Tag Archives: Kitchen Remodel

Stress-free Kitchen Remodel Tips

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kitchen remodel tips

A kitchen remodel can be stressful for homeowners getting new countertops, floors and more. However, the experience doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Successful remodels are a result of solid planning and execution.

If you want a stress-free kitchen remodel, here are some tips:

Know What You Want

Before you begin the remodel, you need a clear idea of what you want and the style you like. Compile a written list of thoughts and ideas that you can show your remodeling contractor. When discussing the project with them, be as articulate as possible. Homeowners who are too vague or can’t clearly explain what they want might create misunderstandings.

Knowing what you want can reduce a lot of stress for both you and your contractor when selecting materials and undergoing renovation.

How Long Will the Kitchen Remodel Take?

Kitchen remodels typically last three to six months, so it’s important to know exactly how long yours will take so that you can prepare. Before you sign the contract, ask your contractor for a work schedule. A schedule of the entire project might be unlikely, but they should be able to show what will be complete by the end of each week.

Ultimately, be reasonable with your expectations of yourself, your contractor and their crew. A rushed job doesn’t do any good, and neither does dragging out the project.

Plan and Organize

What’s the key to avoiding a kitchen remodel disaster? Planning ahead and staying organized. Before construction begins, you need to strategize and prepare. Consider keeping a written list of organizational needs and plans, so that if things become hectic you can calmly refer to the list.

Ask yourself questions like:

  • What are the primary needs of myself and my family?
  • How can we ensure life is disrupted as little as possible?
  • How specifically will we function during the remodel, and what do we need in order to do so?
  • What contingencies do we need to prepare for?
  • Does the budget cover costs? Is there extra money in case issues arise?

Make Alternative Eating Arrangements

You and your family will need to make adjustments to daily routines. Plan ahead to make alternative arrangements while your kitchen is out of commission. How and where will you eat? Consider dining out a few days per week or cooking shared meals at the homes of friends and family members to avoid dealing with your kitchen.

Hire Trustworthy Professionals

Hiring quality contractors, countertop installers, and flooring and cabinet professionals is the best way to avoid chaos and stress during a kitchen model. Not only will bringing in experts save you time and a headache, but professional teams will go above and beyond expectations.

If you’re about to undergo a kitchen remodel and part of your project needs include new countertops and installation, eliminate the stress and call the team at Intermountain Stone & Marble today!

4 Tips for Stone Countertops

This entry was posted in Blog, Countertops, Kitchen Remodel and tagged , on by .

modern countertops

Not all stone countertops are created equally — even if they are the same material. For example, granite comes from many places around the world, boasts different levels of quality and is cut into a variety of standardized thicknesses. Granite from regions where the stone is more beautiful can come with a higher price. The uniqueness of the slab (like if the granite has a lot of bright blue coloring aspects, which is rare) can also affect the cost. Of course, the thicker the stone, the more it will cost, too. You can snag fantastic deals on granite, however, by choosing remnants over custom-cut pieces or going with a thinner slab.

No matter what your budget, you need to understand the best tips for saving money and preserving your investment, because that’s exactly what stone countertops are: an investment. Whether marble, travertine, granite or quartz, these countertops can last a lifetime, but only if you treat them right and choose the best product for you.

Here are some must-know tips before you begin shopping:

  • Different stones have different pros and cons: Granite is by far the most desirable of countertop materials, but quartz is much more durable, nonporous and heat resistant. If you only use your kitchen for show, you can go with a delicate stone. If you’re gearing up to audition for Chopped, you might need to go with one that’s thicker and tougher.
  • Sealants are your friend: Every stone but quartz needs a sealant as soon as it’s installed. Stone is porous, eager to absorb debris, grease, bacteria and everything else it comes in contact with. Don’t assume your stone countertops come with a sealant — many don’t, and not all manufacturers are upfront about sealants. Always ask.
  • Let your counters dictate flooring and cabinets: Kitchens and bathrooms have three main real estate areas: countertops, cabinets/vanities and flooring. Countertops and cabinets battle for the title of biggest investment, but if you really want quality countertops, then they should win. Choose your countertops first, then match or contrast your floors and cabinets to them.
  • Maintenance is key: Cleaning your countertops with stone-friendly agents on a regular basis helps keep them free of bacteria, even if they are sealed. Plus, some sealants only last a few years, so make sure to schedule a re-sealing in a timely manner. Just like any natural product, stone needs a little pampering for a long shelf life.

Stone countertops certainly aren’t maintenance free, but they bring value and beauty to your home that’s unparalleled. Kitchens are dubbed the biggest ROI in your home, so give them the attention they deserve. Contact Intermountain Stone & Marble today to start creating your dream home, featuring natural stone countertops.