Effective Kitchen
Renovation in Toronto
If you are planning to renovate your kitchen, you’ll want to
ensure that the money you invest is used wisely, and that the end result
provides you with a kitchen space that is as close to perfect as you can
imagine. Unfortunately, many Toronto homeowners who decide to renovate
experience lengthy delays, cost overruns, and a final result that is less than
ideal – not to mention more stress than they’d ever anticipated. How can you
avoid renovation pitfalls and make sure that your experience is a good one? Read
on for tips for effective kitchen renovation.
Know What You Want
Before beginning work with a design consultant, do some
research and thinking of your own. Set a budget for the renovation, and ensure
that your family members are all on-board.
Next, think about how you’d like your kitchen to look, and
what sorts of features you’d like to include. Are you envisioning a whole-scale
redo that involves tearing down walls and completely transforming the space? Or
merely an update of cabinets and/or countertops? Will you be replacing
appliances? Or do you want to accommodate your existing stove, fridge, and
dishwasher? Does what you want correspond to the budget you’ve set? (Remember
to include a contingency fund in the budget in case unexpected issues arise.)
Familiarize yourself with the types of options available. If
storage space is a problem in your kitchen, investigate space-saving cabinets
such as pull-out pantries and lazy susans. If you are hoping to make the
kitchen more user-friendly, check out additions such as an island with stools,
a breakfast nook, or a window seat.
Come to your design consultation with a list of
possibilities and a list of questions. Make sure you understand everything the
designer is telling you about.
Work with the Right
Company
How can you know what company will be right for you? Never
simply opt for the lowest estimate without considering other important aspects
of the job. Here are some attributes of good renovation companies:
- The company has an integrated process from design through manufacture to installation.
There is a clear line of responsibility and a single, easy-to-understand
timeline. Communication is maximized and quality control is excellent.
- The company employs personnel who are experienced, knowledgeable, and skilled.Designers are knowledgeable about all of the options available to you and
recent design trends. Manufacturers are skilled in the use of state-of-the-art
technology. Installers are dependable, able to deal quickly and effectively
with any issues that arise, and respectful of your family while in your home.
- The company provides a warranty for its work, preferably one that spans five-years.
- The company’s showroom offers a wide variety of options; from cabinet
materials to door edges in a variety of finishes and colours, from hinges to
handles, knobs, and pulls.
- The company is trustworthy. Look for a reliable family-owned company that commits
to using local and Canadian materials, and that supports Toronto charities.
Check to make sure the company belongs to reputable organizations such as the Canadian
Kitchen Cabinet Association.
Do your homework, ask questions, and choose well. Having an
effective kitchen renovation and the kitchen of your dreams is within your
reach!