-Grade Sinks
Those who do plenty of cooking and baking know that a single-sink system is nowhere near efficient enough for serious washing. Getting a large double stainless steel sink would alleviate the washing issue and give plenty of room for dishes and scrubbing. However, there shouldn’t be a need for the standard commercial triple-compartment sink. Since one of those compartments is for restaurant-style sanitization, few people who cook at home need to chemically sanitize their pots and pans.
These are just some of the differences between a professional chef’s kitchen and a standard household one. Deciding which elements will be best for you depends on your cooking style as well as the quantities of food you’ll be cooking. Talk to one of our designers here at RWC in West Caldwell, NJ to get some specific ideas to incorporate into your kitchen renovation project.
Out With the Old: 6 Renovation Ideas to Improve Your Kitchen
“Out with the old” is a common saying for the new year, but it rings hollow if you find yourself looking at old appliances, floors, and countertops. Instead of trying to feel fresh with old things, how about you give your home something new that you will love? Renovate your kitchen by getting rid of your old things and replacing them with newer more efficient stuff:
1. Appliances
Most types of appliances have good durability, but that doesn’t mean that you really want to keep them forever. Their finishes get worn out, their styles can become dated, and sometimes, the ones you have just no longer suit your needs. If any of these things are true, it’s time to get rid of your old equipment.
The range/oven is a good start for replacement in many cases. Exposure to years of heat and grease can really destroy the look, and it is one of the most style-sensitive large appliances as well. Not only is the style important, but the size is an important factor to consider. If you have ever spent the holidays fighting to get a roast and all of the fixings to fit inside your oven, change it now so you won’t have to deal with that problem again.
2. Lighting
You don’t have to want fancy lighting to want a change from what you currently have. If your kitchen has shadowy spots or areas of glare, consider getting new fixtures to lighten up the area. Of course, once you decide to change the lighting, it is always good idea to check out your options on the upscale side. Lighting doesn’t have to be basic and you can make it unique to your home.
3. Countertops & Backsplashes
These two elements work together, so they should be considered at the same time. This helps to ensure that they look great as a unit.
Granite is still king when it comes to a good grade countertop. The rock itself is extremely durable, and the modern finishes are tough enough to stand up to actually being used. Some care is needed for the finish, but it’s nothing too onerous. However, the beauty of the granite is what makes people really love this material for countertops and tiles.
One of the best ways to ensure that the backsplash will look as good as the counter is to have the backsplash made of the same material. This maintains the overall look and feel of the area and allows it to match perfectly.
4. Sinks
Kitchen sinks are typically placed within the countertop, but they’re not limited to this position. They can also go in kitchen islands, bar counters, and other such places. The sink itself can be the popular stainless steel, which won’t discolor when used to soak dishes and can also stand up to scouring and disinfecting. What you really need to pay attention to is the faucet, this fixture often makes the difference between a basic sink and one that is very impressive.
5. Cabinets
Most people first decide to get new cabinets when their old ones look worn. However, this isn’t the only reason to replace them. Say “out with the old” to cabinets that are too small, have poor shelving design, and ones that otherwise don’t fit your needs.
When choosing cabinets, remember that there is a wide variety of placement options for them. They can go up on the wall, under the counter, or even within kitchen islands. Some of these places, especially the islands, may look better with a different style of cabinets than the ones that are used for the rest of the room.
6. Flooring
The floor is one of the kitchen’s most prominent areas, and as such, it should be treated as a true design element. Choose a pattern that looks great, is waterproof, and that won’t be dated next year. Then you’ll be able to enjoy it for years to come.
Renovate With RWC
Whether you want to bring in a single new element, update a few, or do a complete renovation, our designers can create the perfect plan for your kitchen. Just contact us here at RWC in West Caldwell, NJ, for that new design or for installation of your choices.
Useful Thanksgiving Kitchen Survival Tips and Tricks
Thanksgiving is likely more well-known for huge quantities of home cooking than any other holiday. This holiday involves an average of 12 guests, all of whom will be waiting for your homemade food.
Because of this, you have surely put plenty of thought into what to buy, when to cook it, and just when to serve it. Still, there’s one big thing that you may have overlooked:
The Kitchen
This is the hub of Thanksgiving Day cooking action, yet you likely don’t give it a second thought until it’s time to actually start preparing the feast. After all, you see this room every day, and it is likely fine for the needs of two, three, or four people. It’s only when you need to cook for more that problems become obvious. Here are some of the elements that are worth paying special attention to:
The Refrigerator
Keeping the turkey fresh before and after the holiday is very challenging if your refrigerator isn’t big enough. Taking a shelf out can provide the headroom a whole turkey needs, but if the fridge isn’t wide enough, there’s nothing you can do to expand it. Therefore, you should seriously think of getting a bigger unit if the current one is too narrow.
The Oven
Most of the year, you likely only bake one or two things at a time. However, Thanksgiving often involves baking, roasting, or heating several dishes at once. The easiest way to deal with this challenge is to put in a double oven. Then, there’ll be no trouble baking some things at 400F and keeping other things warm at 250F.
Warming Trays
If you’re hesitant to add a double oven, get some warming trays instead. These can keep already-cooked food warm until everything else is ready to go. Once the holiday is over, they can be stored away until the next big event.
Cooling Stations
Heat may be the star of the kitchen, but some foods are far better off kept cold. Your salads, fruit cocktails, and drinks will stay at the perfect temperature if you add a cooling station to your kitchen. This will save you from having to try to juggle things in and out of the main refrigerator.
A Good Pot Rack
Have you ever experienced the frustration of having a stack of big pots fall over because you had to get one from the middle of the pile? Get a new pot rack to hang each one separately and ensure that this holiday goes smoothly. A stainless steel one will look impressive as well as organized.
New Cabinets
During most of the year, it may not be a big deal if the cabinet doors aren’t absolutely perfect. However, plenty of guests will see them during holidays. Have your cabinets spruced up or replaced if they aren’t in tip-top shape.
A New Floor
The principle is the same as for the cabinets. If you’ve been thinking that your kitchen floor doesn’t look too great anymore, now is the time to fix that by having new tile installed. Not only will your guests enjoy the new look, you’ll get to enjoy it yourself for a long time to come.
A Big Dishwasher
Once the celebration is over, you’ll be left with heaps of dishes to clean. Make this job as easy as possible by having a new, large dishwasher put in. The latest models will make short work of the stacks.
Here at RWC, we specialize in upgrading and remodeling New Jersey homes so they are both more useful and more beautiful. Give us a call or contact us through our site to learn about our kitchen upgrades, get appliance suggestions, or to have us design an entirely new kitchen that will work for you. We can have your new design created and installed in time for you to use this Thanksgiving if you call us now.
Tile Kitchen Floors For Your NJ Home
Is your kitchen linoleum ragged, or maybe your wooden floors are scuffed and worn out? These are problems that homeowners never encounter with tile kitchen floors.
Why Does Tile Work For Kitchen Floors?
Ease of maintenance is a big plus for homeowners as tile floors are known for their durability and ease of care. Beyond durability, a tile floor in your kitchen needs no special cleaning solutions, are mostly stain resistant, and spills are easily wiped up.
Floor cleaning routines require nothing more than a bucket of water with a mild cleaner added and a sponge mop. When you have tile installed, make sure that it is sealed so the maintenance remains easy and your floors will always look great.
Ease of Repair
Should your tile floor become damaged, you can replace a single tile or a whole row. Once they are laid down, the repair is virtually unnoticeable. Just be sure to give RWC a call to keep your floors looking their best!
Versatility of Material
Tile floors come in many kinds of materials including:
- Vinyl
- Ceramic
- Porcelain
- Stone (Quarry)
Why You Should Tile Your Kitchen Floor
There is not a real estate pro around who can deny that a tile kitchen floor is a sound investment as it increases your home value. Other reasons you should tile your floor include:
- If you have your kitchen heated by radiant heat, tile is a sound choice as it more evenly distributes heat in the room
- Hard tile floors are non-toxic, just make sure your installer uses a non-toxic grout so that your tile floors stay non-toxic
- Tile floors are pet-friendly, both safe and the messes they make around their feeding area or if they have an accident are easily and quickly clean up
- Tile floors do not absorb odors or bacteria
Choosing the Right Tile Material
Smart homeowners do their research before setting out to select their tile choice. Here are some things to consider before you choose.
Quarry stone, such as granite or marble are the most expensive tile for flooring there is, but ceramic and porcelain tiles have all the features of natural stone at a far more affordable price.
Some people use less expensive flooring material with a natural stone backsplash and/or countertops.Conversely, some homeowners may choose to use leftover tile as a bathroom backsplash.
Most of the time, those that choose natural stone only use a single matching color for their kitchen flooring. Natural stone is elegant and understated. On the other hand, ceramic and porcelain come in endless colors and patterns.
Adventurous homeowners may even mix and match tiles – only your imagination limits what can be done with a tile floor from the perspective of design.
If your kitchen is on the small side, use large square tile that tend to open up a small space. For larger kitchens tile size doesn’t make much difference.
The hardness of porcelain flooring is subject to rating by Porcelain Enamel Institute. Choose a rating of Class 3 or Class 4 for kitchen use.
Water resistance is a very important feature for a kitchen floor. If your kitchen is moisture-prone, choose an unglazed tile with a maximum absorption rate of 0.5%. For glazed tiles choose a tile with a maximum rate of 0.3%.When wet, tile floors may become slippery. If this a concern for your home, check out tile flooring that is textured.
For the best selection of tile in the Caldwell, New Jersey area contact the professionals at RWC. At RWC we have an outstanding selection of kitchen flooring of all types. Our installers are experienced tile technicians that will complete your flooring on time, on a budget, and most importantly correctly.
Call us at 973-227-7123 or contact us now to request a quote.
The Best Tips for Kitchen Renovations in New Jersey
HGTV runs hour after hour of kitchen renovation inspiration. And, the more you watch, the dingier your humble abode begins to look. Or, the more must-have’s you realize you have not.
How do you know when the bite of the remodel bug is genuine and when it is a passing spell? When is a redesign worth it? When should you pursue a kitchen renovation in New Jersey? Let’s talk about it.
Why Renovate?
It is likely that there are as many reasons to renovate your kitchen as there are homes on your street. In fact, with enough thought, you can justify any remodel. A few key reasons to pursue such a project include:
Deterioration
Your kitchen screams for your attention. Leaky faucets, scratched or gouged countertops, dinged up or broken cabinet doors, they are all calling for you to help. You can make the list. But, there comes a point when you need to silence the screams with a bit of elbow grease or professional help.
Energy Savings
Opportunities to save money (and the planet) have become increasingly simple. Appliances, light fixtures, faucets and more offer energy-efficient and resourceful options for homeowners. Energy savings boost the investment value of a remodel.
Financial Incentives
With the benefits energy conservation brings to the planet, rebates by the government or vendors and remodeling grants are now common. Sales at home improvement stores, cash rebates on appliances and low-or no-interest loans make renovations more affordable than ever. Tapping into these options gives the incentive to remodel.
Update
Perhaps you moved into someone else’s centuries-old home. Or, the look you loved in the 70s has lost its zing. Either way, moving an outdated kitchen into this century proves a reason to remodel.
Change
Sometimes we just need a change. HGTV inspires homeowners as to the joy a new, clean, fresh kitchen face can bring. And, we buy it nearly every time.
Lifestyle
Your passion for gourmet cooking steadily grew over the years. It may be time your kitchen grew to match. Or, perhaps the current design worked for your once young family, but you have outgrown it along with the sneakers strewn by the front door. A remodel finds what best suits your family’s current needs.
Special Needs
An elderly family member moves in; a child is diagnosed; your health changes. Whatever the reason, your kitchen may require changes to make the space more easily usable for all members of your home. Remodeling for this reason makes those struggling with health issues feel part of the household.
Value
Remodels increase marketability and asking price. In fact, an updated, attractive kitchen proves to be a top selling feature. Renovating this room before the “For Sale” sign goes in the yard boosts your selling power.
How Much to Spend?
Kitchen renovation budgets can run to the moon and back. When planning a project, the dollars spent must be calculated and monitored carefully. If not, you may not be able to afford to entertain or even eat in your new space.
For a frame of reference, most homeowners spend between $11,424 and $29,178 on kitchen remodels.To get you started on a renovation budget, the recommendation is not to spend more than the value of your kitchen as a percentage of your overall house value.
In most cases, a kitchen represents 10 to 15 percent of a home’s value. Therefore, for a $300,000 home, the maximum remodel cost would be $30,000 to $45,000. Also, you should budget 15 to 20 percent more than you expect.
Your budget considerations should also include:
- What you can afford to spend.
- How long you plan to stay in the home.
- The neighborhood's home values.
- The cost of temporarily relocating or eating out.
A few additional tips:
- Understand the biggest ways to save.
- Stick to your budget.
- Find a great contractor.
- Do your homework.
When to Renovate
The ideal time to remodel your kitchen comes when you have a thorough plan and you are budget ready. Beyond that, your location may dictate the best time of year to start a project. Consider the following factors while determining when to renovate:
Supply and Demand
Identify when building materials fall at their best prices. Planning ahead allows you to purchase materials at the lowest costs and store them until the project begins. This tactic also saves the headache of time delays.
Contractor Availability
As might seem obvious, a contractor’s busiest season may not prove the best time for him or her to handle your remodel. However, realistically, offseason is not always practical for certain projects. Planning helps you contact professionals and hire them before the curve.
Season
Kitchen remodels offer some flexibility as to the season. However, no matter when you chose to renovate, contacting contractors a month or two before the seasonal rush proves wise. This timing is affected by where you live and the extent of the remodel.
RWC has relieved home improvement stress since 1959. We would love to talk kitchen remodel ideas. Call us today or visit us on the web for your free consultation.