A kitchen renovation is one of the most complicated projects for your home, but kitchen remodels also offer some of the greatest benefits. A well-planned kitchen renovation can increase the value of your home and create a beautiful and functional workspace for your entire family.
Before you break out the sledgehammer and start the demolition of your old, outdated kitchen, there are a few home upgrades you should do to ensure your kitchen renovation goes off without a hitch.
Upgrade Your Electrical to Code
Many homeowners prefer to do minor electrical work themselves to save money, but when upgrading the electrical systems in your kitchen, it's essential to make sure the work is up to code. Failing to provide two 20-amp appliance circuits, powering lights with the 20-amp appliance circuits, or protecting countertop circuits with a GFCI, can lead to fires, tripping circuit breakers, and damage to appliances.
Upgrade Your Plumbing
Proper plumbing is essential to any good kitchen. If your kitchen renovation includes moving sinks, adding faucets or appliances that require a connection to water or drainage, it's vital to make your plumbing system is up to the task. Upgrading your plumbing should also include upgrading your water heater to ensure you have adequate amounts of hot water for your new kitchen. Use a professional company, like Mr Waterheater, to evaluate your water heater and determine if you need to upgrade to a more efficient or larger water heater.
Set up Proper Ventilation
A functional kitchen needs proper ventilation. If you're going to relocate your stove or cooktop, make sure you have adequate ventilation. Most building codes don't require a range hood with outdoor venting, but most experts recommend it. You should also make sure your kitchen renovation includes roof vents and large windows for additional ventilation.
Upgrade the Lighting
A well-lit kitchen makes meal preparation easy and more fun. Proper lighting is key in a kitchen. Your kitchen renovation should include skylights, plenty of ambient lighting, and recessed lighting over countertops.
A kitchen renovation is one of the most significant upgrades you can make to your home, so you have to make it count. Proper planning is key to a successful kitchen renovation, but it's well worth the time and effort, especially when it comes time to resale your home.