How to prepare

Getting ready for a kitchen (or bathroom) remodel can bring on similar stress to moving. But it doesn't have to be that way. Taking just a few steps to prep for your kitchen remodel will save you from later potential trouble. 

After you've identified your kitchen remodel design and found professional contractors, you'll need the following items for storing kitchen items:

• Boxes
• Paper for breakables
• Packing tape
• Storage bags
• Marker

Clear out your kitchen cabinets and store away anything you don't need during the remodel. Label each box or storage container. Wrap the more sensitive kitchenware like glasses in newspaper or bubble wrap. Place a clear fragile label on the container, so they don't end up at the bottom of a box stack. 

This is also a great time to give away stuff you do not intend to use again. Estimate the total value in advance so you can have the right amount as a write off for your next tax year. 

 Plan on eating at home during any point of the remodel? You'll need to keep handy a few food storage containers, utensils, dishes, cups, pots, and pans along with anything else you use every day like the coffee machine. The non-perishable food you'll use should be stored away from the renovation, but in smaller boxes, so you can grab anything easily. 

During the remodel you will have no access to your kitchen sink so expect to either wash dishes in another room or use disposable plates. 

It typically takes 1-2 weeks for countertops to be made. In rare cases, it can take up to four weeks for countertops to be manufactured. For busy families, you may want to pay your contractor to install a temporary sink and countertop. This is a great service and well worth the fee. 

In addition to covering your floors and furniture, use plastic sheeting and tape on doorways into other rooms. A good remodeling contractor will complete these steps for you. They will also broom sweep the grounds at the end of the day to minimize debris. But keep in mind, workers are on focused on getting the work done - while your focus may be to minimize dust. Approach it as a team. 

If you own a dog or cat, you may want to  keep them out of the kitchen while it's under renovation. You can either buy an indoor pet gate or keep them in a closed room during the remodel.   

Although you are paying a professional fee for the work, the fact is that showing some love to your crew will go a long way to them taking a little extra care to make you comfortable. Think of it this way - if salaried employees "should all perform equally,  because they are paid to work"- wouldn't those who get validation and the occasional treat from the boss be more inclined to go the extra mile?

Remodeling is very intimate - especially if you are living in the house while it happens. So feeling good about how well the communication goes during all phases of bidding and design is a very important indicator of how well the project will run. If you are an Austin homeowner looking for a company that cares - Probuild Creations is the right choice.