Embarking on a new kitchen remodel is exciting, especially when you’ve been dealing with an outdated, storage-challenged kitchen for a while. In your excitement, though, you might gloss over certain details that can lead to headaches in the long run. In order to fully enjoy the process of your kitchen remodel, you might want to take into account some of the most common mistakes that people make when they embark on a remodeling project.

It’s gonna cost WHAT? – Nothing is worse than being in the midst of a project and discovering that your plumbing is outdated, your wiring is antiquated and your floorboards are rotten! Not only does this lead to the project taking longer than you anticipated, it also means there are probably going to be some unforeseen expenditures. The best way to avoid going over-budget is to have an open, honest dialog with your designer from the get-go about what you can spend. You’ll want to take into account the unexpected, so plan to have a contingency fund in place, just in case.

I’ll just dive in headfirst! – No! Don’t do it! A proper kitchen remodel takes more than just quality products and excellent installers – it takes planning! We know the fast-paced world we live in often demands on-the-spot decision making, but believe us when we tell you that you definitely want to take time when it comes to planning your dream kitchen. Working out all the details in advance will make the project go much more smoothly – and quickly.

I’ll make it fit! – You’ve just installed beautiful cabinetry, countertops and flooring, and realize that you probably now need a new oven to go with it. Only… the oven you’ve chosen after the fact doesn’t seem to want to fit where the old one was. Oops! Luckily, you can avoid this heartache by selecting your appliances in advance, and working with your designer on the dimensions so that your new appliances will fit perfectly, without any added labor.

Let’s have a dinner party! – Absolutely… once your kitchen is complete. While your kitchen is being remodeled, however, you should prepare yourself and your family for the mess. Set up a temporary kitchen, stock up on meals you can easily nuke, and if all else fails, become friends with the pizza delivery guy. Understand that you may have to wash dishes in the bathroom sink for the time being. Don’t expect your kitchen to be fully operable – or clean – until the project is finished.

This is taking FOREVER! – We know that when you’re in the middle of a kitchen remodel, it can seem like your home – and your life – will never be back to normal again. It’s important to take into account, though, that the end crowns the work. Sometimes, getting there can take longer than expected. Your designer will work hard to make sure everything stays according to plan – but you should anticipate the unexpected, too. There could be additional work that you might not have considered, or materials might be on backorder, or even the weather could cause delays. If you have a good working relationship with your designer, you’ll know that they’re working to mitigate these circumstances and have you back in your kitchen as soon as possible.

One of the best things you can do to avoid these pitfalls is to work with a company that you can trust. The Fahy Kitchens & Bath design team will be happy to assist you as you embark on your kitchen remodel, and we’ll stay with you every step of the way. Call us at (315) 735-8181 or fax to (315) 735-2829. Fahy Kitchens is located at 1908 Oriskany Street West in Utica, N.Y. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are appreciated.