What happens now? What do I need to do to be ready for my kitchen? What’s the process? These are questions we unfailingly get when clients sign off on their kitchen designs. First I have to say that a custom kitchen (which is what I do) will take a minimum of 6 weeks to build, average 8 weeks, and sometimes can take 10 weeks depending on the complexity, style and number of truly custom elements. Second, this is only a rough guide to help you understand the process, each and every job is unique and you should always consult a professional contractor/renovator.

DESIGN COMPLETE, CONSIDER THESE THINGS:
Ok, so we’ve finished the incredibly fun and interactive process of designing your new space: layout, cabinet colour, countertops, organizational components, etc. Now it’s time for you to get the space ready. Often you will be replacing the flooring, so the original needs to come up and be removed. Have we moved the location of the sink, dishwasher? Does your fridge have a water line for an icemaker? You will need a plumber to move the lines and run the waterlines for these new additions to your kitchen.

REMOVAL, GOODBYE OLD KITCHEN
Once the old cabinets, countertops, plumbing and electrical have been moved it’s time to close up the floor and walls, often drywall or subfloors will need to be replaced. You will want to prime the walls/ceiling and apply the first coat of your chosen paint colour and you are now ready for your kitchen installation.

DID YOU WANT LIGHTING WITH THAT?
Did you want to add more lighting, for example under cabinet lighting? You can achieve this with a simple plug in light, but I recommend that if you are striping your kitchen down, you should have your electrician hardwire them in. An electrician will be able to run the correct wiring and connect these lights to their own switch. Another thing to consider is if you are adding any lighting (pendants over island or peninsula)? Your electrician will need to address these features as well before you patch/replace drywall.

PREPARING FOR YOUR CABINET INSTALLER
Now, just a couple things to consider with regards to your install. First is where your installer will cut materials.  To achieve the most efficient installation, he/she will need to be able to cut materials as close to the kitchen/space as possible. Cutting in the kitchen, garage, adjacent room or the deck in the summer is most advantageous.  Remember that your home is now a construction site which has its own dangers to consider. Children and pets should be kept out of any space the installer is working.  Also, please be considerate of smoking with the installer in your home.

WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN DURING THE INITIAL CUPBOARD INSTALL?
With the initial install you can expect the base cabinets, upper/wall cabinets, panels and fillers to be completed. The installer may or may not install the crown moulding at this time.

WHEN DO I GET COUNTERTOPS?
Following this your countertops company will come out to template, then it is approximately 10 to 14 days to manufacture your countertops. Once your countertops are installed you can proceed with you backsplash tile, flooring, baseboards, trim, lighting and plumbing fixtures.

FINAL TRIP?
When these items are complete, contact your install coordinator to schedule your installer for a final trip.  Here they will complete the crown moulding, toe kicks, light valance, and replace any service parts at this time.

ARE WE DONE YET?
Now it’s time for the final coat of paint and you’re done! Welcome to your new kitchen. It is my intention to simplify the remodeling / renovations process for you, but you must be aware, a kitchen renovation from the first day of demo to the day the final paint dry’s takes approximately 3+ months to complete, if all goes to plan. If you are making any structural changes it will take longer. Be prepared to live without a kitchen for this time, perhaps even your main floor.

If you’re making your home open concept, please see  “4 Things to Know Before You Renovate Your Kitchen” also check out our Renovation Checklist and if your are looking for some kitchen renovation photos, our Design Gallery is a great place to start.

-Michelle