You’ve settled on a budget, made all the big decisions, you’ve found the most amazing natural stone, quartz or ultra-compact countertops, and now it’s time for demolition. Between the huge expense of remodeling your kitchen and anticipating the finished product, it’s only natural to feel some apprehensions. Knowing what to expect can help put to rest your fears and prepare you for the countertop project ahead.
1. The Dust
Even with the most elaborate zipwalls installed, a fine layer of dust can still gather in areas far from the construction site. Projects like demolishing walls, talking apart cabinets and removing tile can produce particles which could pose threat to your family’s health. And while your crew has a solid strategy for containing and removing the dust from your home, it’s absolutely appropriate to do some kind of mitigation during the project.
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Before work begins, remove everything you can from the kitchen area. If you can’t remove it, cover it completely with plastic to prevent dust and debris from getting into the cracks and crevices. Isolate the area as much as possible, put up plastic or even a temporary compression wall to help keep the rest of your home safe. Skip using the furnace and air conditioner as much as you can, or completely block the warm-air and cold-air returns in the kitchen to avoid pulling dust from the construction site out.
2. The Noise
From whining saws to scratching sanders, thumping nail guns and growling compressors, the noise will be incessant. If you have youngsters, find a place far from the construction area for naptime. Working from home or catching up on some light reading in rooms near the kitchen probably aren’t realistic expectations either.
3. The Time
Don’t be fooled by the highlight reels you see on TV, a kitchen remodel takes time. Sure you can repaint and switch out the hardware to change the entire look in a few days, but you cannot redesign, demolish and install a fabulous new kitchen in just 48 hours. Take your time in deciding what your unique needs are during the planning and design phase. Once you know what you want, it’s time to brush up on those patience-skills. Often, measurements for countertops aren’t made until the cabinets are installed to make sure the fit is right. A kitchen is a major investment in your home, make sure you slow down and take the time to do it right.
4. The Highs
Maybe it’s the removal of those hideous laminate countertops, or the installation of the carefully selected backsplash, it could even be the anticipation of making that first meal in your new kitchen – whatever it might be, it’s exciting! Allow yourself to be excited about each step of the project.
