Kitchen Renovations Every Homeowner Should Consider

For most, a kitchen renovation is the most expensive renovation they will do on their home. However, a kitchen renovation significantly increases the owner’s quality of life, and the homes return on investment. Renovating your kitchen will make the heart of your home a place for gathering and memories. Consider the following kitchen renovations that will enhance your home:

Quality Flooring

The flooring in your kitchen puts up with a lot of stress. Back and forth traffic, spills, and debris left behind will make an impact on the quality of your flooring. If you are looking for a total kitchen renovation, start with quality flooring. Laminate flooring is designed to imitate the look of wood or tile. Laminate is very durable with a smaller price attached. Vinyl is also a good option that is extremely tolerant to stains, damage, and water issues. Tile is a more expensive option, but it is very durable and easy to maintain. When taken care of properly, tile can outlast the life of your kitchen. Quality flooring will make a big difference in supporting your cabinetry and appliances. Never underestimate the functional and aesthetic benefits of good flooring.

Energy Efficient Appliances

Today, there are appliances that can suit every individual’s needs. Appliances have come a long way with the development of technology. Energy efficient appliances increase performance and decrease utility bills. An energy star rating means the appliance has met the criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy. For example, qualified refrigerators are at least 15% more efficient than the minimum federal standard. Investing in energy efficient appliances will save you money in the long run while reducing your carbon footprint.

Replace the Countertops

Kitchen countertops are the most used surface in your home. Replacing the countertops can be expensive. Therefore, you should invest in quality material that will last. The amount you end up paying for your countertops ultimately depends on the material you choose. For example, granite, marble, wood, or quartz are different options that will impact your budget. Quartz is as strong as granite but is easier to install due to flexibility. Wood, concrete, porcelain, and travertine countertop prices tend to be more budget friendly but have a shorter lifespan. Laminate counters are more affordable, but often lack quality and visual appeal. Ultimately you should choose the material that matches your overall aesthetic and is a high-quality material within the range of your budget.

Install New Cabinets

One of the most expensive parts of a kitchen remodel is the cabinets. Replacement cabinets cost an average of $15,000. However, quality cabinets are designed to outlive your appliances. If your appliances are old and outdated, it is difficult to perform many of the necessary functions in a kitchen. Surface area and storage is critical in a kitchen. Consider cabinet finishes and shelving options. Pull out shelves reduce frustration when you need to grab items from your cabinets. New cabinets are a high investment for life-long quality.

Update Your Backsplash

The backsplash in your kitchen is necessary for protecting walls and cabinets. Your backsplash catches and deflects splatters, splashes, and other messes. A backsplash not only protects your walls, but it is also easier to clean when a mess is made. A good backsplash will also make an aesthetic statement. It is the little details like a tile backsplash that really enhance a kitchen. The splash can add character and depth to your kitchen. Make sure your backsplash and your kitchen countertops complement each other to tie the look together. The material you use will be just as important as the color. This will ensure the effectiveness and durability of your kitchen.

Update Plumbing

A kitchen remodel is the perfect time to update your kitchen’s plumbing. Common plumbing issues that occur during the life of your home include low water pressure or hard water. You can increase water pressure and add filters that prevent hard water. Updated plumbing will prevent leaks from your faucets, sink or dishwasher. New plumbing will also give more room in your pipes, decreasing the risk of clogged plumbing. When you update your plumbing, you can also update your kitchen sink to a farmhouse style, giving you ample room to wash dishes. Changing out water fixtures will give you a trendy and more efficient area to clean up.

Increase Storage

When remodeling a kitchen, it is wise to consider ways you can increase functionality. Consider your lifestyle and what is important to you. One way you can increase functionality is by increasing your storage space. Cabinets are a great storage solution. You can also increase storage inside your pantry. A walk-in pantry that is designed well will give you plenty of room to store food and kitchen gadgets. A pantry also keeps the counter from getting crowded with items that do not have a place. Adding extra storage space and built-in shelving will significantly improve the functionality of your home.

Improve Organization

One of the most organized places in your home should be your kitchen. It is easy for cabinets to become messy and overcrowded. Organization will keep the cookware clean and cabinets in good condition. Make a general list of the items you have in your kitchen. This will help you determine storage solutions and where to put items. Make sure you utilize every nook and cranny to optimize storage space. Everything should have a place. If it doesn’t, you need to consider whether or not you actually need it. Cookware organizers, pull out trash cans, tray dividers, and food storage solutions will go a long way in cleaning up and changing the presentation of your kitchen.

Your kitchen is where you will spend the most time with your family and friends creating memories. Pick quality products that fit your aesthetic so you can enjoy this space for years to come. Upgrade your old kitchen to make your new one work better for you, prevent issues, and increase your home’s value.

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