Do-It-Yourself Kitchen Renovations
Kitchen renovations are easiest if you utilize the same footprint. This way, you can install new appliances or cabinets that fit in the old slots. Look over the kitchen to see what you like or don't like to ensure you make changes that will please you. If you need more countertop space, for example, be sure your plan makes the necessary changes. Renovate your new kitchen to function well, not just look better visually. Spend time going over kitchen design books and remodeling magazines to ensure that you have lots of options. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Kitchen design books
- Kitchen remodeling magazines
- Measuring tape
- Graph paper
- Sketchpad
- Appliances
- Cabinetry
- Flooring material
- Interior doors
- Baseboard materials
- Light fixtures
- Plantation blinds
- Shelving
- Artwork
Instructions
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Measure the kitchen and design its layout on graph paper. Draw various layouts to define the best use of floor space and wall areas. Figure out what needs to change in the present layout to add counter space, extra storage or room for bigger appliances. Sketch each wall facade, too, so you can define how to place cabinets around windows and door openings. Add a kitchen island, bigger windows or any structural changes.
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Create a budget and select materials to buy. Determine what types of appliances to purchase, and decide if flooring will be tile, vinyl or wood. Visit a home improvement store to determine which cabinets will fit the budget. Choose exact wall colors and window treatments, too. Draw the overall design of the room with colored pencils, so you will gain an idea of the final outcome.
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Plan the remodel in stages. Paint upper walls and install new upper cabinets as one remodeling phase, for example. Remove the old stove and replace it with a new range, plus surrounding cabinets as another phase. Disconnect plumbing and electricity with the family schedule in mind. Tear out old flooring and haul if off as one stage of the renovation. Redo the sink wall and surrounding cabinets as one phase, depending on what works for you.
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Install flooring last to prevent paint drips and scratches. Lay tile before hanging any new interior doors in the kitchen area or installing baseboards. Paint the baseboards before they are nailed in place to prevent the labor of painting on your knees.
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Finish up details and add decorative touches. Install new light fixtures, plantation blinds and shelving in the kitchen, according to your tastes. Add framed prints, special collections of art objects or a rack of hanging copper pots. Keep in mind that the beauty of your renovated kitchen will benefit from the stamp of your own individuality. Use some unique features of the house itself to enhance the kitchen. Leave an exposed brick wall, for example, if your house is a 1940s bungalow. Rewire an old light fixture original to the house to use over a small kitchen table.
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Tips & Warnings
Use the microwave in the dining room for family meals while the room is under construction.
Think through the process of every stage of the remodel, so you can work in an organized fashion.
Hire a plumber and an electrician to do professional upgrades. Safety issues can arise from trying to do these types of jobs yourself, not to mention that city codes may require professionals to do the work.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
