Kitchen Remodeling FAQs and Kitchen Design Questions

How long does a kitchen remodeling project typically take from start to finish?
To be frank, “it depends.” The scope of a kitchen remodeling project dictates how long the project will take. For example, if you are removing a wall or two to expand into adjoining areas, or bumping out a few feet to open up the kitchen—both of which are very common trends now—the actual construction will obviously take a little bit longer.

Here’s a sample timeline, for illustration purposes only, of a kitchen remodeling project that does not include removing or adding walls (overlapping times may apply):

Meet with a Kitchen Designer for a Design Consultation and get proposal – 2 weeks.
Meet at our Cape Cod or Greater Boston showroom, finalize the scope of the project and the terms of a Remodeling Agreement – 2 to 3 weeks.
Select all the materials for the project – 1 to 4 weeks.
Building permit applied for and approved – 1 to 3 weeks.
Materials are ordered and delivered – 6 to 8 weeks.
Demolition and removal of old materials and appliances – 1 week
Installation of new materials and appliances, flooring, plumbing, electrical work and painting – 4 to 5 weeks
Finishing touches and clean up – 1 to 2 weeks.

What do I need to do to prepare for my kitchen renovation?
You can start by establishing a good idea for the type of look and style you desire. Flip through the many kitchen and ‘shelter’ magazines and websites to get some design ideas. You will probably find that you are drawn to similar finishes and aesthetics. Then, contact us for a kitchen design consultation. We’ll spend a lot of time determining what ‘works’, and what doesn’t for you and your family’s lifestyle. We will transition you through all steps of the process, with noticeable milestones marking all of your decisions to help make the project less overwhelming. Each project will be assigned a certified Project Manager-who will run the day to day operations of your remodel. Generally speaking, before construction begins, you’ll want to clear out the area being worked on of all your personal belongings and we will help set up a ‘temporary kitchen’ for the family’s use.

What is the typical workflow for a kitchen renovation?
Below is a list of what is typical, and why the work is so detailed. Our ‘Builder Trend’ program allows you to follow along online, to see what’s happening, and when, throughout your remodeling project.

Create design
Select materials
Order materials
Deliver materials
Demolition
Sub floor preparation
Flooring installation
Plumbing
Electric
Wall preparation
Priming and painting
Cabinet installation
Locating appliances
Countertop template
Countertop fabrication
Countertop installation
Sink and faucet installation
Appliance installation
Backsplash installation
Light fixture installation
Accessories installation
Door hardware installation
Final coat of paint
Touch up items

What can I expect to spend and what features will I spend more of my money on?
You should expect to spend, on average, 8% to 12% of your home’s value on your kitchen remodel, not including appliances. From a functional standpoint, cabinetry is probably the most expensive item in the kitchen, mainly because of its sheer volume, and the installation of such. (An expensive kitchen can look awful, if not installed properly). Cabinet costs are followed by appliances, countertops, and flooring. What you don’t want to forget are the little things that add up, such as plumbing, electrical, plaster, paint, tile, etc. This is where your designer will help to guide you through the process of choosing your selections such that your money is spent wisely.

What type of return on investment can I expect from remodeling my kitchen if I sell my home?
While the United States in an economic recession and the housing market is in turmoil, spending money on a kitchen remodel might seem scary. Yet while home prices have declined, a kitchen remodel continues to add value to your home, depending on where you live and how you spend your dollars. According to the 2008-09 Cost vs. Value Report*, kitchen remodels rank just after siding and window replacement—both of which tend to be "must-do" rather than "nice-to-do" projects—in return on investment. The average ROI nationally averages 87% in today’s market. In metropolitan areas, the numbers climb higher. This number represents what you can recoup selling your home within one year. Living in your home and amortizing the remodeling cost over a longer period of time (5 years or more) virtually guarantees a 100% ROI. Remodeling your kitchen is a great value in the much sought out Cape Cod area and Boston suburbs.