Avoid These Common Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes in 2024

Derek Obringer • February 1, 2024

Kitchen remodeling is a common home improvement project that many homeowners undertake in the new year to improve the functionality and aesthetics of their space. However, with the excitement of creating a dream kitchen, it's easy to make mistakes that can lead to costly and time-consuming issues.

This article will discuss some common kitchen remodeling mistakes to avoid in 2024 and how homeowners can prevent them. We will also touch on the benefits of working with a professional and why Obringer's Painting & Remodeling is the top choice for your next kitchen remodel.

Common Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid

Underestimating the Budget

The first mistake homeowners make is underestimating the cost of a kitchen remodel. This can lead to unexpected expenses and project delays.

Choosing Cheap Materials

It may be tempting to cut costs by choosing cheaper materials, but this can cost you more in the long run. Cheap materials may not last as long or require frequent repairs, leading to additional expenses.

Not Planning Adequately

A successful kitchen remodel requires thorough planning and attention to detail. Skipping this step can result in design flaws, delays, and added costs.

Ignoring the Importance of Functionality

While aesthetics are important, don't overlook the functionality of your kitchen. Consider the placement of appliances, storage, and work areas for a well-designed and functional space.

Restricting Your Floor Space

Many homeowners want to maximize their counter and storage space, but this can lead to a cramped and inefficient kitchen. Don't be afraid to leave room for movement and functionality. It's recommended that you leave at least a four-foot gap between each countertop, providing you ample room to move around.

Forgetting to Add Adequate Lighting

Lighting tends to be overlooked in kitchen remodels, but it plays a crucial role in functionality and aesthetics. Make sure to include various lighting options, such as overhead lights, task lights, and ambient lights, for a well-lit and inviting space.

Not Extending the Cabinets to the Ceiling

Leaving a gap between your cabinets and ceiling can create an awkward and unappealing look while leaving space for dirt and dust to accumulate. Consider extending your cabinets to the ceiling for a more cohesive and polished appearance.

Using the Wrong Type of Flooring

Kitchens are high-traffic areas that require durable and water-resistant flooring. Make sure to choose the right type of flooring for your kitchen remodel, such as tile, vinyl, or hardwood.

Designing for Appearance, Not Workflow

While having a visually appealing kitchen is essential, don't forget its functionality. Plan your design around the natural workflow of preparing and cooking meals for a more efficient and user-friendly space. A poor workflow will make prepping, cooking, and serving meals frustrating and time-consuming. When planning your new design, think about how you use the kitchen.

For example, place the dishes and cutlery storage near the sink or dishwasher and keep your oils and spices stored close to the preparation and cooking area for easy access.

Not Properly Sizing Your Cabinets and New Appliances

When planning your kitchen remodeling project, consider the size of your cabinets and appliances. Choosing the wrong sizes can lead to overcrowding or wasted space, both of which can disrupt the flow and functionality of your kitchen.

Without proper measurements, you may also end up with protrusions that not only look unsightly but can reduce kitchen functionality. You should also note all your small appliances that may need to be stored, such as a blender or food processor; not accounting for them can lead to keeping them on the countertop, where they can clutter the space.

Reasons Not to Remodel Your Kitchen Yourself

As tempting as it may be to save money by undertaking a DIY kitchen remodel, it's not always the best idea. Here are some reasons why you should avoid remodeling your kitchen yourself:

Lack of Experience: Kitchen remodeling is a complex and labor-intensive process that requires special knowledge and skills. Without proper training and experience, you may end up making mistakes that can be costly to repair.

Safety Concerns: The kitchen contains many potentially dangerous elements, such as gas lines, electrical wiring, and heavy appliances. A professional kitchen contractor will know how to handle these elements safely, whereas a novice DIYer may put themselves at risk.

Time and Quality: Remodeling a kitchen takes time and attention to detail. A professional kitchen remodeling contractor has the experience and resources to complete the project efficiently while ensuring high-quality work. Attempting it yourself may result in a longer timeline and subpar results.

Why Choose Obringer's Painting & Remodeling

When it comes to kitchen remodeling, working with a reputable and experienced contractor is crucial. Obringer's Painting & Remodeling has provided top-notch home renovation services since 2017. Here's why homeowners should choose us for their next kitchen remodel:

Situational Expertise: Our team of professionals has the knowledge and experience to handle all aspects of a kitchen remodel, from design to completion. Lot's of people are handy, We remodel kitchens.

Quality Materials: At Obringer's we encourage quality materials to ensure that your kitchen will not only look beautiful but also last for years to come, but we do not buy cabinets and materials, mark them up, and install them. We can match your budget by sending you to the store with our designer. You can buy cabinets that fit your style and budget, and all you pay us is labor and anything you don't purchase at the store.

Attention to Detail: We understand the importance of planning and attention to detail in a successful remodel. Our team works closely with clients to ensure their vision becomes a reality.

Timely Completion: We strive to complete projects on time, minimizing disruptions to your daily life.

Customer Satisfaction: Our top priority is customer satisfaction, and we go above and beyond to exceed our clients' expectations.

In conclusion, kitchen remodeling can be a rewarding project when done right. Homeowners can achieve their dream kitchen without any stress or unexpected costs by avoiding common mistakes and working with a professional contractor like Obringer's Painting & Remodeling. Don't make the same mistakes as others - choose Obringer's Painting & Remodeling for your next kitchen remodeling project in Pittsburgh. Contact us today to learn more!

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Author: Derek Obringer

Owner & Founder of Obringer's Painting and Remodeling, Derek Obringer brings attention to detail, together with experience, and superior customer service into each and every home that his company does work.

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General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors: Which One Do You Need?

By Derek Obringer • March 27, 2025

General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodelers: Key Differences When planning your kitchen renovation, choosing the right professional is crucial. Should you hire a general contractor or a kitchen remodeling contractor ? While both handle renovations, their expertise and scope of work differ significantly. General Contractors General contractors oversee large-scale remodeling projects, such as whole-home renovations or additions. They handle structural changes, electrical and plumbing work, and permit approvals. Because they manage multiple subcontractors and coordinate various trades, hiring a general contractor is typically more expensive. They are best suited for projects that go beyond just the kitchen. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors Kitchen remodelers specialize in kitchen-specific renovations, focusing on layout, design, and materials. They often work directly on the kitchen, rather than overseeing multiple subcontractors. Because their expertise is limited to one area of the home, they provide more cost-effective solutions for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchens without altering other spaces. Which One Do You Need? If your project involves multiple rooms or structural changes, a general contractor is the best choice. However, if your renovation is kitchen-focused and you want a more budget-friendly approach, a kitchen remodeling contractor is the way to go. Understanding these differences can help you make the right decision for your home renovation needs. Key Differences: General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodelers When planning a home renovation, it's essential to understand the key differences between general contractors and kitchen remodelers to ensure you hire the right professional for the job. While both play crucial roles in home improvement, their scope of work, expertise, cost, and project management styles vary significantly. 1. Scope of Work The primary difference between a general contractor and a kitchen remodeler is the scope of work they handle: General Contractors: General contractors oversee broad renovation projects that may involve multiple rooms, entire home remodels, or structural changes. Their responsibilities often include: Managing large-scale renovations, including home expansions and floor plan modifications. Overseeing structural changes such as removing walls or adding new rooms. Coordinating various subcontractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, to complete the project efficiently. Kitchen Remodelers: Kitchen remodelers, on the other hand, specialize exclusively in kitchen renovations. Their work is focused on: Optimizing kitchen layout design for better functionality and efficiency. Installing cabinetry, countertops, backsplashes, and appliances. Choosing the best materials, finishes, and storage solutions for an aesthetically pleasing and practical kitchen. If your project involves multiple rooms or structural modifications, a general contractor is necessary. However, if your focus is solely on updating or redesigning the kitchen, a kitchen remodeler is the better choice. 2. Expertise & Specialization The level of expertise required for a renovation depends on the type and complexity of the project. General Contractors: These professionals have broad knowledge across multiple trades, including: Structural modifications (e.g., knocking down walls or adding load-bearing beams). Electrical and plumbing work to support home expansions. Permitting and building code compliance for large-scale projects. Kitchen Remodelers: In contrast, kitchen remodelers focus specifically on kitchen design, materials, and functionality, which includes: Understanding the latest kitchen trends and space-saving solutions. Customizing cabinets, countertops, and islands for improved workflow. Ensuring optimal appliance placement to enhance efficiency. If your renovation requires significant structural changes, a general contractor is the right choice. However, if you want a kitchen tailored to your lifestyle and design preferences, a kitchen remodeler's specialized knowledge is more beneficial. 3. Cost Considerations Cost is a major factor when choosing between a general contractor and a kitchen remodeler. General Contractor: In most cases, they will charge a percentage of the total project cost, often ranging between 10% and 25%. Their services are more expensive due to the larger scale of work and involvement of multiple trades. Costs may include permits, labor for structural changes, and extensive material selections. Kitchen Remodeling Company: Offer a more budget-friendly option for homeowners focusing solely on the kitchen. Since they specialize in one area, their labor and material costs are often more predictable and controlled. Homeowners can choose from different levels of renovation, from minor upgrades to high-end, custom kitchen designs. If you're planning a whole-home remodel or structural work, a general contractor's higher costs are justified. However, if you need a cost-effective kitchen transformation, a kitchen remodeler is the smarter financial choice. 4. Project & Subcontractor Management Managing a renovation project requires careful coordination, and the approach differs between general contractors and kitchen remodelers. General Contractor: Act as project manager, hiring and overseeing subcontractors for various tasks such as flooring, plumbing, and HVAC installation. Ensure all trades work in sync to meet project deadlines. Handle any unexpected construction challenges, such as hidden electrical issues or outdated plumbing. Kitchen Remodeling Company: Typically, they work with a smaller, more specialized team of designers and craftsmen. Provide a hands-on approach by focusing on specific kitchen elements, ensuring quality control throughout the project. May still work with subcontractors (e.g., electricians or plumbers) but on a much smaller scale than general contractors. If your renovation involves multiple professionals across different areas, a general contractor is necessary. However, if you prefer a more direct and focused approach for your kitchen, a kitchen remodeler provides the expertise needed. Both general contractors and kitchen remodelers bring valuable skills to the table, but their expertise is suited for different types of projects.