Kitchen Remodeling Blogs

Things to Consider when Expanding your Home – Home Additions Ideas

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Do you love your neighborhood, schools, and nearby stores? Do you hate the thought of leaving friends or changing schools? If your current home no longer meets the needs of a growing family, you may be considering expanding your home with an addition.  If your family is increasing because of an aging parent moving in or more children, you may desperately need more rooms or space for an expanding family’s activities.

Before you begin to plan an addition, you need to ask yourself some questions:

  1. Do you have enough space on your property to build out?
  2. Is your home structurally sound to build up?
  3. Will expanding your home be out of place in your neighborhood?
  4. Do you have a generous renovation budget or can you secure a home equity loan to cover the costs of an expansion?

Expanding your Home: to Build Up or Out?

Typical ground level additions include a “Florida” room or sunroom, a family room or living room, an additional or enlarged garage, or a “mother-in-law” suite with a private entrance. A popular renovation for a growing family is a kitchen expansion or a laundry room and/or mud room.

Second Floor Build Up

A craft room or hobby room, exercise room or a master suite are often requested additions for a second floor. A laundry room next to the bedrooms is a popular addition for the convenience of not needing to lug laundry up and down stairs. Other possibilities are an office expansion, sometimes with a private entrance, an over-garage addition, or an additional bedroom.

Going Up… to a Third Story

These additions can include a master suite, family room, storage and holiday rooms, as well as a study or exercise room.

Expanding your Home: Which is the Best Way to Go?

Whether you build up or out may depend on the size, shape, existing footprint of your home, and the available yard space. Think about future uses for your backyard. If you want to leave space for a pool, patio, entertainment area, or playground, you may not have the space available to build out. Are there options for building out at the side of your home or in the front?

Vertical Additions

If you build up, all or part of your home’s existing roof will be removed. You’ll need to plan to move into a hotel or stay with family for the rest of the renovation. Building up includes the addition of a staircase, which will take up space on the first floor, reducing the amount of available square footage there.

Horizontal Additions

Not as disruptive as a second or third floor addition, building out means sacrificing yard area in the back, side, or front of your home. A foundation must be poured and the walls will be framed. Plumbing and air ducts are added and a roof is installed over the new addition. The exterior siding or brick face, as well as the roof, will need to match the existing exterior.

The Cost Differences

Building out is significantly less expensive than building up. Depending on where you live in the US, building up can cost as much as 30% more than building out. 

The cost of building out can include additional plumbing work, landscaping, pouring a new foundation, and upgrading the HVAC system.

In addition to removing the existing roof and replacing it, the first floor may need to have additional support structures installed.  Costs can include the addition of a staircase, structural supports and footings, a structural engineer, adding an HVAC system on the new floor, the cost of staying at a hotel, storing personal items and possible repairs to the first floor.

Making the Decision

Your final decision will depend on the size of your property, your town’s zoning laws (or HOA requirements), the condition of your home, and your requirements and budget. Your first step is a consultation with a professional renovation construction company.  You can expect to answer a lot of questions and will be given information and advice on your options. A comprehensive estimate will follow when you decide on your specific plan for your home.

If you are thinking about an addition, call us at 508-918-0422 at A.W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration, or visit our contact page. We begin with a consultation to hear your vision. We will explain our process and answer all your questions. Together we will design and create a new living space that you and your family will love and enjoy for many years!

Six Reasons Why You Should Consider a Spring Remodeling Project

6 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Spring Remodeling Project

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If you are thinking of a spring remodeling for a room because you want to sell your home this summer, or you have waited through the long winter to start your dream project … spring is here and now may be the ideal time to begin. 

Here are six very good reasons why you should consider a spring remodeling project:

You’ll be among the first to remodel. 

The earlier you can get your project scheduled, the sooner your remodeler can get started. Home renovators get very busy during the summer months, so to avoid getting back-logged, be one of the first to be on the schedule for a spring start.

You’ll have better weather.

Spring temperatures and weather conditions mean fewer weather-related delays. Your contractor won’t have to deal with freezing winter or the scorching heat of the summer. Your project will be completed faster in spring than in any other season.

You’ll avoid disruption.

The winter and early spring holidays are over so a renovation project won’t get in the way of your family activities. Start in the spring and the work may be done in time for summer vacation and travel plans. You will want to entertain on your new deck or patio and proudly show off your newly remodeled kitchen to out-of-town guests.

You’ll have more time.

If your renovation project is complex, it may take months to be completed. If you start in the spring, you’ll have more time for the project to be finalized … into the summer and fall, if needed. 

You’ll benefit from spring remodeling sales.

Many showrooms have end-of-winter sales, offering discounts on items from the previous season. You can take advantage of lower prices on materials that may include plumbing fixtures, tile flooring, and lighting.

You’ll sell for more with your spring remodeling project.

If your objective is to sell your home at a higher price, consider that a newly renovated home will attract more potential buyers. Your home will stand out and you may sell quickly and at the price you want. 

Spring is a time for new beginnings. Nature is alive with new birth. A spring remodeling project may be the revitalization your home needs so you will love it even more than when you first moved in.  

If you are thinking about renovating your home this spring, call us at 508-918-0422 at A.W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration. We begin with a consultation to hear your vision. We will explain our process and answer all your questions. Together we will design and create a new living space that you and your family will love and enjoy for many years!

A Breakfast Nook May Be the Answer

A Breakfast Nook May Be the Answer

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Sectioned off from the rest of the kitchen on three sides, a breakfast nook is a little alcove that can accommodate everyday dining, serve as a casual sitting area, and provide extra seating for larger gatherings.

Breakfast nooks are regaining popularity and are an excellent addition to a retro-style kitchen. The décor and color palette can reflect a more contemporary aesthetic.

What can I do to fill an empty corner in my kitchen?

If you have a bit of extra space in the kitchen, you can create a breakfast nook by adding a bench and a table. If you have windows on the wall by the bench, so much the better. Add pillows and make sure your nook is comfortable for lounging.

If you don’t have a wall with windows, it can brighten up a dark alcove with lighting over the table and cheerful décor.

How can I define my open floor plan to better advantage?

If your contemporary home has an open floor plan with no nooks and crannies, you can add definition by building a breakfast nook on one side.  Some kitchens have a space that is meant for a dining area, but it may be too tight for a large gathering to fit comfortably. A breakfast nook is idea to make that space more functional.

Make use of the old butler pantry.

A butler’s pantry is a great feature in many large homes. However, it sometimes ends up being under-utilized. It can be re-envisioned as a breakfast nook to seem like an original part of your home.

My all white contemporary kitchen can use a pop of color. What can I do?

If your kitchen is more traditional, floral cushions or pillows can invoke an English cottage feeling. A breakfast nook allows you to add flourishes to your kitchen design that do not overwhelm the neutral design.

I need more storage space in my home and I can’t figure out where that storage space can be added.

Breakfast nooks provide an easy answer to the need for more storage space. If you have walls surrounding the area for your breakfast nook, simple shelves can be installed to hold cookbooks or other books. A bench seat can be made with drawers or a pull-down door that hides shelves within the bench.

Breakfast Nooks and Bay Windows work together.

Breakfast nooks help create a beautiful focal point by drawing attention to the view and the natural lighting it offers. A bay window adds to the design and provides seating to enjoy the view while eating, sipping a cup of tea, or reading.

Does a Breakfast Nook add value?

Having a breakfast nook as part of the kitchen layout adds value because it:

Provides additional seating space

Offers additional counter space

Defines an open floor plan

Can provide more storage space

Takes advantage of natural lighting

 

Dimension Suggestions:

A breakfast nook for two people requires an area with a minimum of 5’ x 5’ space; a six-person nook needs at least 7’ x 10’ to fit a table large enough for all.

A nook table (used on one side only) should be 21” deep. If the table will be used from both sides, it needs to be at least 42” deep.

These are perfect for all design styles. It gives you extra seating in the kitchen, while providing a cozy, comfortable feeling. In formal homes, a breakfast nook softens modern lines and materials. In more casual home designs, a breakfast nook fits in effortlessly.  Installing a breakfast nook is a win-win!

If you are thinking about renovating your home to include a breakfast nook, call us at 508-918-0422 at A.W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration. We begin with a consultation to hear your vision, and we will explain our process and answer all your questions. Together we will design and create your new living space that you and your family will love and enjoy for many years!

an open floor plan and why you need one

An Open Floor Plan & Why You Need One

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An open floor plan isn’t new, but they are the most popular home interior and for good reason… actually eight more good reasons, at the very least.

An open floor plan has two or more spaces joined together to form a larger, grander space. A more traditional floor plan would have these rooms divided by a wall or door. By combining the living room, dining room and kitchen, the result is a communal living area that creates a smooth flow from room to room.

Here are more reasons why homebuyers love open floor plans:

Better Lighting and Air

Shared light from light fixtures throughout the room enhances the ambiance of the space, carrying light from space to space.  Lack of barriers allow for more windows that will bring in natural light during the day.  

Improved Energy Efficiency

Airflow and the home’s temperature can be controlled more efficiently. With an open floor plan there are no barriers that constrain the air flow, which makes the home easier to heat and cool.

Comfort and Space

Your home’s major living areas will feel more spacious providing comfort and a sense of order.

The Kitchen as a Focal  Point

The kitchen is often more than just the place where meals are prepared. It is also the center of the family’s time together. The key to an efficient kitchen in an open space floor plan is the triangle formed by the range, refrigerator, and sink.  Having these three areas appropriate lengths apart creates an aesthetic, well-functioning kitchen.

Entertain Easier with an Open Floor Plan

Without walls between living room, dining room, and kitchen, you and your guests are brought together and entertaining is simplified and much more enjoyable.

Bring the Outdoors In

Sliding glass doors, often used in the family room or kitchen, offer a connection to an outdoor patio, play area, or backyard.

You can expand your living space during the warmer months by entertaining or having family meals outdoors as you are able to easily see and move through the open floor plan to the outdoors.

A Format for Today’s Families

Today’s young families especially love the open floor plan because it is ideal for busy parents and children. This plan allows you to have “eyes on” the children while they are playing or to supervise homework while you are preparing dinner. The larger space can provide for a study nook or a home-office computer desk.

An Open Floor Plan Provides Real Estate Value

Open floor plans increase the home’s value by adding functional square footage. Considered a part of modern home design, they are attractive to home buyers, who often cite it as their number one requirement.

If you are thinking about renovating your home’s living areas into an open floor plan, call us at 508-918-0422 at A.W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration. We begin with a consultation to hear your vision. We will explain our process and answer all your questions. Together we will design and create your new living space that you and your family will love and enjoy for many years!

remodeling contractor Boston MA photo

Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a Remodeling Contractor

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The most essential first step when beginning a home remodeling project is to select your contractor. Your goal is to choose a professional who is reliable, honest, and has a good reputation for quality work. You’ll want to get multiple estimates and check each contractor’s reviews, but there is more you can do to select the best contractor for you. Think of this step as the “interview” process.

Your job at this point is to ask a lot of questions.  Here are 13 of the most important:

1. How long have you been a remodeling contractor?

First and foremost, you want an experienced remodeling contractor. Those with years of experience have created processes and controls to ensure that their projects are completed on time and on budget. Experience helps to produce quality results that will meet your expectations.

2. Will I have a dedicated team working on my project?

Contractors often work several projects at a time. You want to know that the individuals on your job will be consistent from day to day. Ask: Will the same team be working on my project each day? Will you be the project manager? If not, who and what will he or she oversee each day? What is your process for qualifying the sub-contractors you work with? How often can I expect a progress report?

3. What remodeling contractor insurance do you carry?

Contractors should have workers’ compensation and liability insurance for the types of jobs they perform. Ask to see their Certificate of Insurance for peace of mind that the company and their employees are insured for the type of work you are hiring them for. In addition, ask if the sub-contractors they hire are insured under the contractor’s insurance.

4. What licenses and certification does your company and its employees have?

Cities, states, and sometimes counties have different contractors’ licensing requirements. You want to know that your contractor has obtained any required certifications for their field of expertise. (You don’t want to hire a carpenter whose license is in plumbing.) A business license is not sufficient. A license to operate a business doesn’t mean that the individual is a licensed or credentialed contractor.

5. Will the remodeling contractor obtain the necessary permits and arrange for the required inspections?

Some projects require permits and/or inspections, especially if your project changes the structure of the home. Your contractor should know what permits are needed and how to get them … and should be willing to obtain them for you. 

6. What is your timeline for starting and completing this project?

Ask, too, if there are any circumstances that might affect the schedule, such as other projects the company is working on now or prospective projects that may go to contract. Learn how changes to the timeline will be addressed.

7. How do you want to be paid? What is the payment schedule?

You should never be expected to pay for the entire project upfront and a reputable contractor will not ask you to. It is important to know exactly how much is due and when.

8. How will additional remodeling contractor charges be handled?

With today’s technology, contractors can provide very accurate pricing, but remodeling projects can be unpredictable at times. Once a project is underway, circumstances may arise that can change the initial estimate. Homeowners may decide to make changes that require a “change order.” It is important that your contractor agree not to exceed the agreed upon budget without getting approval.

9. What will a typical day on this project be like?

You need to know what to expect on construction days so you can prepare appropriately. At what time does the workday begin and end? What does the homeowner need to remove prior to the start of the project? Does the homeowner need to be home during the project? Should pets be removed from the home? What will the noise level be like? In addition, ask how tools and materials will be stored if the job spans several days? Ask if tools will be put away or if equipment needs to stay in place until the following day. At the end of the day, will trash be removed and disposed of? Will there be routine end-of-day clean up to ensure an uncluttered workspace?

10. What steps are taken to protect my property?

Although the question may seem disrespectful, it is important to know that your contractor is willing to take appropriate steps to protect your home. Ask about the use of tarps to cover large furniture and surfaces in the work area. Will the crew wear shoe coverings in the house? Will doors need to be kept open and will they be closed and locked when leaving the home?

11. Do you offer a warranty for your service or for the materials you will use?

Most remodeling contractors offer a guarantee on their work, and you’ll want to know what their warranty covers and for how long. The materials used may have a manufacturer’s warranty, so you should request a copy of this information before construction begins.

12. How will we communicate with each other during the project?

Who is the remodeling contractor person you should be contacting if you have a question or a change? When is the best time to contact this person and how – by phone, text, email? Ask in what general timeframe you can expect a response.

It is critical to establish good communication between contractor and homeowner. Prospective contractors will welcome your questions and should have a list of questions of their own to determine what you desire in your remodel and what your expectations are. You don’t want a contractor who agrees with everything you say.

You want an open dialogue which ensures a positive working relationship for this project and beyond.

How will we resolve any disagreements?

Mistakes and disagreements with remodeling contractors do sometimes occur, therefore, a remodeling contractor must have a process to handle this. As a result, you will hire a remodeler who guarantees their work and has a process in place to make sure you are 100% satisfied. 

Want to know what it is like to work with a reliable remodeling contractor? Check out our latest reviews on BuildZoom.

What’s Trending in Kitchen Design for 2021

Kitchen Design Trends 2021

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When deciding to plan a kitchen renovation, homeowners have many choices in how to update their kitchen design and style. Trends can be adapted to fit an individual’s favorite style with classy, yet functional ways to update and upgrade a kitchen.

More than ever before, in 2020 kitchens became the center of family life. Multiuse functionality, cleanliness, hygiene, and comfort will be the priority in what is trending for the 2021 kitchen.

So, What’s New?

Multifunctional furniture is in style.

We learned from the need to work at home that multifunctional furnishings are a necessity. A dropleaf table in the kitchen, for instance, can multitask as a standing workstation or homeschooling nook. A multi-level counter can serve as a kitchen prep area or desk.

Décor to give comfort as well as character

Kitchens are getting more use these days and people want the space to be more comfortable, less utilitarian. Look for ways in which details, like ambient lighting, wood-stained cabinets, mixed metal fixtures, artwork, comfy cushions, and table lamps can make a kitchen cozier and more inviting. Here is an example: 

kitchen design trends 2021

Bold Color Palettes

While white remains the favorite kitchen color scheme, warmer and bolder shades are pushing out the cool tones of recent years. The color trend for 2021 includes warm colors that evoke feelings of compassion and comfort. 

Classic, all-white kitchens will always remain in style. However, people are beginning to select darker colors to bring depth, dimension, and a bit of drama to the kitchen. Kitchens are getting more colorful with brightly painted cabinets or a glitzy, statement backsplash or a colorful finish for countertops.

Goodbye Grey

According to Interior Design website Porch Daydreamer, “what was really obvious gray – like the basic cool grey — is definitely out.” Greige (a combo of warm grey and beige) and beige are in and have been around for a few years. New shades of greige are deeper and now are moving more toward a warmer beige with yellow undertones. Porch Daydreamer says, “Very new for 2021 are shades of blue green with a hint of grey.” 

Interior Design Trends tells the story with much bolder strokes. They explain, “The use of the entire color palette for kitchens has gained ground in recent years. It used to be limited to the use of white, brown, or gray. This has changed.” Color combinations can be used to highlight walls, cabinets, countertops, or accents … and bold is in for 2021.

Green is one of the most popular in all its variations – bluish green, mint green, sage green, olive green, apple green, and hunter green. Blue is another popular color in tones of pastel blue, turquoise, or navy blue, which can bring sophistication and elegance to the space.

A non-traditional mix of pale, dusty pink that blends well with gray has been trendy as well. Intense Colors like brown, red, orange, and yellow can have a place in a 2021 kitchen design. The trick is to combine them with other colors or finishes and to use them in moderation.

No-Touch Faucets

Motion-control and hands-free faucets, as well as touch-tap faucets, now are more popular than traditional kitchen faucets. Not just more hygienic, hands-free faucets promote productivity in the kitchen by turning on the water with a simple command. Choose matte or brushed finishes for low-maintenance or black faucets finish to complement warmer colors.

The Range Hood as Décor

A decorative range hood that extends beyond the cabinetry profile or one that features an accent color provides a focal point in the kitchen. Rather than bold details, the emphasis is on the types of materials used on range hoods. Marble, thin veneer porcelain, or plaster turns the range hood into a statement piece.

More Storage

With the need to cook more at home this past year, family chefs purchased more groceries, small appliances, and utensils such as bread makers, air fryers, and instant pots. As a result, increased kitchen storage areas are part of kitchen renovations and include pantries and freezers.

Specialty Ovens

Ovens that offer greater functionality for home chefs are more and more popular and are included in new kitchen designs. For example, a convection oven offers speed and a flexible cooking solution that combines both traditional and microwave ovens so you can bake, broil, and microwave all in the same unit.

Bringing the Outside In

One of the key design elements in kitchen design for 2021 will be the visual and physical connection to the outdoors.  Bifold doors and larger windows will promote a more stylish and less obtrusive view to the outside and provide fresh air flow. Light window treatments or bare windows will be featured.

Sustainability Very Much in Vogue

Using ethically and sustainable kitchenware is a trend that is getting more and more traction. Natural, organic style is in the top three kitchen design styles for 2021, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Emphasizing the versatility of materials that are organic, nature-inspired, and environmentally conscious, such as energy-efficient light fixtures, today’s natural, organic style includes finishes that are luxurious and modern.

People want to know where their products come from and the impact it has on the environment. High-quality items such as hand-painted tiles, artisan-crafted hardware, and antique sinks are highly regarded and requested.

If you want to plan a kitchen renovation, read our blog and give us a call at 508-918-0422 or email to start the conversation and get your questions answered.

10 things to think about before you start your kitchen remodel

10 Things to Think About Before Remodeling A Kitchen

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When thinking (or dreaming) about remodeling your kitchen, you have probably been spurred on by magazine spreads of today’s kitchen trends.  More likely, however, you have been frustrated by the fact that your current kitchen doesn’t reflect your lifestyle or cooking needs, or even by the lack of storage. If you love to entertain or have lots of small appliances or cooking gadgets that need a home or if you need new appliances, a kitchen remodel may be in your future.

What to do first to prepare for your kitchen remodel

Consider the square footage of your kitchen space. Size dictates layout and is especially important in a small kitchen. What you want – an island or prep sink or extra storage space – may not be doable without constructing an addition to the kitchen or knocking down walls.  Your contractor will help you design a layout that makes the best of the available space and will give you options for windows and doors, which may be moved to accommodate your wishes.

Consider the layout of the kitchen

The workflow of the layout should match your cooking routine and lifestyle. You want to be able to move easily from the stove to the sink. Are you the primary cook or do you share cooking with someone else at the same time? Are you a gourmet cook who wants to allow space for professional appliances? Will you be hosting elaborate dinners or feeding young children every night? Do you prefer to cook and socialize with guests seated at a kitchen counter? Do you want to include an eat-in area or utilize the space for other purposes? Do you prefer natural light or designer lighting fixtures?

Age matters

You might be faced with electrical or plumbing issues during a remodel if your home is old. You’ll want to be sure your remodeling team includes an architect and engineer to ensure that the electrical system and current plumbing can deal with high tech appliances and lighting.

An older home may have sagging floors or walls that are not exactly “plumb” and may need to be straightened. These possibilities can add a lot to the remodeling budget.

Selecting countertops for your kitchen remodel

There is more to consider when selecting kitchen countertops than just what looks nice. You will want to think about how you will use the counters in your new kitchen. If you will be doing a lot of cooking and using the countertops as prep and cleanup areas, you will need to be concerned about scratches and food stains.

Some countertop materials such as marble, limestone, and granite are porous and will need to be sealed at least once a year. Wood countertops require oiling at least twice a year. Soapstone doesn’t require daily maintenance, but it will show wear and tear and develop a patina over time. Mineral oil applied regularly is recommended to keep it looking good.

Granite countertops can be maintained rather easily with a daily wiping of spills and crumbs with hot water and a sponge. A granite counter cleaner spray can be used to clean and disinfect the countertop. Some manufacturers recommend a monthly polish and yearly sealing if the granite is showing signs of absorbing water around the faucet or in high traffic areas.

You may be drawn aesthetically to one material over another and budget considerations will come into play.  A basic laminate countertop costs about $22 per square foot and top-grade marble or granite can cost as much as $250 per square foot. A high-end butcher’s block can be very expensive as well. Your contractor will be able to assist you in the selection of a countertop that you love that will fit into your budget.

Kitchen cabinets – to refinish or buy new?

Many times cabinets can be refinished with paint or stain or doors removed and replaced, keeping the infrastructure intact. Do you want cabinets with solid doors or glass or perhaps you prefer open shelves or a mixture of different styles? As is the case with all the other decisions to be made, budget limitations will play a major role and your contractor can help you with selecting the right way to go to achieve your ultimate goals.  

Kitchen Flooring … so many choices!

From vinyl flooring to wood planking to cork and natural stone, your choices for a renovated kitchen are many. You’ll want to find a durable option that is easy-to-clean and just right for your lifestyle. So much goes on in the kitchen, it is vital that the new floor will be able to withstand family traffic as well as accidents and spills that occur from cooking, babies, and pets. Some of the most popular flooring options include:

Vinyl

Budget friendly, sheet vinyl is resistant to water and stains, is scrubbable, and comfortable on your feet and back. Heavy appliances can leave depressions if not prevented with the use of “coasters” under legs. Sheet vinyl has no seams to allow water to seep between the tiles. It doesn’t get cold in the winter and is available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Porcelain Tile

An extremely durable tile, porcelain is waterproof and stain resistant, but the grout between tiles requires periodic sealing to prevent stains. Stronger than ceramic tile, it comes in many sizes, shapes, and patterns. Porcelain is heavy and can be slippery when wet. Glasses and plates that fall on a porcelain floor will likely break. Installation requires an underlayer and special thinset mortar.

Engineered Vinyl Planks

Engineered vinyl planks closely resemble real hardwood flooring and are waterproof and are slightly cushioned to give the floor a soft feel underfoot and they are easy to clean with just soap and water. Engineered vinyl planks can be installed directly over existing tile, concrete, or linoleum. Care must be taken when moving large appliances, as this type of flooring is not as resilient as porcelain.

Cork

Cork provides a warm and cushioned feel underfoot and is budget-friendly, but it can be scratched by heavy objects. Composed of ground cork and resins which are compressed into tiles, cork flooring is available in basic colors. Cork can absorb sound so it may be the choice where there is a living area below the kitchen. It resists stains but is not stain-proof and can fade if exposed to direct sunlight.

Natural Stone Tile

No two tiles are identical, so stone tiles add a one-of-a-kind look to the floor. Stone has a non-slip surface but can stain without regular sealing. An underlayment and thinset mortar are required for installation. There are several types of stone tiles, including travertine, marble, slate, and granite. Your contractor can discuss with you the attributes and pricing of each.

Appliances for your kitchen

The best advice is to get the best appliances you can afford. Quality appliances will cost more, but they will include the features you want and will last longer. If you are thinking about appliances that are “built-in,” like steam ovens, wine refrigerators, a coffee station, or wet bar, you’ll need to plan for these from the start.

The secret is in the details

Just as important, but not as exciting as countertops and flooring, are the details that you need to plan. Make certain that you consider proper ventilation – how and where vents will need to be moved or installed. You want to address the number of electrical outlets you will need and where best to position them. Do you want a garbage disposal or a compactor? Do you have a pet who needs a special place for food storage and eating? 

Timeline for your kitchen remodel

While you may have been dreaming about and planning for your kitchen remodel for a long time, you must realize that it won’t happen overnight. Your contractor will give you a timeline on what will happen when.  A.W. Puma Construction appreciates their relationships with their clients and keeps them informed every step of the way. (See our process.)

Budgeting for your kitchen remodel

Yes, it is expensive. According to Remodeling Magazine, a minor mid-range kitchen remodel in 2020 cost $23,452 and the national average cost for a full, midrange kitchen remodel is about $66,000. An upscale renovation can be as much as twice that. Homeadvisor (homeadvisor.com) reports that the biggest portion of the cost is for cabinetry and hardware (29 percent), installation (17 percent), and appliances and ventilation 14 percent).

A good rule of thumb is to invest approximately 10 percent of the home’s overall value on a full-scale kitchen remodel. Once again, your designer/contractor will assist you in determining what you should expect in cost and help you find cost-effective alternatives to stay within your budget.

There are many details to think about when planning a kitchen remodel. When you are ready to get started on your plan, contact Albert Puma at A.W. Puma by calling 508-918-0422 or use the form on our Contact page.