The kids are back in school. The summer heat is giving way to more pleasant temperatures. Now is the time to start that kitchen or bathroom remodeling project that you've been putting off.
Kitchen remodeling is an intimidating process for those who've never gone through it. Let me take you there, step by step.
First, we set up a consultation. You've probably already done your research and have an idea about what you want. I will bring my color/stain blocks, doors, mini-bases, and quartz samples. You pick out what you like. It's often helpful to have your flooring sample, too.
With those selections made, I measure your walls and openings, go home and do a kitchen design based on what we talked about during the consultation. Bishop Cabinets, Inc., the company for whom I am a dealer, has a great pricing program, so I can easily give you different pricing options to see how your budget is comparing to actual costs.
I'll email you the design and quote. No pressure from me. If you have changes, I'll make those, update and re-send the quote. If you decide you want to proceed, I'll come back to your house to double-check my measurements and sign a remodeling contract with you.
Payments work like this: I require a 50% deposit for both the cabinets and countertops. Once I place the order with Bishop Cabinets, I'm on the hook to pay for them. When I deliver the cabinets to your house, I require the other 50% for the cabinets. Once they're in your garage, you effectively own them. Once cabinet installations is complete, that installation fee is due. In a couple/three weeks, the quartz will be installed and the remaining 50% on the countertops will be due. This protects process protects both of us, financially, with no one getting too far ahead of the other.
You are responsible for plumbing and electrical costs, but I know good people to recommend. I can't do either of those trades because I have neither the licenses nor liability insurance.
Now, the actuall remodeling process isn't that long, assuming you aren't moving walls. I usually stage the cabinets at your home the week prior to starting. Monday morning I arrive to do the "tear out." Most of the time it's a quick and clean process. It's simply unscrewing cabinets off the wall. Rarely is it like HGTV where I'm busting everything up. Stick-build cabinets can't be saved, so out comes the hammer and pry bar.
Regardless, the tear-out is usually complete by early afternoon on Day 1. Day 2 and Day 3 the uppers and bases are set. Day 4 is molding, adjusting, touch-up, and usually templating for granite or quartz. It's really an easy and clean process.
There is no way around the two to three weeks you're going to be without counter tops. The digital template has to be done in order for the CNC cutting machinery to operate. Three weeks is standard in the stone top industry. Sometimes is more, sometimes less.
I can set the old countertops in place as temporary work surfaces, but if you want a sink during those two to three weeks, you'll have to reconnect the old sink or pay a plumber to do it. It's up to you how to proceed. You'll still have your stove, oven, fridge, and microwave to use.
I'm looking forward to some terrific remodels this fall. It may be your kitchen, but it's my baby too. I love how they come together and bring happiness to my customer's lives.
Cheers!
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