Q & A
Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.
How do I hire a contractor for a kitchen remodel?
The secret to hiring the best contractor(s) for your kitchen remodel is to compare several professionals’ customer reviews, ratings, specialities, services and prices. You can do this by searching online for the best kitchen remodelers near you.
When you search online, you can quickly view important information about the contractors on their profiles. Read through the customer reviews, and look for profiles that feature before-and-after photos from the contractor, as well as their past clients. Inspect those photos closely to gauge the contractors’ craftsmanship.
You should also make sure the contractor is properly licensed and insured in your area. Some state governments regulate licensure for contractors, while some don’t. Check licensing requirements in your state.
Before you hire anyone, contact at least contractors to discuss the scope of your kitchen remodel. And request written estimates from each contractor.
What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel?
The average cost of a kitchen remodel is $12,961. However, you should always get a cost estimate from a general contractor or kitchen remodeler near you when planning your renovations.
The cost of upgrading your kitchen depends on a variety of factors. The first is whether you’re doing a small, medium or large remodel. Where you live also matters, with expensive cities correlating with more expensive kitchen renovation costs. The cost will also increase if you’re altering the footprint of your kitchen, changing the location of plumbing and fixtures and/or installing expensive materials like granite countertops.
To learn more about kitchen remodeling costs, read “How much does a kitchen remodel cost?”
Is it worth it to remodel a kitchen?
Remodeling or renovating your kitchen can be worth the time, effort and money — especially if you plan to sell your home. A kitchen remodel is among the most appealing types of remodeling projects for potential buyers, according to the National Association of Realtors. In fact, some realtors report that a kitchen remodel has helped close a sale. This type of remodeling is also valuable because it can build a stronger desire to be in your home.
Contact the best kitchen remodelers near you to get started on your project.
Where do I start when remodeling a kitchen?
When preparing to remodel a kitchen, start your planning process with the space planning phase. Before worrying about what the kitchen will look like, focus on where things will be located for workflow and function. In what order will your sink, stovetop and countertop go? Where will the refrigerator be? Then, you can start thinking about the materials, appliances and overall design for your kitchen.
If you have a solid idea of the design you want, contact multiple kitchen remodeling contractors and services to find out how much your project will likely cost and which professional is best-suited for the project.
How can I save money on my kitchen remodel?
To keep your kitchen remodel costs as low as possible, avoid making changes after construction has begun. This will reduce the amount of wasted time and material on the part of the contractor and help you avoid extra charges.
Double-check all measurements to make sure you order the right size appliances, cabinets and materials. Also, try to work within your existing kitchen’s footprint to avoid having to pay a plumber or electrician to completely redo your layout.
Research all of your options for flooring, tiles, countertops and appliances. Try to get an expert’s opinion before purchasing any material if you’re unsure about the quality.
Finally, get a few cost estimates from at least three contractors near you before you hire anyone to take on your project.
What should you not do in a kitchen remodel?
Common mistakes in kitchen remodeling include choosing fragile or low-quality materials and appliances. Attempting to DIY the entire renovation is another mistake, especially if you lack the expertise and training to do so.
A few other mistakes include:
- Not setting a budget
- Not thoroughly researching your options for materials, kitchen appliances, etc.
- Not comparing cost estimates from multiple contractors, electricians, plumbers, etc.
- Not measuring the areas in your kitchen, as well as the desired appliances
If you’re not sure where to start, contact a top-rated kitchen remodeler who can help you plan your kitchen remodel.
Do I need a contractor for a kitchen remodel?
A kitchen remodel is one of the most important investments you can make in your home, and it’s critical to get the details right; that’s where a home renovation contractor comes in. A minor remodel usually includes new cabinet faces and hardware, replacement appliances, and paint, while an extensive job may enlarge the kitchen’s square footage, install new cabinets or an island, change the layout, and lay new tile or hardwood floors. Any renovation that includes filing permits, construction, or electrical or plumbing work is best completed by an experienced contractor who knows local codes.
Reviews for Spokane Valley kitchen remodelers
Troy C.
Robert was very knowledgeable and helpful with ideas for my kitchen remodel. Very informative and has great communication. I’m sure I will use him in the future and will refer him.
Doug T.
They did a amazing job with my counter remodel and found some amazing teak countertops. They are a beautiful first step in the kitchen remodel limited to one project at a time until it’s paid off. I couldn’t have asked for better contractors. Rob was amazing and very prompt. A pleasure to work with.
Courtney B.
My husband and I had our kitchen and master bathroom remodeled by RH and Sons this fall. We went into the project with a vision of what we wanted and it came out exactly as planned. RH and Sons listened to our requests and executed them beautifully. Their professionalism went above and beyond to make sure our end product was exactly what we wanted. The crew are all friendly and thoughtful and great at their jobs. We received regular updates and check ins that allowed us to hear about and see the progress. They are quick to respond to any call or text which is a rarity that we truly appreciated. We are very happy with our kitchen and bathroom and even happier that we went with RH and Sons.
Jennifer B.
We originally contacted Robert about kitchen soffit and wall cabinet removal due to being unsure how to contain the mess around our small children when doing it ourselves. Not only was the work reasonably priced, the mess was 99% contained and what spill over there was ended up being taken care of by Aaron as well. Since then, they have opened a partition wall with a pass through and begun the basically full remodel of the kitchen. We have had Robert, Aaron and Dustin out and each have been able to give advice on our ideas, explain different options and why something may not work or would be unnecessary in the long run. They are honest and upfront about pricing and timeframes along with making sure each step is finished correctly and, in my opinion, flawlessly. They are open to discussing any changes to design and have the experience to give advice on the big picture while not neglecting the little details.
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