6 Steps of a Successful Remodel
Your Kitchen remodel can be an exciting transformation that changes the way you live in our home. Use this guide to plan thoroughly, know what to expect, and enjoy the process.
Step 1: Dream
The first step of your remodel journey begins with a dream.
Goal: meet your design team and explore possibilities of how your remodel might look.
The “Dream” stage will include:
Research Contractors: Begin exploring the different remodeling professionals in your area.
On-Site Meetings: Meet with your top choices in your home to discuss the project.
Select a Contractor: Choose the remodeler that best aligns with your vision for the project.
At the end of this step, you will have:
A Remodel Team: Remodeling professionals to act as your guide through the process.
Project Vision: An understanding of what your remodel scope could be.
Budget Range: A wide cost range that your project will likely fall into.
Step 2: Define
The second step in remodeling your home is to define the scope of the project.
Goal: Develop the vision for your remodel and identify the total budget.
The “Define” stage will include:
As-built Survey: The design team will measure and inspect your home to prepare designs.
Feasibility Work: Assess whether the project can achieve your goals within your budget constraints.
Concept Planning: Consider multiple design concepts for how the project could look.
At the end of this step, you will have:
Scope of Work: A general vision for the remodel and a concept to redefine.
Initial Budget: An approximate estimate of how much the remodel will cost.
Timeline: An initial schedule of how long it will take to design and construct the remodel.
Step 3: Design
The third step of remodeling is to develop a thorough set of design plans.
Goal: Specify the construction documents and product selections that make up your remodel.
The “Design” stage will include:
Product & Material Selections: You get to pick out all the items you want in your remodel.
Complete Design Plans: The design team will finalize engineering and construction documents.
Sign Construction Contract: To move into construction, you’ll review and sign the contract.
At the end of this step, you will have:
Final Construction Documents: The entire remodel project in detailed plans and drawings.
Fixed Price: A final budget that defines exact amount of money your project will cost.
Project Schedule: A clearly defined schedule for how the project will proceed to completion.
Step 4: Prepare
The fourth step in the remodeling process is to prepare your home for construction.
Goal: Equip you and your team to face the challenges of the construction process.
The “Prepare” stage will include:
Permits and Product Ordering: Your build team will submit permits and order job materials.
Home Preparation: You’ll need to get your home ready for the remodel to begin.
Pre-construction Meeting: You’ll meet with your team to discuss the construction process.
At the end of this step, you will have:
Project Permit Approval: Your local permitting office will approve your remodel plans.
Remodel Survival Plan: How you and your family intend to live through or escape the remodel.
Dedicated Construction Team: A handful of top-notch craftsmen ready to get to work.
Step 5: Build
The fifth step is when you finally get to see your remodel come to life.
Goal: Your build team will use the plans to complete your remodel on schedule and within your budget.
The “Build” stage will include:
Site Protection: Measures to protect your home from damage during construction.
Demolition and Construction: The exciting, but messy process of transforming your home.
Scheduling & Progress Updates: Consistent documentation of your project as it takes shape.
At the end of this step, you will have:
95% Walkthrough: A site walk at 95% completion to review the punch list with the Superintendent.
Inspection & Approval: Certification that your remodel is up to code and documented.
A Completed Remodel: The remodel is built according to your design plans.
Step 6: Delight
The sixth and final step is to enjoy your newly remodeled home!
Goal: Provide you with the information and resources you need to enjoy your new space for years to come.
The “Delight” stage will include:
Project Photoshoot: Your team may send a photographer to take photos of the space.
Move In: You’re finally able to start using your newly remodeled space.
Warranty Check-In: The team should check in with you in a year to review the remodel.
Installation: All the new cabinets, fixtures, and features will be installed.
At the end of this step, you will have:
Your home to yourself: No more remodel carpenters coming in and out.
Remodel Photos: Professional photos of your completed remodel to share with your friends.
Warranty Information: All the materials you’ll need to handle warranty issues.
6 things you should expect from your remodeler:
Communication every step of the way
Designers that listen and design a space for you
Control over the cost stays with you
You and your home are respected
Someone who is with you from start to finish
Someone who stands behind their work
