7 Ways To Survive A Kitchen Remodel
Posted on: 27 February 2015
A kitchen remodel can be an exciting time as homeowners finally get the kitchen of their dreams after years of planning and saving. The dream, however, often comes after the nightmare of living through the remodel itself. The process, however, doesn't have to be terrifying. Reminding yourself that the weeks of dust and turmoil will be worth it in the end helps. It is also beneficial to be as prepared as you can be.
1. Freezer Cooking: Chances are you have planned for your kitchen remodel for months. Take the time to plan your meals as well. There are thousands of sources online dedicated to what is often called "Freezer Cooking" or "Once a Month Cooking." This simply means preparing casserole dishes and other meals in advance, and then freezing them for later use, like when your kitchen is out of commission.
2. Temporary Kitchen: Set up a temporary kitchen in another location in your house. It should be an area where you can have some counter space for preparing meals, storage for both food and dishes, and electrical outlets for the fridge and microwave.
3. Dish-washing Sink: Even if you use paper plates, you will still need access to a sink for washing pots, pans, and silverware. Ideally, this should be in your temporary kitchen, but a utility sink, bathroom sink, or even a bathtub all work in a pinch. In warm weather, you can even set up shop outside on a deck or patio with a garden hose.
4. Basic Gear: Before your remodel begins, decide on what items you must have for daily living. As a general rule of thumb, one of everything for each family member --plate, bowl, cup, fork, knife, spoon -- should do the trick. Be sure to include at least one pot or pan and a bowl for mixing.
5. Mobile Storage Company: Everything else needs to be boxed up and stored. Mobile storage companies are great for this. They simply drop off a unit and let you fill it up at your leisure. You can leave it in your driveway until your remodel is over or, if space is at a premium, the unit can be picked up and stored at their facility until you are ready to move back into your new kitchen.
6. Small Appliances: You'll need your coffee maker, of course, but do not overlook your other small appliances. Crock pots, toaster ovens, and panini presses may not see much action in your kitchen on a normal day, but they can be pulled into service during a remodel. If you are going to be without an oven, they can all cook up a healthy meal for your family.
7. Take Out Menus: In the months leading up to your remodel, investigate your meal options outside the home. Collect take out menus and find out who delivers. While it is an expensive route, eating out is another way to get through a kitchen remodel.
Kitchen remodels do not have to be the horror shows that one expects. With some advance planning and a lot of patience, it can run smoothly and will be over before you know it. Plus, the end result -- your beautiful, new kitchen -- makes it all worth it.
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