Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can feel overwhelming. You might be worried about delays, unexpected costs, or the disruption to your daily routine. But here's the good news: with the right preparation, you can make the process smoother and less stressful.
At JSB Home Solutions, we’ve been helping Central Ohio homeowners transform their spaces for over 46 years. As a trusted, family-owned business, we’ve handled everything from small bathroom refreshes to full kitchen renovations. With our decades of experience, we’ve learned exactly what it takes to prepare for a successful project, and we’re here to share our best tips.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to plan, prepare, and stay organized, ensuring your remodel goes off without a hitch—no matter who you choose to work with.
Table of Contents:
- Steps to Prepare for a Stress-Free Remodel
- 1. Establish Your Goals and Budget
- 2. Choose the Right Contractor for Your Project
- 3. Finalize Your Design Choices Early On
- 4. Preparing Your Home for Construction
- 5. Communicate with Your Contractor
- 6. Be Ready for Surprises: Expect the Unexpected
Steps to Prepare for a Stress-Free Remodel
Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is a significant investment, so taking the time to prepare properly will save you both time and stress. By following these key steps, you can ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible and avoid the common pitfalls that many homeowners face. Let’s dive into what you can do to get ready for a successful remodel.
1. Establish Your Goals and Budget
Before any work begins, it’s essential to have a clear plan in place. Knowing what you want to achieve and how much you’re willing to spend will set the foundation for a smooth remodel.
First, think about the scope of your project. Are you aiming for a full gut renovation, or are you simply looking to refresh certain elements? Clarifying your goals will help you make better decisions throughout the process.
Also, set a realistic budget — and be sure to include a 10-15% buffer for unexpected expenses. Kitchen and bathroom remodels are notorious for uncovering hidden issues like plumbing or electrical problems. Research project costs with various contractors to help you set a realistic budget. You can find JSB's kitchen remodel costs and bathroom remodel costs here.
How much should I budget for a kitchen or bathroom remodel?
The cost varies widely based on the size of your space, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the project. A mid-range kitchen remodel can run between $20,000 and $50,000, while bathrooms might range from $10,000 to $30,000. Having a budget in mind helps you prioritize where to invest.
What are the biggest cost factors in a remodel?
Cabinets, countertops, and labor are typically the largest expenses in kitchen remodels. For bathrooms, tiling, plumbing fixtures, and shower upgrades can quickly add to your bathroom remodel cost. Knowing this can help you allocate your budget more effectively.
2. Choose the Right Contractor for Your Project
The contractor you choose can make or break your remodeling experience. It’s vital to work with someone you trust to bring your vision to life.
Not all contractors are created equal. Start by researching local professionals, reading reviews, and checking their credentials. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule consultations to get a feel for their communication style and expertise. A detailed contract that outlines the project scope, timeline, and costs will protect both you and the contractor.
List of Resources to Help You Find the Right Contractor:
- Best Kitchen Remodelers in Columbus, OH
- Best Bathroom Remodelers in Columbus, OH
- Best Sunroom Remodelers in Columbus, OH
- Remodeling Company Comparison Guide
How do I find a trustworthy remodeling contractor?
Ask for referrals from friends or family, read online reviews, and look through their project galleries. When you talk to a contractor, ask them what pieces of a project they did and what was already present. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from past clients.
You can also download the free Remodeling Company Comparison Guide. This guide gives you questions to ask of any company you interview and space on a worksheet to record their answers. JSB’s answers are already filled out so that you can see what type of information companies should be willing and able to provide.
What should I look for in a remodeling contract?
The contract should detail the work to be done, materials to be used, estimated start and completion dates, and payment terms. If something isn’t clear, ask for clarification before signing.
Here are some elements that are helpful to have on your contracts as you talk to home remodeling companies so that you can compare their quotes apples-to-apples:
- Comprehensive materials list including sizes, colors, and styles so your selections are well documented.
- All additional fees such as taxes or financing fees so the numbers you see are the price when all is said and done.
- If you are not financing the project, a description of the payment terms.
- What work, if any, will be completed by subcontractors.
- What materials, if any, are the responsibility of the homeowner to provide. You will also want to make sure you know when your installers will need this material so that this doesn't delay your project, although this probably won't be in the contract itself. It's just good communication between you and your hired company.
3. Finalize Your Design Choices Early On
One of the biggest sources of delays in a remodel is waiting on design decisions. The more decisions you can make upfront, the smoother your project will go.
Take the time to choose your countertops, cabinetry, flooring, and fixtures before construction begins. This ensures that everything is ordered and ready when needed. Working with a designer can help you visualize the final look, making it easier to commit to your choices.
When should I decide on countertops, cabinets, and fixtures?
Ideally, all major decisions should be finalized at least a month before your remodel starts. This gives your contractor time to order materials and avoid delays.
How can I ensure my design choices stay within budget?
To avoid overspending, set a budget for each category (e.g., cabinets, appliances, tile) and stick to it. Alternatively, work with an experienced design consultant who can point you in the direction of materials that fit within your budget. Either way, if you fall in love with a high-end countertop, you can always save in another area to balance your budget.
4. Preparing Your Home for Construction
A little preparation can save you a lot of headaches once demolition starts. Taking steps to protect your belongings and set up temporary spaces will make the remodel much more manageable.
Start by clearing out all cabinets, countertops, and shelves. For kitchens, you may want to set up a temporary cooking space in another room with a microwave, toaster oven, and mini-fridge. For bathrooms, consider where you’ll shower or get ready if you’re losing your main bathroom for a while. Additionally, protect adjacent rooms by sealing doorways and covering floors to minimize dust.
Most contractors should seal off the work area and cover your floors. They should also clean up their work area at the end of each day to minimize the chaos and mess.
How do I prepare my kitchen for a remodel?
Remove all items from cabinets and drawers, unplug appliances, and store breakable items in a safe place. Cover furniture in nearby rooms to protect it from dust.
Do I need to move out during a bathroom remodel?
It depends on the size of the project and your tolerance for noise and dust. If you’re remodeling your only bathroom, you may need to arrange temporary accommodations.
5. Communicate with Your Contractor
Keeping an open line of communication with your contractor is crucial for a smooth remodeling experience. Regular check-ins can help catch issues early before they become bigger problems.
Establish a schedule for updates with your contractor. Whether it’s a weekly check-in or a quick call every few days, staying informed will keep you in the loop. Be sure to communicate any changes you want to make as soon as possible to avoid delays.
What should I ask my contractor during the remodel?
Questions like, “What’s the next step?” or “Are we on schedule?” can give you a clear picture of where your project stands. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if something doesn’t make sense.
How often should I check in with my contractor?
Weekly check-ins are usually sufficient, but if something urgent comes up, don’t hesitate to reach out. Shorter projects like small bathroom or kitchen cabinet refaces, may need a check-in daily because they can be as little as 3 days long.
6. Be Ready for Surprises: Expect the Unexpected
No matter how much planning you do, unexpected issues can still arise during a remodel. The key is to stay flexible and prepared.
It’s not uncommon to discover hidden damage behind walls or floors once demolition begins. Building a 10-15% contingency into your budget will give you peace of mind if surprises pop up. Supply chain delays can also impact your timeline. This is another reason it’s so important to make your selections early and stick to them. If you end up ordering new materials mid-project, you run the risk of dramatic timeline delays that are completely out of your control.
What should I do if my remodel is delayed?
Communication is key. Talk to your contractor to understand the cause of the delay for your remodel project and adjust your plans as needed. Being patient and flexible will go a long way.
How do I handle unexpected costs during a remodel?
This is where your contingency budget comes into play. Having that extra cushion allows you to address surprises without stressing over finances.
Preparing Now for a Smooth Remodel Later
We understand that the thought of remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can feel daunting. The disruption, the mess, and the potential for unexpected surprises can create a lot of anxiety. But with the right preparation, you can turn what feels like a looming headache into an exciting transformation. Remember, a remodel is more than just a construction project—it’s a chance to create a space that truly reflects your style and meets your needs.
Here’s a quick recap of the steps to ensure a smooth, stress-free remodel:
- Plan Ahead: Establish your goals and set a realistic budget.
- Choose the Right Contractor: Work with a reputable professional you can trust.
- Finalize Your Design Choices Early: Make decisions on materials and finishes before construction begins.
- Clear the Space: Prepare your home for demolition and protect your belongings.
- Communicate Regularly: Stay in touch with your contractor to avoid misunderstandings.
- Expect the Unexpected: Be prepared for surprises with a flexible mindset and contingency budget.
By following these steps, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful project that not only improves your home but also enhances your daily life. If you’re ready to take the first step toward your dream kitchen or bathroom, our team at JSB Home Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t let the fear of remodeling hold you back—let’s turn that vision into a reality. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your stress-free remodeling journey!
