Tag: kitchen renovation

Home Improvement

How to Stay Ahead of the Curve in Home Improvement Advertising

Eve Hale

Home improvement professionals face unique challenges when it comes to marketing their services. They need to deal with seasonal demand changes and make sure they stay top of mind for their local audience.Home Improvement

Using effective marketing strategies like showcasing before-and-after photos is a great way to build trust with potential customers. Also, including testimonials in your online marketing can help you gain more business. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Home Improvement Advertising.

Google Ads can help you reach potential customers at the right time. They allow you to bid on relevant keywords that will display your ads in the search results when people are looking for home improvement contractors in your area. The ads can also direct users to your website or mobile app. However, these ads can be expensive and require careful management.

To maximize the effectiveness of your Google ads, you need to understand your target audience. For example, if you want to target homeowners who are looking for bathroom remodelers, you need to know what their preferences are and what words they use when searching for these services. By doing this, you can target the right customers and increase your chances of getting leads and converting them into clients.

Another way to improve your Google ads is by focusing on your niche. This is important because it will allow you to stand out from the competition and attract the right customers. Homeowners who are interested in remodeling their kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms often turn to Google to find a contractor they can trust. In addition, by focusing on your niche, you can make sure that your ads are visible to people who are likely to hire you for the work they need done.

The best way to maximize your return on investment (ROI) with Google Ads is by tracking key performance indicators, including cost per click, click-through rate, and conversion rate. This will enable you to see which campaigns are working and which need to be improved or discontinued.

It’s also important to regularly check Google’s policies to ensure your advertising is in compliance. Violations can lead to account suspension, which will prevent your ads from appearing and may affect your business’s revenue. To avoid violations, make sure that all billing information is up to date and always have a backup payment option on file. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on competitors’ advertising strategies, as they could be violating Google’s policies without even realizing it.

The top three Google search results receive 41% of all clicks, so if you’re a home improvement contractor, it’s crucial to be seen in these spots. To do so, optimize your Google Business Profile with accurate information and services, claim listings on Yelp and Angi, and encourage reviews.

Social media

Homeowners are turning to home improvement experts for advice and guidance as they invest in their properties. But standing out among the competition isn’t easy. Home renovation companies need to be creative and innovative when marketing their services. They should also stay ahead of the curve by leveraging digital marketing strategies to meet the demands of today’s customers.

Social media can be a powerful tool for home improvement marketing, but it’s important to know when to post. Posting at the right times can increase engagement rates, which can ultimately lead to more visibility for your content. By utilizing tools like Google Analytics, you can identify the best times to post and share your content with your target audience.

Facebook and Instagram are a great way to showcase your work, share before-and-after photos, and connect with potential clients. Using Facebook’s detailed targeting feature, you can reach homeowners who are looking for home upgrade services in your area. This will help you avoid wasting money on advertising to people who aren’t interested in your services.

A well-maintained Houzz profile can be a powerful tool for home remodeling professionals. Using the platform to post high-quality images, detailed service descriptions, and positive customer reviews can build trust and credibility. This will make your business stand out in a competitive market.

Having an active social media presence can also help you improve your search engine optimization. Having relevant keywords in your posts and title tags can boost your website’s ranking on search engines. This will help you get more traffic and convert potential leads into paying customers.

Online shopping has revolutionized the home improvement industry. Consumers are becoming more strategic about how they spend their budgets, balancing DIY and professional services, and shifting between private labels and brand loyalty. This shift has created huge growth opportunities for retailers and manufacturers, but it’s also put pressure on contractors to adapt their services and marketing strategies.

Homeowners are constantly searching for new ideas to update their homes. It’s crucial that home improvement marketers use a mix of online and traditional marketing channels to keep their businesses top of mind for homeowners, maintain a steady stream of customers, and retain full crews.

Email marketing

Home improvement projects can be expensive, so it’s important to focus your marketing efforts on the digital channels that deliver real results. From SEO to social media, these channels can help you attract new customers and grow your business.

Email is a great way to connect with potential clients and promote your services. It can also help build trust and establish your credibility as a trusted partner. To maximize the benefits of your email marketing campaign, create engaging and informative content that showcases your work. This will increase your chances of gaining a customer’s trust and converting them into sales.

Creating a solid email marketing strategy is key to growing your home improvement business. You can target potential customers by using a targeted list of keywords and demographics. Unlike other forms of advertising, pay-per-click ads are highly effective and provide instant visibility and traffic. This makes them a valuable tool for home improvement professionals, as they can control the amount of money they spend on each campaign and ensure that their ads are seen by the right people.

Local SEO is another important tool for home improvement businesses. By optimizing your Google My Business listing, claiming listings on Yelp and Angi, and encouraging reviews, you can improve your search engine ranking. In addition, you can use targeted Facebook ads to reach home improvement customers in your area.

Homeowners are focusing on their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, which means that they’re eager to finish remodeling and renovation projects. Home improvement contractors can take advantage of this trend by advertising their services to homeowners who need to repair or replace their windows, doors, and roofs. By targeting potential clients on their social media channels, home improvement contractors can reach a wide audience and boost their conversion rates.

Homeowners are more interested in hiring a contractor with good online reviews than ever before. To maximize the impact of your online marketing, you should focus on generating positive reviews and addressing negative ones as soon as possible. This will show that you care about your customers and are willing to address any complaints.

Print advertising

Despite the rise of digital marketing, print advertising is still a powerful tool that offers home improvement businesses a unique way to connect with consumers. By incorporating the right visuals and language, it can establish brand trust and create lasting impressions. It also helps home service businesses target specific demographics and reach their audience effectively.

One of the most effective ways to use print advertising is through direct mail campaigns, which can be customized to meet the needs of your business. This type of marketing is ideal for promoting special offers, up-selling, and showing appreciation to existing customers. It can also be used for a variety of other purposes, including educating consumers about your company’s products and services.

Another type of print advertising is through local advertising, which can be targeted to your local market and reaches a broad range of potential customers. This type of marketing can be particularly effective for home renovation and design services, as it allows you to reach a very specific audience. You can also utilize radio and television to reach your target market, which can be a cost-effective option for small businesses with limited budgets.

Consistent local advertising is an effective strategy to build your brand reputation and make your business the first choice for home improvement services. For example, a landscaper or roofing contractor can run monthly ads in a local magazine to maintain a steady presence in the community. This will ensure that your brand is top of mind for residents and increase traffic to your website. Additionally, you can use social media to promote your ads and gain more attention from potential customers.

LVP Flooring

Advantages of LVP Flooring

Amber Bailey

LVP is resistant to water, preventing damage from spills and wetness. It is also easier to repair than many other flooring options, saving time and money.LVP Flooring

Both LVP and LVT are easy to maintain with regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping. They resist staining and are more durable than traditional hardwood floors, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. Contact Nashville LVP Flooring for professional help.

LVP is a cost-effective option for homeowners looking to achieve the look of natural materials like stone or hardwood without breaking the bank. This type of flooring has several advantages, including durability and versatility, and can be a smart choice for kitchens, bathrooms, or other high-traffic areas. It is also resistant to moisture and mildew, making it a healthier alternative to many other types of floors, especially in damp or humid environments.

Another advantage of LVP is its easy cleaning. The waterproof wear layer keeps dirt and grime from penetrating the planks, so they can easily be swept or mopped. This makes it an excellent choice for homes with children or pets, as spills can be quickly wiped up and won’t stain the surface. It’s also easier to clean than a texturized tile floor, as dirt won’t get stuck in the nooks and crannies of the texture.

In addition, LVP is available in a wide variety of styles, from standard printed vinyl to options that closely resemble wood or stone materials. These design choices allow you to create a unique style that complements your space and suits your tastes. Moreover, these floors are versatile enough to be installed in any room of the house.

However, some drawbacks of LVP include its off-gassing during installation and the fact that it may not be suitable for areas with moisture, such as basements. The off-gassing is caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and can cause respiratory irritation or headaches. These issues can be mitigated by opting for a low-VOC or phthalate-free floor and allowing ample air flow to the room during installation.

Although you can install LVP yourself, it’s recommended to hire a professional to ensure that the job is completed correctly and efficiently. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your new floor looks its best for years to come. In addition, a professional will have the right tools and expertise to handle challenging aspects of the project, such as uneven subfloors or intricate cutting for tight spaces. In addition, they will provide a warranty or guarantee that protects you from future problems.

Versatile

LVP is incredibly versatile and can complement almost any design aesthetic. It offers a number of design options, including wood looks that mimic traditional hardwood flooring but with the durability and affordability of vinyl. It also comes in a range of stone designs that can give a sleek, modern look to the living room.

One of the biggest benefits of LVP is that it is easier to install than other types of flooring, which can save you on installation costs. Typically, the planks connect with a click-lock system that makes it easy to DIY the project. LVP is also water-resistant, which means it can handle spills without absorbing them or becoming damaged.

Unlike natural wood, LVP doesn’t fade in sunlight and can be refinished to restore its appearance. However, you should still use throw rugs in sunny areas to minimize the impact of UV rays on the floor. In addition, you should choose a dark color for your floors to protect against fading.

Another advantage of LVP is that it’s available in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures. This versatility allows you to create unique spaces that reflect your personal style and taste. However, you should be aware that some brands may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the production process. This can cause discomfort and even irritate your nose and eyes.

While LVP is a good choice for most rooms, it’s best for high-traffic areas that will receive a lot of wear and tear. Its durable construction resists scratches, stains, and dents, making it an excellent option for homes with children and pets. It is also easy to maintain with regular sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping.

LVP is a great alternative to natural wood floors because it provides the same warmth and beauty but with increased durability and comfort. Additionally, it’s water resistant, which means it can withstand spills and other accidents that might damage hardwood floors. It also works well in kitchens and bathrooms, where a waterproof surface is essential. However, it’s not ideal for rooms with large temperature changes, as this can cause the floors to warp or buckle.

Durable

Unlike hardwood floors, which can be damaged by moisture, LVP is waterproof from the core. It also resists dents and scratches that can be caused by furniture or everyday wear. This durability makes it an excellent choice for homes with children and pets. The vinyl material is also soft underfoot, making it more comfortable than concrete or stone. Additionally, it is resistant to moisture and stains, making it easy to clean.

In addition to its durability, luxury vinyl flooring is often easier to install than traditional hardwood floors. Its click-lock and loose lay installation methods make it a good choice for DIY projects. Additionally, it is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can easily find an option that matches your existing décor.

The durable construction of LVP is a result of its multiple layers. The core layer (often made of PVC or similar materials) adds strength and rigidity, while the image and wear layers protect the design from stains and scratches. The top image layer uses advanced printing technology to mimic the look of natural wood or other materials, allowing you to create an authentic hardwood floor at a lower cost.

While LVP is more affordable than hardwood, it can still be a splurge for many homeowners. However, with proper care and maintenance, LVP can last up to 20 years, making it a more cost-effective flooring option. In addition, if you have any damage to your LVP floors, they can be repaired or replaced quickly and affordably.

Like other types of vinyl flooring, LVP is made from petroleum-based products. This manufacturing process emits pollutants into the atmosphere and can cause environmental harm. It is important to purchase an environmentally friendly product, and to look for manufacturers with green certifications. In addition, you can reduce your environmental impact by using protective mats and rugs to help prevent dirt, dust, and debris from being tracked onto the floors. You should also regularly sweep and vacuum your floors, and wipe up spills and stains promptly. You should also keep your floors out of direct sunlight, which can cause them to fade and discolor.

Comfortable

LVP flooring is softer and warmer underfoot than other hard materials such as tile or stone. Its cushioned feel makes it a great choice for rooms with kids or pets, and it can even reduce noise. Some styles also feature built-in underlay, which further enhances the comfort and sound-absorbing properties of the floor.

This flooring material is water-resistant, making it easy to clean up spills and accidents. This feature is particularly useful in kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture can cause damage to other flooring types. However, the floor should still be protected from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can lead to discoloration over time.

In addition to being waterproof, LVP is highly durable and resistant to scratches and dents. It’s a good choice for families with children and pets, and its resistance to wear and tear makes it an excellent long-term investment. This flooring doesn’t require the periodic sanding and waxing that hardwood floors need, and regular sweeping and occasional mopping are usually enough to keep it looking clean and new.

LVP is also easier to install than laminate, and it can be cut with a utility knife or utility blade rather than a saw. It is usually also cheaper than wood and stone flooring, so it is an ideal option for budget-conscious homeowners.

Compared to laminate, vinyl composite flooring has more texture. This allows it to better mimic the look and even feel of real wood or stone, making it a more authentic alternative to these expensive options. Many people also find that it is a more comfortable choice, as it is often thicker and more cushioned underfoot than standard laminate flooring.

While LVP is a popular option for many homeowners, it is not without its drawbacks. Some disadvantages include its vulnerability to water damage, which may require special sealing treatments. It can also be damaged by heavy furniture, which should be moved carefully on the floor. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance guidelines, as this will help you keep your flooring looking as good as possible for as long as you own it.

Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchen Remodeling Cabinets and Countertops

Abraham Hobbs

The kitchen remodel goals you define for your project will influence many decisions, including the choice of cabinets and countertops. There are many options for both, from natural stone to manufactured products.Kitchen Remodeling

Be sure to factor in plenty of storage space, especially in lower cabinetry. Also, consider unique design elements like a knife drawer.

Cabinets are one of the largest components in a kitchen and typically account for up to 40% of your remodel costs. If you’re happy with the layout of your cabinets but would like to freshen up their appearance, consider repainting. This can be a fairly labor-intensive DIY project but will cost a fraction of replacing them. A local kitchen design professional can help you select a paint color that will coordinate with your existing colors and blend well with adjacent cabinetry.

If you’re adding new cabinets, or have space to add a few uppers, consider upgrading the back panels. Most cabinet manufacturers offer a selection of different options, including plywood that matches the existing cabinets for a seamless look and stronger construction that’s less likely to sag over time.

Other less-expensive options use thin panels, metal hanger rails and brackets, or picture-frame construction. Choose the plywood option to add durability and ensure that your cabinets are properly supported, as these less-expensive methods can lead to falling cabinetry.

For a more modern look, choose open shelving as an alternative to traditional cabinets. This is a great way to show off favorite dinnerware, glassware, or decorative teapots. It’s also a good place to stash cookbooks and other reading materials in easy reach.

Under-cabinet lighting is another easy upgrade that will make it easier to see and reach items in upper cabinets. It can also create a sultry, contemporary feel or a cozy distant effect depending on the warmth of the light and the color used. Consider adding power strips and USB plugs for convenience.

Countertops

Countertops have a big impact on the overall look of your kitchen. They need to match your cabinets for a cohesive design, but they also offer a great opportunity to make a statement and showcase your personal style. Whether you go for the natural look of stone or a modern quartz slab, there’s a countertop to fit every style.

The most popular choice is granite, which is heat- and scratch-resistant and can stand up to heavy use for years to come. Another option is marble, which offers a classic beauty with a timeless look. If you prefer something less permanent, laminate countertops are a budget-friendly choice that comes in many colors and styles. But they’re not as durable as other materials and won’t add resale value to your home.

If you’re looking for a more unique countertop, consider concrete. It’s a strong, customizable material that can be stained in any color or given a textured finish. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to traditional stone, and it’s easy to install DIY. Another option is wood, which works well with rustic or farmhouse-style designs.

Backsplashes also make a big difference in your kitchen. They’re a functional element that helps prevent spills and grease from damaging the wall behind your countertop. These fixtures can be as simple or as complex as you want, but they can offer an excellent opportunity to bring a creative touch to your kitchen remodeling project.

For a more long-term update, you can paint your counters or refresh them with contact paper. Both of these options are inexpensive and provide a quick way to change the look of your kitchen. They’re also ideal for rental properties or if you need to remodel on a tight budget.

Appliances

Whether you’re upgrading to new appliances to improve function or add style, the types and brands you choose are key to your kitchen remodel. Choose major appliances that match both your cooking needs and the look you’re after – a wide range of sizes and designs are available to suit any space.

A well-thought out appliance plan is crucial to your kitchen’s design and flow, as they are typically one of the biggest line items in any renovation budget. For this reason, many homeowners take the time to consider and test drive multiple options before making a purchase. Some of the most popular choices include a gas, electric or induction cooktop, an oven that features both conventional and convection heat settings, and a refrigerator with smart capabilities like food preservation options.

Cabinet doors are another element that sets the tone for your entire space, with a variety of styles to choose from and a wide array of color options, hinge styles and knobs/drawer pulls. Aside from their aesthetic appeal, other factors to keep in mind when selecting cabinets include storage space, durability and a door finish that complements your other fixtures and finishes.

Before committing to a cabinet purchase, always make sure the brand you’re considering offers quality warranties and parts for repairs, particularly on the most expensive items (like your fridge or stove). This will ensure that your investment is protected for years to come and gives peace of mind that should something unexpected happen, it will be covered. It’s also a good idea to talk with a local repair man before making any purchases to see what kind of support they can offer.

Flooring

Kitchen floors are one of the most important elements in a kitchen. They must withstand heavy foot traffic, spills and drops, and they must be durable enough to resist moisture damage.

There are many options for the kitchen floor, including laminate, vinyl and linoleum. They are usually the most budget-friendly flooring materials. Wood is a popular choice for the kitchen, but it must be treated to withstand the heat and humidity of this room. Engineered hardwood is a popular option for the kitchen because it has a real wood veneer backed by plywood, making it more resistant to moisture than solid wood. It can also be installed more quickly because it doesn’t need to be nailed down like traditional wood flooring.

Stained concrete is another durable kitchen flooring material. It can be stained to look like stone or wood, and it is available in a variety of colors and textures. However, it can be slippery when wet, so mats should be placed in areas where excessive moisture is likely to occur.

If your kitchen is part of an open-concept living space, or if you’re remodeling to sell, consider continuing the same flooring into the adjacent rooms. This will increase the sense of flow in your home and help the rooms to feel connected and cohesive.

Full-scale kitchen remodels may require tearing out the existing floors to start fresh. This work typically takes a few weeks, and you’ll be living with strangers in your house for a while. For a complete renovation, you’ll need to hire a general contractor (GC), who will coordinate the subcontractors for the project and manage the schedule. However, if you’re comfortable with the basics of construction and have some DIY skills, you can save some money by hiring the subcontractors yourself.

Lighting

Whether you’re changing the layout or simply updating fixtures, lighting is one of the most important aspects of your kitchen remodel. It is essential for illuminating your work space and making it feel inviting.

If you’re planning a complete kitchen renovation, the first step is to tear out the old materials. This can be a noisy and messy process, especially if it involves removing load-bearing walls. If you plan to do this yourself, make sure you have a firm understanding of plumbing and electrical wiring before beginning. Even experienced DIYers should leave major plumbing and electrical work to professionals. Kitchen remodeling often requires many new circuits, and new wiring must be brought up to current code standards. This is complicated and time-consuming work, and it can create serious safety hazards if it’s done incorrectly.

You can find a wide variety of light fixtures, from flush to pendants, to light your new kitchen. The number and type you choose depends on the size and layout of your room, as well as your desired functionality. For example, recessed lights can be a great way to illuminate countertops and eliminate shadows. They are also a popular choice for kitchen island lighting, although it’s important to consider the height of your ceiling to avoid potential clearance issues.

You can also use under cabinet and track lighting to illuminate cabinets or highlight specific areas of your kitchen. This is a good option for kitchens with multiple levels, and can be especially helpful in areas where storage is located underneath counters. You can also use dimmers and other controls to adjust the brightness of your kitchen. The color temperature of your light bulbs will also have a big impact on the overall color of your kitchen. Warmer bulbs give your space a cozy, golden feel while cool white bulbs can create a more energizing atmosphere.

Kitchen Remodel

How to Complete a Successful Kitchen Remodel

Gary Shriver

A kitchen remodel is a big project that can change your entire home. Goals vary from achieving a new look to adding functionality to an outdated space.Kitchen Remodel

A remodel can involve changing the layout by knocking through walls, removing closets, or installing an island. It can also include replacing or upgrading appliances with more energy-efficient models. To learn more, visit www.kitchenremodelsandiegocal.com/.

A kitchen’s layout is a major contributor to its overall function and design. A well-planned arrangement of cabinets, countertops and appliances is the key to an efficient kitchen. This is why most remodels focus on changing the floorplan. Depending on the scope of this work, it may be necessary to add or remove walls, change electrical wiring and make plumbing changes. For this reason, a kitchen remodel is best left to professionals.

In addition, most mid-size and all major kitchen remodels require a permit, which adds time to the project. If you are considering a full renovation, it’s a good idea to start by setting a budget and finding out how much it will cost for the work you want done. It’s also a good idea to consult with a professional kitchen remodeler about your goals for the space and what can be achieved within your budget.

Before you can begin the actual work, it’s a good idea to get inspired by browsing Pinterest boards and home improvement websites. This will help you narrow down your ideas and show them to the designers and contractors working on your kitchen remodel project.

A u-shaped layout is ideal for large kitchens, as it provides storage and workspace on three walls. In a small kitchen, an L-shaped layout allows for the same functionality, but with a limited footprint. An island can be installed in an L-shaped kitchen to create a more open space, while maintaining the work triangle. Another popular kitchen layout is the g-shaped style, which combines an L-shaped kitchen with a partial fourth wall. This is a great option for homeowners who need to separate the kitchen from the rest of the house, but don’t have the space for a more open concept.

Cabinets

Cabinets are the largest kitchen expense, taking up 15%-35% of your budget. Stock cabinets cost less than custom options, which can be made to order with a variety of features. When choosing your cabinetry, look for quality over style. White melamine-coated particle board drawer boxes and flat panel doors indicate cheap quality, while veneered plywood, hardwood frames and solid wood dovetail joinery are durable and expensive.

Color, finish and hardware can also impact the appearance of cabinets. For example, dark cherry cabinets can make a dramatic statement while light maple is a neutral option. The rise of textured finishes also brings the wood grain to the forefront for an organic look.

Depending on your objectives, the scope of your remodel may range from a simple cosmetic refresh to what MyHome design director Ariana Lovato calls a “total gut” that requires knocking down walls and reconfiguring your floorplan (permits are often required for this work). Once you have decided on the scope of your project, it is time to purchase products.

Cabinet selection is the first step, and you will want to have enough space in a garage or other dry area to store each cabinet until it is ready for installation. You should also be prepared to purchase flooring, countertops, lighting fixtures and appliances during this phase.

When installing new cabinets, consider incorporating special storage designs to maximize your space. For example, a pie-corner base cabinet pulls out to utilize dead corners; or a rotating shelf keeps frequently used items within reach. These units minimize space wastage and keep your kitchen more organized. MyHome remodeling consultants in New York can help you plan your new cabinetry with an eye for functionality and visual appeal.

Countertops

Countertops are the workhorses of any kitchen and must be able to stand up to plenty of abuse. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, you should consider how each surface will hold up to your lifestyle, and which ones offer the best value for your money.

For example, granite and concrete are heavy materials that require strong support, while laminate is comparatively lighter. Some stone countertops can even be molded into different shapes and inlaid with decorative elements like broken tiles or sea shells to create one-of-a-kind patterns.

While contrasting countertop materials like marble and quartz can add visual interest, many homeowners prefer to go for the cohesive look of an integrated surface. This means matching the color and texture of the countertop to the backsplash, cabinet doors, and drawer fronts. This streamlined approach also saves time since you don’t need to grout, caulk or seal the counters and backsplash.

Another advantage of integrated countertops is that it helps to make your kitchen feel bigger and more spacious. In addition, it makes cleanup easier because stains don’t show up as easily. If you decide to use a textured material like granite, you may need to perform regular maintenance to keep the surface looking new.

When planning your budget, it’s crucial to account for all of the costs of your kitchen remodel. In addition to labor, you’ll need to consider the cost of materials and any additional upgrades like electrical or plumbing work. For many, this makes a home equity line of credit (HELOC) a good option for financing their kitchen renovation. Similar to a personal loan, a HELOC offers a set borrowing limit and flexible repayment schedule based on the equity in your home.

Appliances

Appliances are one of the final touches that complete a kitchen remodel. While they are not as crucial as the layout or cabinetry, they can have a big impact on how the kitchen looks and functions. Choosing the right appliances early in your kitchen remodel allows you to decide where they will be installed and how much space you have available for them. This also gives you time to research appliances that fit your budget and lifestyle.

Appliance options are almost limitless today. From WiFi-enabled refrigerators and stoves to a wine fridge or beverage column, you can find a variety of specialized appliances to meet your needs. There are also more traditional choices, such as a dishwasher drawer or a separate cooktop. Some kitchen remodelers even choose panel-ready appliances, which allow you to have custom panels installed on the front of the appliances for a seamless look that blends in with your cabinets.

Upgrading your kitchen appliances can also increase the energy efficiency of your home. Upgrading your ovens and dishwashers to those stamped with the Energy Star label can reduce energy usage by 20 to 40 percent. New ventilation systems can help eliminate toxic pollutants and cooking smells that can linger in the air.

Adding safety features during a kitchen remodel can also make your home safer for everyone in it. This includes slip-resistant flooring, a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible place and more. You may also want to consider upgrading your electrical system during a kitchen remodel to accommodate any additional appliances you have planned. For example, a larger refrigerator might require more power than your existing system can handle. A professional electrician can help you plan for this change.

Lighting

Changing up the lighting in your kitchen is a big step that can really boost the style of the room. It can also have a significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency.

Before you start shopping, make sure that you have a clear idea of what you want and need from your new kitchen lighting. This is especially important if you’re doing a full remodel where you may be relocating outlets and other electrical work.

Start by determining what you want your new kitchen to look like, which can involve browsing Pinterest boards and other home improvement sites for inspiration. You can also create a vision board to help you narrow down your options. This will be helpful for you, as well as for the professionals who’ll be working on your project.

Once you have your goals in mind, it’s time to move on to the planning stage. This includes deciding what the scope of your remodel will be, which can range from a cosmetic refresh to a total gut. The latter typically requires demolition and a change in layout, and will likely require permits.

This is also the time to consider whether you will stay in your home during the remodel, and if so, what your plan is for meal prep during construction. This might include setting up a temporary kitchen, staying with friends or renting an apartment.

Lastly, decide how much you’re willing to spend on your remodel and what the most critical elements are. This will help you focus your search and avoid the temptation to buy things that aren’t within your budget. It’s a good idea to set aside some money for unexpected expenses, too.