Sunshine Construction Inc.



Kitchen Remodeling Guide by Pam Germundsen Have you ever thought to yourself, “I wish my kitchen was a little larger”, or “I sure could use more cabinet space?” Frequently, an undertaking of this magnitude is very overwhelming and continues to remain a wish. Sunshine Construction, Inc. offers some simple guidelines to help you have your dream kitchen. As trends have changed in today’s busy world, many families find the kitchen is the busiest room in their home. Kitchens have become focal points in many households for entertaining, relaxing, as an extra workspace or homework area. As a result, kitchen remodeling is ranked as one of the most common home improvements. Whether you are thinking about a simple remodel or possibly even an addition, here are a few basic guidelines that will help ensure your kitchen improvements go as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Planning Start gathering ideas from your family members, friends, magazines and showrooms. Compile a notebook with pictures, drawings and samples of all the features and functions you want in your new kitchen. A well-thought out, detailed plan is a must. Dream a little! This is the time when you can have your fixtures, appliances and cabinets located where you want them! How would you like to handle food storage, preparation and clean up? Don’t be limited by your existing walls. Many of Sunshine’s customers are removing walls, extending kitchen and family rooms thus opening small boxy areas into large spacious rooms. Once you have determined the layout, style and size of your new room, you will be ready to start sorting through all of your options. You may optimize the dollars you spend by identifying what is truly important and what would be nice to have. The five major categories in planning your kitchen are: • Cabinets • Countertops • Flooring • Fixtures • Appliances There is a vast array of styles, colors, finishes and manufacturers available to you. Remember, the more decisions you make now, the fewer you will have to make later. All work, whether it is a remodel or addition/extension should be performed with the proper permits. This will benefit and protect you, the Homeowner. Choosing a Contractor A contractor can help you to pull together all the elements of your kitchen, working around the existing limitations, addressing technical issues like plumbing and lighting, and help give you ideas about products and material selections. It is recommended you obtain at least three written estimates. If you make a detailed list, you will avoid confusion about the products to be used and the work to be performed. Your bids will be more accurate and easily compared. When receiving an estimate, all allowanced items should be listed (An allowance is a dollar amount for a particular item not yet chosen or purchased. The allowance is the portion included in the estimate or contract the Contractor will purchase in the future). Find out from all Contractors how long your improvements will take. Check the Contractor’s references and ask if the work he has done for them is of the same complexity or style as your project (keeping in mind no two projects are exactly the same). It is also advisable to visit some jobs in progress or completed jobs (you will take in the most by actually seeing some of their work). Always verify the Contractor’s license with the Contractor’s State License Board to make sure their license is current, active and in good standing. Get a current certificate of workers compensation and liability insurance. Contract A signed contract is the contractor’s authorization to start your project. Have it in writing! The written contract protects both you and the contractor. Do not sign anything until you review all of the terms with the contractor and completely understand what you are signing. Be sure the financial terms of the contract are clear. The contract should include the total price and the payment schedule. If you add work after the signed contract, substitute materials or equipment, or change the completion date, make sure clearly worded and signed, “Change Orders” are created. By following these simple guidelines, you will have many years of enjoyment with family and friends in your new dream kitchen. Sunshine Construction, Inc. would like to share their portfolio and references with you and offer a competitive bid on your next upcoming project. The company is bonded, and carries both liability insurance and workman’s compensation. Call them for an appointment and a free estimate at their toll free number (800) 953-0053 or (925) 932-4072.