How To Plan A Kitchen Remodel For Your Home

The kitchen is an important space in your home and it often draws the attention of your guests. Redoing your kitchen can be a great way to update its appearance and modernize your house. 

But before remodeling the kitchen in your home, you need to plan out the project. At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are known for providing beautiful and quality kitchen remodeling services in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas in Pennsylvania. 

In this quick guide, we will discuss how to plan a kitchen remodel for your home so you have a plan in place before getting started. To discuss your kitchen remodeling project with our professionals, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660.

How Long Does It Take To Remodel A Kitchen?

The first thing you should think about when planning a kitchen remodel is the amount of time it takes. Completing a kitchen remodel generally takes 4 to 8 weeks.  

The exact duration of your kitchen remodel directly depends on your kitchen size, the remodel's extent, the availability of the materials, and any extra modifications you plan to add. 

Having a solid plan in place can help you understand and prepare for the timeline of your specific project. 

How to Plan for Your Kitchen Remodel

Now, if you are ready to remodel your kitchen, you have to plan everything step by step. Here, we will discuss some of the important considerations for planning your kitchen remodel.

#1 Assess Your Current Kitchen Layout

Before you start remodeling your kitchen, take time to check what works and what doesn't in your current layout. Think about how you use your kitchen daily and identify pain points that need improvement. 

Consider the placement of your appliances, the flow between work zones, and whether you have enough counter and storage space.

#2 Set a Realistic Budget

Your budget will guide every decision in your kitchen remodel. Start by calculating how much you can comfortably spend on redoing your kitchen. 

Remember to set aside 10% to 20% of your budget for unexpected issues that might come up during the construction process. This will help you avoid any financial stress if the contractors find surprises behind the walls or under the floors.

#3 Design Your New Layout

When redoing a kitchen, the layout is crucial for both functionality and comfort. Consider whether you want to keep your current layout or completely transform the space. The classic work triangle (connecting the sink, stove, and refrigerator) is a common option, but modern kitchens often benefit from designated zones for cooking, cleaning, and food prep.

#4 Choose Your Style and Theme

Your kitchen should reflect your personal style while complementing your home's overall design. Browse magazines, websites, and social media for inspiration. 

Whether you prefer modern, traditional, farmhouse, or modern design, make sure your choices create a cohesive look that you'll love for years to come.

#5 Plan for Storage Solutions

Smart storage is very important for a well-functioning kitchen. Think about how you'll organize your cookware, small appliances, and pantry items. 

Consider features like pull-out shelves, drawer dividers, and corner cabinet solutions to maximize your storage space and keep everything easily accessible.

But keep in mind that newer appliances and upgraded storage can come at a higher price. 

How Much Does It Generally Cost To Remodel A Kitchen?

When planning your kitchen renovation or remodel project, understanding the costs involved will drive every decision you make. 

On average, a complete kitchen remodel costs around $15,000 to $65,000, depending on your location, the materials chosen, and the scope of work. 

The cost generally breaks down into a few categories: cabinets (30% to 35%), appliances (20%), countertops (10% to 15%), installation (15% to 20%), and the remaining going toward lighting, flooring, walls, and doors. 

If you're working with a smaller budget, you can lower costs by keeping your current layout, refinishing rather than replacing cabinets or choosing more affordable materials. These budget-friendly options can still result in a new, updated kitchen but at a fraction of the cost. 

How to Choose What Materials and Features You Want In Your New Kitchen

A full kitchen remodel involves many things, and choosing the right material and feature for every element of your kitchen is important. Below we will walk you through common choices for the different elements in your kitchen.

#1 Cabinets

Starting with your kitchen cabinets, consider both style and durability when making your decision. 

Stock cabinets are generally affordable, while semi-custom and custom cabinets provide more options in terms of size and design features. 

You should look for cabinet options with solid wood frames and doors, sturdy drawer boxes, and quality hardware for long-lasting performance.

#2 Countertops 

Your kitchen countertops need to look good and handle daily use. 

Granite is tough, and each piece has its own unique pattern, making your kitchen one-of-a-kind. Quartz is super strong and easy to clean, perfect if you want something low-maintenance. 

If you like a cozy feel, butcher block countertops bring warmth to your kitchen, but you'll need to take care of them regularly. On a tighter budget? Laminate countertops come in many designs and won't be harsh on your pockets.

Also Read: Different Types Of Countertops (Most Popular To Least)

#3 Flooring

Your kitchen floor needs to handle a lot - spills, foot traffic, and dropped items. Porcelain tile is a great choice because it's tough and water won't damage it. Luxury vinyl is another good option that's easier on your wallet and comfortable to walk on. 

Hardwood floors look beautiful but need extra care in the kitchen because of water and spills. Natural stone is pricey but extremely durable and adds a sophisticated touch to your kitchen.

#4 Appliances

When choosing appliances, think about what you really need. Don't just go for space-consuming, large appliances. Rather, choose sizes that make sense for your family. Think about which features you'll actually use when cooking.

Make sure your appliances match each other and your kitchen's overall look. Remember, the right appliances can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. You can also look for Energy Star labels to save on your bills. 

#5 Lighting

Good lighting helps you cook safely and makes your kitchen look great. You’ll likely need bright lights over areas where you cook and prep food. 

Add general lighting to brighten the whole room, and special lights can show off nice features in your kitchen. 

If you can, try to get more natural light through windows, it makes your kitchen feel more welcoming and can help save on electricity during the day.

#6 Ventilation

A good fan system keeps your kitchen fresh and comfortable. Choose a range hood that's strong enough for your cooking style. Make sure it vents outside to remove cooking smells and steam. Think about how loud the fan is, you don't want it to be too noisy when you're cooking.  

Choose a style that looks good with your kitchen's design but still does its job well.

#7 Electrical and Plumbing

Every kitchen needs the right setup for power and water. Think about all your appliances and where you'll use them. Put plenty of electrical outlets where you'll need them and install special safety outlets near sinks and water sources. 

Plan where your sink and dishwasher will go so water pipes are in the right spots. If you're using gas appliances, make sure gas lines are installed safely.

Bonus Tip! Timeline and Project Management

Good planning helps your kitchen remodel go smoothly. Here are some tips: 

• Work with your contractor to make a clear schedule for the project. 
• Order everything you need early to avoid waiting around. 
• Stay in touch with your contractors about what's happening. 
• Set up a temporary kitchen so you can still make meals during the remodel. 
• Add some extra time to your schedule, renovation and remodel projects often take longer than expected.

If you’re ready to start planning your kitchen remodel, our contractors are here to help you take the first steps. 

Professional Kitchen Remodeling In Pennsylvania

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your trusted home improvement contractors in Pennsylvania.

We provide high-quality kitchen remodeling in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, bringing over years of experience to every project we take on.

From helping you choose the perfect materials to precise installation, we guide you through every step of the remodeling process with attention to detail and dedication to quality that has earned us the trust of many homeowners throughout Pennsylvania.

Our team is here to handle everything from the design consultation to the final cleanup, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

For a no-obligation discussion with professionals or for a free estimate, reach out to us today at (412) 353-5660.