A kitchen renovation is one of the most considerable factors when it comes to buying a property as a project. That is primarily because contemporary kitchen designs are relatively larger. Since they are often the hub of family life. And when it comes to older properties, they might be dark and pokey and made simply as a space for cooking.

Having said that, a kitchen is generally one of the most difficult spaces to deal with when renovating a home. Specifically if you are planning a multi-functional space that functions as dining, socializing, and living space, as well as a place for preparing food.

You can use this guide to walk you through the basics of kitchen renovation projects. This includes planning a design and even extending your house, electrics, plumbing, heating, and more.

Structural Changes for Your Kitchen Renovations

As part of the kitchen renovation. If you are looking to make a small space bigger, you will need to carry out some structural changes to your home. That might involve building an extension or perhaps knocking through to convert individual smaller spaces into a bigger one.

Based on the kind of extension and the complexity of the design you want. You will have some options in who will design and build your extension. In general, an architect is a common option for a more practical design. Architectural technologists, as well as design and build companies, might provide simple but useful house extension ideas.

You should note that a small kitchen extension. May also be transformative to space, enabling you to fit in a snug or dining table where that room was just a kitchen before. Side return extensions are very popular when it comes to terraced and semi-detached properties.

Knocking down internal walls will need a structural engineer and a builder in case the wall is load-bearing. They’ll calculate appropriate measurements for steel inserts. To be applied for supporting the floor’s weight safely, according to Building Regulations. More often than not, a sign off will be needed by a Building Control inspector.

Should you ask the kitchen company to handle your kitchen renovation?

You might realize that a few kitchen fitting companies will manage and oversee the comprehensive range of tradespeople that you require for renovating a kitchen – this includes plumbers and electricians. You can also find a local kitchen fitter or builder who might do the job for less.
Word of mouth referrals might often be an effective starting point to choosing a local kitchen fitter. However, you’ll need to take your time to research how long that company has been in business. Whether they have the relevant credentials or are insured and the subcontractors they use.

It would be prudent to find a few different contractors’ estimates. Before deciding the final candidate since this will help you to get the most value for your money. It will also help to determine if your final budget is manageable or needs cutbacks. It would be best to find out earlier than to realize later that you are on the wrong side of debt.

Buying kitchen appliances

You may purchase everything for your new kitchen including work surface, cabinets, ovens, splashbacks and white goods (dishwasher and fridge freezer) from the one firm.

Nonetheless, if you got the time, it is recommended that you shop around to guarantee that you get the best price. Although you may get a work surface cheaper somewhere, you’ll then have to plan its installation. Shopping around is specifically worthwhile for white goods. Optimize your spending power by being cautious for upcoming sales (mostly around Easter or in the post-Christmas period).

Hire a structural engineer or an architect

In case your renovation entails knocking down your structural wall – maybe to combine two rooms to have the desired open plan kitchen space – it would be best to speak to an architect or work with a structural engineer and a builder who can give you advice on the best course of action and ensure you get building regulation approval.

You might also need to consider employing an architect, especially if you’re working on a major project. Architects usually add approximately 15% to the project’s cost and although you’re not needed to have them for any jobs, they can always guarantee a better result in case your new kitchen plans demand a huge departure from the existing space.

Paying for your kitchen renovation

It’s often recommended that you have your kitchen company offer you an all-inclusive breakdown of costs. These might include any ‘hidden’ surcharges associating with electrics, removals, painting, plumbing, flooring, and so on) so that you may cut your budget accordingly.

Don’t pay over 25% deposit before everything gets delivered. This is in case a company delivers damaged goods and they subsequently deny to replace or even goes out of business in the interim.