http://www.kmrenovate.com

Lisa Cha

I am looking to remodel my kitchen and have no idea what its going to cost. How can I find out some ball park costs nobody seems willing to help me. Do you have any ideas? my kitchen is approx 12' x 18' and I want to change the layout and get everything new.
Thank you

Answer (1)

Hi Lisa,

The cost range for kitchen remodeling is so large that it is difficult to ballpark. The average kitchen remodel in the US is around 45k which can give you a starting point. I have done hundreds of kitchens and the range has been from 15k-150k so you can see why it is hard to tell you without having more information.

There are so many choices available now that can result in highly functional and exciting kitchens but can also be very confusing and overwhelming to someone just starting the process. It is always a good idea to come up with a resonable budget to start with and we can design a kitchen based on that rather than the other way around.

There is no sense designing a 100k kitchen for a 40k budget. The best way to start is by filling out the planning guide and then we can set up an in-home design consultation.

I look forward to designing a beautiful kitchen for you.

Robin

Frances

What can I expect if I remodel my kitchen ?

Answer (1)

At KraftMaster we take care of all the details so you dont have to worry about missing anything, these are the steps of the project from the design through the installation.
Here are the steps as an overview of the process:

Step 1 (Protection) When a project is started one of the most important steps taken is protecting the areas of the house that are not involved. In our projects we install floor protection to preserve the existing tile floor, furniture is wrapped and zipper doors are installed to contain dust.

Step 2 (Demolition) All of the original cabinetry, counter tops and soffits have been removed. In this particular project most appliances were removed and saved for installation in the new kitchen. The refrigerator usually remains in the kitchen or near so that the homeowner can still use it during the project.

Step 3 (Framing) Usually the next step in a project would be any framing changes that need to take place. Framing is when 2x4's or the "skeletal structure" of walls, windows or doors are installed. This kitchen did not require many framing changes but you can see where a wall that will be part of the new island is located.

Step 4 (Rough-ins) Rough-in is when we make the changes that occur in the walls behind the drywall. This is where our plumbers, electricians and when required our heating and cooling trades people make the necessary changes in the walls to accommodate the new room design. You will see when the walls and ceiling have been opened to allow for new lighting and plumbing arrangement.

Step 5 (Drywall and Paint) During this phase we first double check to make sure that all our electrical and plumbing openings are in the correct location for our new design. Then we install sheets of drywall as needed and "finish" with drywall compound to provide smooth walls and ceilings.

Step 6 (Flooring) This is the stage that the new flooring is preped and any sub flooring is installed and then the finish flooring will be installed. Once the new flooring is installed it is protected with paper and eucraboards.

Step 7 (Cabinets and Trim) Up to this point most of the project your home usually looks worse then it did when we started. But at this point things really start to take shape. This is where the cabinetry and trim are installed. At this part of the project clients start to get excited to see their new room begin to be transformed with the selections they have made.

Step 8 (Tops and Tile) Once the cabinetry has been installed then the counter tops are installed. In some kitchens we may use two different types of materials; granite on for the main work space and butcher block on the island. In most kitchens we help design stunning tile backsplash layouts and assist im the selection of tiles to tie the cabinets together with the cabinets. During this phase as well as during the cabinet installation the appliances are being installed.

Step 9 (Fixture Installation) This is where our plumber and electricians work together with our carpenters to install all the fixtures, faucets, face plates and any other details that complete a project. This is where a lot of fine tuning takes place to put the finishing touches your special transforming project.

Step 10 (Clean Up) "It's not complete until it is clean." That's what we say. Here is where care is given to make sure that all your cabinets are cleaned out, counter tops shine, switches work and you have all your appliance information. It just wouldn't be as special if your dream kitchen or bath didn't sparkle.

Pete

Im looking for a midlevel kitchen what would I get for that ?

Answer (1)

We get asked that question all the time and there are unfortunatly no "Kitchen Packages" that are very accurate however there are typical guidlines. I am attaching a brochure that lists several different levels of kitchen remodeling that we have developed to assist our clients in getting a feel for what they want and an average budget range.

Now having said that, each one of the attached pachkages can go up or down depending on the clients choices in kitchen cabinetry, countertop, backsplash, flooring materials, lighting needs, structual changes etc.

There are so many things that go into designing a kitchen and we want to make sure that you look back on the experience and get to say "I'm so glad I did" instead of "I wish I would have" We take the extra time to learn about your lifestyle so that when we deisgn you kitchen its exactly right for you and your family. Our process is very unique and we find it best to start with our exclusive Planning Guides

Click to download

Stacy Ro

I am trying to do some research about your company and wanted to see about your warranty.

Answer:

KraftMaster announced its New Warranty a few weeks ago so its probably not readily available on the web searching so here is a link to the article and the release.

 

If you have any questions or need any service on your project please contact us here This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .If you are looking for bathroom supplies check this out .Bahtroom Suppliers.
Hope this helps,
Robin

Julie

Do you service Chatham, NJ ?

Answers(2):

Madison Remodeling and Renovation Contractors

The first choice, when remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, is to call a Madison kitchen and bathroom remodeling contractor. There are a lot of contractors and it can be confusing at first. The people have to choose one and that is sometimes the hardest part of all of the remodeling. So what is the best way to find a contractor?

The best way to choose a Madison kitchen and bathroom remodeling contractor is to ask family and friends if they have had work done and how they liked their contractor. The price he gives you will probably not be the lowest price you can get. A person that is in a lasting business can not afford to give work away long before going under. Going under means owing a lot of people a lot of money. Going for the lowest price often can mean you are shopping for trouble.

Our Madison Remodeling Services

• Bathroom Remodeling
• Kitchen Renovations
• Basement Remodeling
• Room Additions

If you are looking for a Madison remodeling contractor please call us today at 908.517.5581 or complete our online service request form

Answers:

Chatham Remodeling and Renovating Contractors

The first choice, when remodeling your bathroom, is to call a Chatham bathroom remodeling contractor. There are a lot of contractors and it can be confusing at first. The people have to choose one and that is sometimes the hardest part of all of the remodeling. So what is the best way to find a contractor? The best way to choose a Chatham bathroom remodeling contractor is to ask family and friends if they have had work done and how they liked their contractor. The price he gives you will probably not be the lowest price you can get. A person that is in a lasting business cannot afford to give work away long before going under. Going under means owing a lot of people a lot of money. Going for the lowest price often can mean you are shopping for trouble.

Our Chatham Remodeling Services

• Bathroom Remodeling
• Kitchen Remodeling
• Room Additions
• General Contracting
• Home Renovations

If you are looking for a Chatham remodeling contractor please call us today at 908.517.5581 or complete our online service request form

Betty

I am planning on remodeling soon do you do that or do I have to hire someone to do that first?

Answer

Permits & Documents

KraftMaster does it all for you, we have the necessary and required permits -- license and insurance as required by the State of New Jersey. Any contractor that works in your home or on your property should have this information. To make you feel more comfortable with KraftMaster Renovations and in an attempt to have our company and relationship as transparent and "client centric" as possible, we have included on our web site:

• Our New Jersey License Information
• A copy of the permits - that we fill out for you and submit to the township you live in. (as needed by project)
• Construction Permit Application
• Construction Permit
• Building Subcode
• Electrical Subcode
• Plumbing Subcode

Thank you.

Christin

Hi,
I am thinking about remodeling my bathroom, what are some things I should be thinking about?
Do you have any suggestions or things I should be consider when I am remodeling my master bathroom. I do live in Morris county NJ - Do you cover all of that area?

Answer (1)

Bathroom Remodeling Basics – The Essential Checklist

So, you have decided to remodel your bathroom but you aren't sure where to start? As one of the most used rooms in the home, a bathroom remodel is an important project. The options may seem endless and overwhelming but completing this checklist will guide you along the right path!

1. What type of bathroom are you remodeling or adding? half bath? family/shared bath? master/spa bath? children's bath?

   *Answer: Unlike other types of bathrooms, a half-bath permits the use of materials that would not otherwise be used in bathrooms with showers and tubs due to excessive steam and splashing. For example, some half-bath options include wood, bamboo or cork flooring.

2. How many people will be using the bathroom regularly?

   *Answer: If you install dual sinks, a vanity with two sinks provides the most storage but two pedestal or wall-hung sinks will make the room seem larger.

3. Is this a master bath or family/shared bath? Will more than one person be using the bathroom at the same time?

   *Answer: If privacy is a consideration but you don't have the space to add a separate room for the toilet, consider adding a partial dividing wall between the toilet and the tub or sink and installing frosted glass doors. For a less expensive option use an opaque shower curtain.

4. Are there any children? Are any regular users disabled or elderly? Any other special considerations?

   *Answer(1): Even if the answer is no, there is no harm in thinking ahead. Certain features, particularly helpful for the disabled or children, can be useful for everyone- some items to consider: non-slip flooring, handheld shower heads, rocker light switches, rounded edges for towel bars, hooks and countertops.
   *Answer(2): Consider asking your contractor to add plywood reinforcement and bracing between the wall studs so that ifnecessary in the future, grab bars can be installed easily.
   *Answer(3): If necessary, consult the ADA Standards for Accessible Design for information about standards and clearances for individuals in wheelchairs.

5. What kind of storage will you need? Do you plan to store linens and towels in your bathroom? What about extra toiletries, cleaning supplies and appliances, such as hairdryers? Will you need a medicine cabinet? Will you be keeping a hamper in the bathroom?

   *Answer(1): Large or small, with a combination of cabinets, built-in drawers, adjustable shelves, wall niches, baskets, bins, and hooks, your contractor can help you make the most of your space.
   *Answer(2): Don't overlook cabinet insert storage systems commonly used in kitchens, such as stainless steel baskets on drawer glides or pull out units that can be used for garbage or as a hamper or even a pull out towel rack.
   *Answer(3): Wall niches recede into the wall and can be used to hold small toiletries or to add a few inches to shelves. If you have a partial wall separating the toilet, consider cutting space for storage out of the wall or installing a medicine cabinet within the wall.

6. What features do you like in your existing bathroom? What features do you dislike in your existing bathroom?

   *Answer: Although seemingly an obvious place to start, this is often overlooked. Start paying attention to family and friends' bathrooms, as well as bathrooms on home remodeling websites or in magazines. Focus on fixtures, floors, and lighting but don't overlook the general layout- try to imagine performing your morning routine while conducting your bathroom tours!

7. Do you like the layout of your bathroom? Is there enough space between fixtures? Do you like the location of your toilet? shower? sink? How is the traffic flow?

   *Answer: When reviewing your existing layout or mapping out a new layout, traffic flow is very important to your ultimate comfort. Do your doors block any access to fixtures or storage space? Is there a logical pathway inside your bathroom that doesn't require you to retrace your steps throughout your morning ritual?

8. How is the lighting in your existing bathroom? Do you have any windows in the bathroom?

   *Answer(1):If possible, consider installing windows to allow for natural light- possibilities include skylights and glass block windows or high windows, that will let in light but still provide privacy.
   *Answer(2): If windows are not an option, ambient lighting can be used as a substitute. A surface-mounted ceiling light is a common option but also consider cove lighting. For task lighting, if the vanity mirror is not too large, vertical fixtures or sconces mounted on either side of the mirror are best for casting an even light or, for large mirrors, choose a lighting fixture spread over the top of the mirror for even lighting.
   *Answer(3):Dimmer switches should always be used to provide a range of lighting depending on your mood and needs. Your contractor can help to design a lighting plan to include a combination of ambient, task, accent and decorative light sources.

9. Is the floor strong enough for the fixtures that you are considering?

   *Answer: Your contractor should be able to assist in this determination and possibly add joists to the subfloor, but before purchasing that antique claw-foot tub or soaking tub, make sure your floor is strong enough to withstand the extra weight. Another note on tubs: standard water heaters may not be sufficient for large tubs; consider purchasing a tankless water heater if you will be installing a large tub.

10. Do you have galvanized or copper water supply pipes? How is the water pressure in your existing bathroom? Do you have any leaking pipes? Have you had many clogs or backups?

    *Answer: Be sure to discuss all of these issues with your contractor.

11. Is the heating adequate in your bathroom?

    *Answer: Options range from forced air systems, heat lamps, toe-kick heaters, or radiant heat that comes up through the finished floor. Electric radiant-heat maps that are mortared over the sub-floor are inexpensive to install but can be expensive to run if you leave them on all the time.

12. Review the ventilation in your existing bathroom? Is it adequate after a hot shower?

    *Answer: Although windows and skylights will help, a fan should also be considered. The Home Ventilating Institute (HVI) ( www.hvi.org ) is a nonprofit association of the manufacturers of residential ventilating products and provides a certified rating program to test fans. Check the hvi symbol before you purchase a fan.
13. Consider the electrical appliances you will be using in your bathroom? Will you need to add any electrical circuits in your bathroom? What is the amp rating of your electrical service? Is it sufficient for your appliances?
14. Are you considering adding any luxuries to your bathroom? Electronic controls, televisions, speakers?

Once you have answered these questions, sketch a rough draft of a layout. This will help you to narrow down your ideas. Then, the fun begins as you consider your options for flooring, countertops, showers, tubs, toilets, window treatments, lighting and other fixtures!

Feel Free to contact me and schedule an a time for me to come look at your bathroom remodeling project

Shelly W

I went to a home cener to get my kitchen cabinets and Im second guessing if I should have hired a professional or not. how will I know ?

Answer (1)

Recognize when it's time to call in a designer for help.

Find the professional you need for your kitchen project.

Redesigning any room is a challenging venture. But redesigning a kitchen poses its own special challenges. Few rooms offer such a vast choice of styles and products and require us to make decisions that will be so permanent. And it’s no small matter shutting down the heart of your home to upgrade with features that may well last a lifetime.

You’re bound to feel overwhelmed at some point in the process. Your eyes may glaze over as you leaf through stacks of design magazines or when you size up your oddly shaped cooking area. Or worse, it may hit you after the work is done, as you step back to behold your design creation and spot mistakes that are now too costly to fix.

So when do you decide it’s time to call in a professional? Interior designers Sandy Gordon of Madison, WI, and Nancy Hoff Barsotti of New York City and Pittsburgh, say it’s when:

Greg Moo

If you were going to get your kitchen remodeled what questions would you be asking as you interview a kitchen design firm?

Answer (1)

Top Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Kitchen Designer

Sometimes you just need a quick guide, a "how to" to get the ball rolling. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way to choosing the kitchen designer that is right for you. It's that easy.

You need to be organized and focused in order to make a reasoned evaluation. It's easy to be seduced by, well, so many things you encounter in a design studio or showroom, everything is so beautiful! But, don't mold yourself to the product, and be "stuck with" the design firm. Find a talented designer who you feel you can work well with and whom you respect. Good Great design work will follow, but first, ask these questions...

What do you think are good questions to ask? I would love to know!

How many design solutions (plans) do you provide?

Hint: Three or more is what you are looking for. With one or two plans designed, the vision is most likely narrow and subjective on the part of the designer. You need to see the possibilities for your space. Otherwise, it's "coulda shoulda woulda."

How long does the process take?

Two weeks? Four Weeks? According to your (the client's) timetable? This lets you know the timing expectations of the designer for the design process from start to completion. It also will tell you if this timing "fits" for you. You may also want to find out if the firm has a "policy" on changes during the design process.

May I see work samples?

It is useful to see both images of completed projects as well as proposed designs. Oftentimes the bulk of a design firm's clientele may be of one "style" or another, depending upon the region, although the designer may have proposed alternative design solutions in an effort to move beyond the typical, and this would be very interesting to see, as it shows creativity. I have more "alternative" design ideas in my client files that my clients were too afraid to consider as the concepts were not "safe."

How do you keep up with new ideas, products, industry advancements?

Does the designer ever leave the office? Does he/she go to kitchen and bath shows, seminars, conventions? Interior design shows? Subscribe to kitchen and bath industry publications? Have a library of design books? Read interior design blogs? There are many ways to keep pace with the ever changing kitchen and bath world, but it is important that this is done.

How long have you been designing kitchens?

Just a minor detail...something you will want to know! In this business, experience is a good thing, provided #4, above is in place.

Do you have any special accomplishments that I should know about?

Accomplishments within the industry show involvement, motivation, interest, and recognition, all important to have as part of one's resume/career highlights.

How mobile are you?

Is the designer available for jobsite meetings, even (occasionally) on short notice? Can meetings take place at your home, or only at the design studio/showroom? This last question should not be a dealbreaker...unless it is for you. Any availability via cell phone or pda? Mobility is a good thing. For me, I'll email 24/7 during off hours, but the phone takes a break from Saturday afternoon through Monday morning.

Will you give me cost alternatives or just one single cost at the end of the design process?

Assuming you have already received an estimate (a separate issue) will the designer tell you during the process where there may be costly design decisions and make an effort to suggest lower cost options? I provide my clients with a limited "chinese menu" of items at the end of the process, when presenting the final cost, to illustrate where particularly large cost items are seen in the plan, and offer substitutions. If a hood costs $10,000, which recently occurred, you may want to be aware of that cost! What's the cost procedure? And, what is the payment schedule?

How do you handle the labor?

Can I use my favorite plumber and electrician? Do I need to purchase the labor through your company? Will you provide me with more than one contractor for estimating purposes? You should have freedom of choice here. That said, a team approach is a good way to proceed.

What will be your role after the sale of the cabinetry?

Does the designer hand off the project to someone else in the firm? If so, you may want to meet the project manager. How often will you see a presence from the firm during installation?

And the bonus question: What if something goes wrong?

What are the policies of the firm? What issues are likely and unlikely to arise during the project in the firm's experience? Who is responsible for what, when, and why? This is such a large question, it bears a separate post, however, the germ of the issue is presented. Think of your own difficult scenarios and ask questions. Look for a reasoned response, service focused.

Sure, there are other questions you need to ask, which I will cover at another time. These came to the forefront, covering a balanced criteria of design, money, and logistics issues. I recommend that you actually write down a list of questions and go in with those questions at hand and start the interview process!

Susan

I love the look of soapstone in magazines but have never seen an aged soapstone countertop. What specifically is your opinion of soapstone?

Answer:

I personally love the look and feel of soapstone and the natural patina it achieves from oiling and wear. Soapstone is very soft and is susceptible to scratches and chips which I think adds to the charm. If you have a country or distressed kitchen and don't mind an imperfect top than I think it is a great choice.

It is not porous like granite and will not stain. Some people mistakingly think the oil absorbs into the stone but it only sits on top and speeds up the natural darkening process. It does not need to be oiled but it helps to darken and acheive a more even tone to the stone. You will need to do it periodically to darken any scrathces or chips. If you prefer a maintenace free countertop then quartz surfaces, of which there are many manufacturers, (Silestone, Ceasarsatone, Cambria, etc. )is the top for you.

It does not need to be sealed and it is very durable but the appearance is very consistent. Granite is also very durable and many stones have beautiful variation and movement but some care needs to be taken with oils, citrus, alcohol and some other liquids that can potentially stain and periodic sealing is neccesary.

Ron

Hi,
I am looking to replace my floor for the kitchen. I would love to have white floors, but without getting really ridiculous in pricing, what would be the next bump up from laminate? I think right now, what we have is vinyl.
Thanks!

Answer:

Get to see a whole lot of flooring each day.If you are looking for a step up from laminate then you should take a look at DuraCeramic, its made by Congoleum and its priced right and its an amazing product.I recommend it to clients that are looking for the upscale look of tile without the price tag. It has several benefits that are wonderful - besides the price.

• It is warm on your feet!.
• Softer than tile to stand on
• You dont have to install cement board underlayment.
• No special saw to cut it.
• Installs in a day - Walk on it at the end of the day.
• Doesnt crack when you drop some thing on it (I hate seeing the clay inside ceramic tiles).
• Doesnt require grout - can be done with or without grout.

On top of that it comes in awesome colors - wears great. Ive put in many homes and great feedback. THE KEY TO THE PRODUCT IS THE INSTALLATION!!

YOU MUST FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS or It WILL not work.

When I first started installing this product I thought it went down like regular tile ... WRONG
Then had my installers watch the video and read the instruction then its SIMPLE !

Best of luck