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Kitchen Remodeling Costs – Should You Hire a General Contractor Or an Independent Designer?
Kitchen remodeling can be a very expensive undertaking. The cost can vary widely depending on the scope of the work, the materials, the labor, and the appliances. To get a good idea of what you can expect, you should make an estimate of how much you can afford to spend. You will also want to gather information on contractors from reviews, online websites, and referrals from friends or family.
It is important to decide whether you want to hire a general contractor or an independent designer. In a general contractor’s hands, the task of tearing out old materials and installing new ones can be simple and straightforward. If you choose to use an independent designer, you will need to pay by the hour.
Choosing a reputable general contractor in St. Petersburg will help you determine which ideas are feasible and which are not. A professional can also offer advice on obtaining materials and getting better rates.
Depending on the size of the project, the time required to complete a kitchen remodel can be considerable. For example, a gut renovation can require a few months to complete. During the remodeling, the kitchen will be disconnected from most of its utilities. This includes the refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, microwave, stove, and dishwasher.
If you want to save money, you can hire subcontractors to do some of the work. However, you should be prepared to have a lot of noise and disruption for weeks. Unless you have experience in performing framing and installation work, you will probably want to let a professional take over the job.
If you do choose to hire a general contractor, you will need to make sure that he or she is licensed and insured. Also, make sure to look at the bids and see whether the content and professionalism of the proposal match the job. Choosing the lowest bidder can cause a lot of problems, especially if the job is not done right.
When you are deciding between a general contractor and an independent designer, consider the level of freedom the independent designer will provide. For example, a design-build firm will allow you to keep your project on track by coordinating all aspects of the project. On the other hand, an independent designer will have the most creative freedom.
Before you make a decision on a kitchen remodeling contractor, schedule a site visit and phone consultation. During these meetings, you should discuss all aspects of the project with the candidate, including the type of appliances you plan to purchase, the materials and finishes you will need, and the type of financing you will choose.
You can get a sense of a general contractor’s qualifications by checking out their portfolio. Look for photographs of previous projects that show their craftsmanship and specialty. Contact the National Kitchen and Bath Association for referrals from members in good standing. Additionally, you can contact the trade associations in your state and ask for referrals.
Your kitchen may need plumbing, wiring, or electrical work. Plumbing is an area that can be very complicated. Some jobs, such as moving a sink, may involve rerouting pipes. Electrical is a skill that requires a lot of training. There are several circuits you will need to install in a kitchen, and you should be sure that the contractor you choose is experienced in this area.
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