If your kitchen has been affected by water damage, it may be time to take action. Whether you have decided to tear down the walls and re-do your entire room or you are simply looking to refinish or renovate your existing cabinets, there are some steps you can take to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Plan Your Budget
It is important to set a budget before you start any kitchen renovation project. There are many different factors that can affect the amount you can spend. Creating a budget can help you stick to the plan and avoid unexpected costs.
Before you begin your kitchen remodel, you’ll need to determine how much you can spend. This can help you plan ahead and decide whether you can afford to remodel your entire kitchen or just the part of it that has been damaged by water. You can also save money by choosing inexpensive materials.
One of the best ways to determine your budget is to write down what you want and what you can live without. You’ll also need to add up all of the parts you’ll need to complete the remodel.
Decide on a Layout
When it comes to kitchen remodeling, it’s important to choose your path carefully. If you decide to undertake a full overhaul of your old kitchen, be prepared to make a few sacrifices along the way. A full remodel is a big undertaking and it’s likely your budget won’t stretch as far as you’d like. But the reward is well worth the effort. In addition to the standard kitchen, consider adding a dining room or second living room to provide a centralized gathering space for friends and family. This can be achieved with a combination of cabinetry, flooring, and lighting, with the help of your intrepid contractor. Plus, it’s a fun project and a great excuse to rethink your eating habits.
Dry Out the Affected Area
Water damage can be a very stressful event and one that should be tackled with care. The best way to deal with it is to remove all the affected objects before you start any major restoration or repair work. You also want to make sure that any moisture that does occur is completely dried up before you begin any renovations.
If you don’t have the time or inclination to go through the trouble of doing it yourself, you can always hire a water damage repair professional to get the job done right. They have the tools and equipment to properly dry out the affected areas, including any walls that may have flooded out. This is a particularly important step if you’re remodeling your kitchen because mold can grow in damp surroundings.
Disinfect the Affected Area
When it comes to water damage restoration there are some pitfalls to avoid. Thankfully the smart and savvy homeowner can mitigate the odds with a bit of common sense. For instance, the first rule of thumb when it comes to drying out a wet kitchen is to never rush the process. Also, using the wrong type of dehumidifier can lead to mold issues down the road.
The most effective solution is to hire the services of a reputable company such as Restore Pros to get the job done. This entails a thorough review of the entire structure including a complete audit of the moisture levels. After the dust has settled, the team will recommend a plan of action to return your home to pre-water damage condition.
Repurpose Old Cabinets
Repurposing old cabinets can be a great way to give your kitchen a new look. They can be used for extra storage or to display eclectic items. For a more traditional look, they can be painted to match your aesthetic.
When you need to get rid of your cabinetry, you can give them to a local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. This organization accepts used building materials and furniture, and they are then distributed to low-income communities.
Before repurposing your old cabinets, make sure they are in good condition. Damage from water and mold can make them unusable. If they are damaged too much, you will need to replace them. However, if they are only slightly worn, you may be able to fix them yourself. Not all situations are the same. How you handle your kitchen remodel after water damage will depend on your unique circumstances.