Kitchen Remodel: Pro-Tips

Perhaps you've just moved into a new home, or you've lived in your house for a while and you feel like it's time for a change. Whatever the case may be, a kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to update your home and increase its resale value.

After all, if you're like most Norfolk County homeowners, you likely spend the majority of your time in the kitchen. It's where you prepare meals, entertain friends and family, help your kids with homework and even spend part of your work day to make a change from the home office.

When it comes to giving the space a makeover, you don't necessarily have to do a complete renovation—although, depending on the space you may need to. There are a number of ways you can transform the room, no matter what your budget is.

Read on to learn a few of the expert kitchen remodel tips from the pros at Mr. Handyman of Central - Eastern Norfolk County and S.Shore. We'll help bring your dream kitchen to life in no time.

1. Research Ideas

Before starting a kitchen project, you should have a clear idea of what you want. This will help your kitchen renovation stay on track and ensure you get the aesthetic you were looking for. It's also helpful for your contractor to have an idea of what you want done in the space. Try looking at photos on Pinterest or Instagram, putting them on a “Kitchen Design Board” or in your Instagram Saves. You can also print off photos you like and have a hard-copy mood board.

2. Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the easiest ways to transform any space is by painting its walls. While you can hire a professional to do this for you, it's also an easy DIY project. This is your opportunity to put your own stamp on your kitchen. However, if you're thinking of selling within the next five years, you might want to consider using neutral tones. These work best for prospective homeowners to let them envision living in your home. Good neutrals include: gray, beige, tan and off-white.

3. Cabinet Refacing, Painting & Finishing

Your kitchen cabinets take up the most real space in your kitchen, so giving them a little face lift can make a huge impact on the overall aesthetic. Usually, if the cabinets' interiors are in good shape you don't need to replace them. Instead, consider one of these three options:

Refacing

This is when you replace all your cabinet doors. It's a great option if you want to replace synthetic doors with wood, or if the doors are in poor condition and need to be swapped out for newer models.

Refinishing

If your cabinet doors are solid wood, then you could refinish them, so they look good as new. This involves removing the doors, sanding them down, covering them in a stain of your choice and following-up with a coat of varnish. Please note: only solid wood can be stained.

Painting

By far the most versatile option, a range of cabinet materials can be painted—including wood, engineered wood and even vinyl. In terms of colors, the world is your oyster! But once again, if you're planning to sell, neutrals are a good bet; white cabinets or gray cabinets tend to be good options.

Custom Cabinets

When it comes to Mr. Handyman of Central - Eastern Norfolk County and S.Shore, many of our skilled technicians are also excellent carpenters. If the above options are not quite cutting it for you, why not get brand-new, custom cabinets created by our pro team? That way you have complete control over your kitchen's storage and cabinet aesthetic.

4. Replace Outdated Appliances

If your appliances are more than 10 or 15 years old, it's time to replace them. Not only will your fridge and/or dishwasher start to break down with age, but there are so many improvements on modern appliances that are worthwhile updating for. For instance, if you're an avid baker, then an oven with a warming drawer will help you make the perfect cinnamon buns each time.

5. Update Tile Backsplashes

The focal point in many kitchens is the backsplash. Over time, this area may start looking a little dingy. Stains from splashing soups and sauces, deteriorating grout and outdated colors will all make your kitchen look worse for wear. An easy way to give the room a boost is by updating the backsplash. Consider glass tile backsplashes for a touch of luxury, ceramic tiles for durability and a classic white backsplash if you're thinking of selling your home.

6. Consider Lighting

How your space is illuminated makes a world of difference. Even a beautifully renovated kitchen may look dim and dingy if it's not adequately lighted. Interior designers layer three types of light fixtures to maximize a space's aesthetic. These three kinds of lighting are:

• Ambient Lighting: Is the main source of light, it usually takes the form of an overhead lamp or chandelier.

• Accent Lighting: Rounds out and provides depth to the ambient light. An example could be lights under your cabinets or a nearby lamp.

• Task Lighting: As implied by the name, task lights illuminate an area dedicated to a specific task. For example, the light above your stove would be a task light.

7. Invest in Quality Fixtures

The difference between a high-quality fixture and one from the bargain aisle is significant. If you don't really use your kitchen too often, then it's likely not worthwhile to fork out a little extra for greater quality. But if you love to cook or spend a lot of time in the kitchen, then it is a worthwhile investment. Consider a high-quality kitchen faucet, or a stunning farmhouse sink to add those high-end touches.

Hire Our Home Improvement Pros Today!

Whether you're planning a major kitchen remodel or a minor kitchen remodel, the team at Mr. Handyman of Mr. Handyman of Central - Eastern Norfolk County and S.Shore are the service professionals for the job. Our technicians have years of experience completing a wide range of jobs—from tile installation to building custom cabinets. We’re also known for our dedication to customer service, and are honored to serve clients throughout Norfolk County, including in Marshfield, Duxbury and Westwood.

To book an appointment today, we invite you to call our friendly customer service representatives at 508-465-2092.