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Kitchen Remodeler: Things to Ask a Contractor Prior to Starting the Job

Ron Nanberg | Fri, Sep 26, 2014 |

Rogers3-039490-editedWe understand the excitement of selecting the upgrades, fixture and finish options for a kitchen renovation in the Northshore. However, the most important decision you will make has nothing to do with the aesthetics at all; the most important decision is regarding the kitchen remodeler you choose to get the job done in the first place.Then, all the other aspects of your remodel - looks, function and flow - will all fall into place.

6 Questions to Ask Your Northshore Kitchen Remodeler Before You Start the Job

Once you've hired a North Shore kitchen remodeler, you still have a little more homework to do to make sure that everyone is on the same page. Here are six questions to ask before your kitchen remodeler starts the job.

  1. Can you supply a construction schedule? The construction schedule shouldn't be taken lightly, and includes more than an approximate start and end date. Rather, you should have a calendar that outlines which subcontractors will be doing what and when. This will allow you and your family to make the appropriate accommodations. You can also check in about how schedule changes - which are almost inevitable - will be communicated so you won't be left in the lurch.

  2. Who is in charge everyday? Every company operates differently. In most cases, there should be at least one superintendent who is on the job everyday making sure things are done correctly and working here and there to help the subcontractors out. It's a good idea for you to meet whoever will be supervising the project so you can connect and make them aware of any specific instructions or requests ahead of time.

  3. What's the plan for protecting our stuff? There is virtually no way to avoid the construction dust that is inevitable with any project. However, tarping, plastic and tape can go a long way towards protecting your home's furnishings and other property. If you are very concerned about a particular item, it may be worthwhile to remove it from the home for the duration of the build-out, especially if it's adjacent to the kitchen area.

  4. What's the best means of communicating? Do you have a preferred method of communication? Do they? Knowing how you will be communicating is important so there are no crossed wires. We also recommend reiterating any special requests or changes in writing via email so you have a paper trail of your communication.

  5. What about after hours? Odds are you'll be coming home after-hours and may have a question or two that needs to be answered before you head back out the next day. For this reason, make sure you have an "after-hours" number that you can call if you need it.

  6. What do you do with reusable materials? Make sure it's not all going to the scrap heap - aka the landfill. Request that your reusable items are donated to an organization like Habitat For Humanity if your remodeler doesn't implement a recycling program already.

In the market for a kitchen remodeler? Contact Kitchens & Baths Unlimited. We'll answer these questions and then some before you ever have to ask.

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