How To Prepare Kitchens For Renovations

Most homeowners have this idea that kitchen renovations simply focus on securing new counters, flooring, cabinets, wall covers, etc., to make way for the new kitchen. But kitchen renovations are a hassle since you have no access to your kitchen for a few days, weeks, or even months. This means that food preparation might not be as easy as before.

How much do kitchen renovations cost?

On average, kitchen renovation projects cost around USD$25,000. Homeowners usually spend around USD$13,000 to USD$38,000, or USD$75 to USD$250 per square foot. Of course, the total amount you have to spend will depend on the size of your space, the quality of materials you choose, and whether you want to completely overhaul your kitchen’s layout. (1)

On the other hand, suppose you go for a smaller kitchen renovation project. In some cases, that can cost between USD$10,000 to USD$15,000. This price point often includes painting the walls, changing the cabinets, or upgrading the sink. If you want to go all out, you have to spend more than USD$30,000. At this range, your kitchen rebuild should already include installing hardwood floors, granite counters, and high-end appliances. (1)

As you can see, kitchen renovations can be expensive. You have to make sure that the whole project is successful from start to finish. One way of achieving this is knowing how to prepare for such an expensive project. To help you out, here are a few ways you can prepare for kitchen renovations:

Have a plan when emptying your kitchen

As mentioned, the main concern when renovating your kitchen is knowing how to feed you and your family during the process. That’s why the first and most crucial step in preparing for a renovation is knowing what you need while setting up a temporary kitchen.

As a start, you can store most of your spices, but always keep the salt and pepper accessible. Both condiments are essential in almost all meals. When it comes to your furniture, you can pack those you don’t necessarily need on a daily basis, such as your waffle maker or crepe machine. But always keep the hot pot and toaster handy. If you’re planning to invest in new appliances, you can throw or donate some of your old ones. Iyou have access to a portable stove or a mini-refrigerator, don’t forget to utilize those.

Knowing what to store and keep will \allow you to plan your meals in advance. Most importantly, you won’t get to disturb the contractors, allowing you to have the best kitchens Perth, or wherever you are, has to offer.

Set up a temporary kitchen

Now that you have the necessary utensils, condiments, and furniture, find a place in your house to serve as a temporary kitchen. You can then transfer the essential items to this location. An ideal temporary kitchen is your living room or any spacious area. If you have a patio or outdoor space, you might want to consider that one too.

The goal is to have a separate room that serves as a small kitchen for a couple of days or weeks, depending on your timeline.

Plan meals around your appliances

If you’ve already decided on a space for your temporary kitchen, the next step is planning your meals. Since your appliances are still limited to microwaves, slow cookers, toaster ovens, or skillets, you have to plan your meals around them.

Here are some meals perfect for portable appliances:

Roast chicken
Risotto
Salad
Curries
Stir-fry (2)

If you don’t want to constantly go to the grocery store to shop for frozen goods, invest in or borrow a mini-fridge.

Protect all family members and pets

Two-thirds of home fires start in the kitchen, claiming the lives of around 480 people. Additionally, 350,000 people reported suffering from kitchen-related accidents. (3)

With that said, even if your kitchen is still inaccessible, it’s important that you practice caution in your temporary kitchen. Before the renovation process begins—whether changing the tiles or cabinets—make sure you disconnect the electricity, plumbing, and gas. Doing so will allow you to eliminate the risk of flooding and electrocution.

Moreover, if you have pets or children living with you, keep them away from the work area. Dogs and cats, in particular, can be a danger to themselves. Thus, secure the area by closing the room with a tarpaulin. You can also hire a pet sitter while the renovation is going on.

Takeaway

A new kitchen is indeed a dream for many homeowners. However, kitchen renovations don’t just happen instantly, which is why you need to know how to prepare for it so the project can go smoothly.

You can start by identifying the utensils you need for your temporary kitchen, and you’ll need to look for a spot to prepare food while the renovation is ongoing. The next step is to plan your meals around the furniture you have. Lastly, since renovations are a hazard zone, make sure to keep children and pets away from the area.

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