When taking the jump to do a kitchen remodel that includes a room addition be
sure to take some time to understand how the remodeling process and addition
work. Before you even shop for cabinets or flooring do your homework. This will
help immensely to ensure the project runs smoothly. When planning a room
addition, spending time looking at all your options and deciding what choices to
make is critical.
For illustration: where are you planning to situate the room addition? How large
should the addition be? Deciding how large is an important issue in keeping
within the guidelines of your budget and any zoning restrictions or codes. How
do you want the lay out to be? Do you want to lose you 100 year old oak tree or
tear up your deck These are all things to consider before you start you
addition. Choosing the right contractor is the number one thing and his
expertise should be in the area of the design you want to incorporate into your
existing home. Contractors do not all have experience with building foundations,
blending your 1800's home with new construction and other issues that are sure
to come up. In room additions it is well worth your money to get an architect
involved. The architect is responsible for preparing floor plan layouts,
understanding zoning issues, kitchen design goals and other issues. Often, but
not always, contractors have their own architect on staff but it might be wise
to just go ahead and hire your own.
Be sure to look for contractors that are accustomed to your house's style and
age. This is particularly important if you are dealing with an old or historical
home. Make sure he has worked on projects in your area and is familiar with
local zoning codes, is licensed and insured. Be sure to get the all important
referrals and follow up with checking them out.
Keep focus on your primary desire and do not be sidetracked by other peoples'
suggestions for your home. Remember the original reason you are doing the
addition, how you will use the space and what the top five priorities are.
Always get estimates and list of cost on everything you are planning on doing so
there will not be any surprises. Your beautiful vision will become a nightmare
if you run out of cash mid stream. keep everything on track with good timing
which is one of the responsibility's of your contractor. Never rush anything in
your excitement to get things rolling.
Listen to your senses and if you do not feel right about something stop and give
yourself some time to think about it. You will be glad in the long run with no
"I wished I had listened to my gut!" Knowing why you are remodeling makes all
the difference in how you spend your money. If you are just flipping a house you
might not have as detailed ceiling fans, light switches, etc. or top quality
appliances. If this is to be your life time home be sure to buy good quality
that you really want and will be proud of.
This is a big step and should be fun and full of enthusiasm and not something to
be dreaded. Just take one step at a time and fulfill your vision your way with
the images of many happy years in your home.
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