Some people would say that the kitchen is the true centre-piece of a home. It is not just a place where meals are prepared. Rather, it’s an entertaining space where people can share both meals and stories. As such, it is not surprising that a lot of families opt for kitchen renovations. It’s important to plan and prepare your home for a kitchen renovation ahead of time. Not only for your tradesman, but for you and your families ease of living if you decide to stay on site.
Kitchen renovation expectations
After finding the ideal design and hiring the services of a contractor, it is now time for you to prepare for the rebuilding process. While your contractor will try to give you a definite timetable regarding the completion of work, it is best to play it safe and make allowances in terms of time and budget. More importantly, remember that you may not be able to make use of your kitchen area while it is being rebuilt.
You will also need to clear your kitchen so that the renovators can do their work with the least amount of obstructions.
Preparing your home
Typically, you should start preparations a week before work is going to be carried out to ensure you are prepared adequately. Plan to complete the following before your kitchen renovation begins.
Empty all of the cupboards
The first step is to remove all of the items in your cupboards. While this may seem like a big task, it’s also great to look at it as spring cleaning! It’s the perfect time to get organised and go through what you really need, and what you can donate or give away to others in need.
During this process, decide what you will be using over the next few months and what you will not be using. For items you won’t be using, pack them away into boxes or containers and store out of the way. For items you are going to use, place these aside for your temporary kitchen.
Decide on a temporary kitchen space
During your kitchen renovation, you’re going to need a temporary kitchen to prepare meals. It’s best to set this up with a lot of thought. In other words, don’t half do it. Even if you eat out a lot, there will be times when you want a quick snack or coffee.
Designate a table for food preparation and cooking. Think what appliances you are going to use and decide where they are going to be placed. Perhaps you’ll set up some makeshift shelving or cupboards.
Other items
Once you have cleared the cupboards, move on to clearing the kitchen of curtains, light fixtures, shelves and even artwork hanging on the walls. Furniture and appliances in close proximity to the area which is going to be renovated should be covered with cloth to prevent them from accumulating dust and debris.
Refrigeration
If you are going to use your current refrigerator, have it moved to the temporary kitchen space. If not, consider hiring a mini fridge or even purchasing a portable fridge. Having fresh food in the house is going to make a world of difference with all of the chaos of a kitchen renovation going on.
Plan your meals
Planning your meals out ahead of time will help you stay organised and also be mindful of your food storage space. Your space is going to be limited so plan accordingly, even if that means doing a supermarket shop 3 times a week instead of just once.
A lot of people simplify their meals during a kitchen renovation, but just because you’re renovating doesn’t mean you still can’t eat healthy. Planning meals out will ensure you still eat healthy, even though you don’t really have a kitchen at the time.
Stay away from paper and plastic
Continue using your usual plates and cutlery and designate an area to wash these up. Have soap and dishwashing detergent on hand to make sure you stay accountable and don’t opt for paper and plastic disposable items out of convenience. Not only will paper and plastic cost you extra money, it’s not an environmentally friendly option.
Don’t forget to BBQ
If you’ve got a BBQ, start grilling! Have a BBQ a few times a week. Getting outside to cook is a great option, especially if you are looking for space. Generally, a temporary kitchen is going to be smaller than your usual kitchen so getting outside will get you out of that confined space and under the stars.
Where to eat?
If your usual dining area is going to be affected by the kitchen renovations, choose a new area to eat your meals. And don’t forget to make use of the outdoors! Perhaps you have a balcony or an outdoor area where you can eat your meals. Definitely take advantage of this, especially if it is summer.
Cleaning up
Keep your temporary kitchen area clean and free from pests by ensuring you clean up straight after meals. Do all of the washing up and wipe away any mess that you may have made. Take the bins straight out and put away all of the cutlery and dishes.
Considering a kitchen renovation?
With a renovation in progress inside the home, you will have to contend with the debris and the noise associated with all the work being done, not to mention the few adjustments you have to make to your daily life. But these are just a few minor inconveniences that pale in comparison to finally having the kitchen of your dreams.
If you’re considering a kitchen renovation or the addition of a butler’s pantry, contact the friendly team at JEDI Plumbing to discuss your plumbing needs today.
