Orange County Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Tips

Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom in Orange County, CA has all the challenges of remodeling anywhere else in the country plus a few more thrown in for good measure.

 

To start with, the weather and surrounding attractions are a constant source of distraction for contractors, who as a group are probably more likely to surf, ski, snowboard, etc. than people in other lines of work. The weather, water and mountains are why many people are here and for those with limited education, construction is a logical way for them to sustain themselves.

 

It would not be unusual to discover that the real reason the contractor did not show up as planned was related to great surf conditions or a fresh snowpack in the mountains.

 

So what are some guidelines we should follow to minimize the possibility of our kitchen or bath remodel turning into a disaster?

 

As always, start with a plan. Ask yourself: Why are we doing this? What do we hope to accomplish? What would a good or great outcome look like? And What are we willing and able to invest in the way of time, money and other resources to see it through?

 

After having clarified what we are trying to accomplish and what our time, patience and pocketbook will allow we should start building a file containing ideas, products, local contractors and anything else related to the project we have in mind.

 

During this period we could be visiting open houses, model homes and showrooms to get ideas and learn more about the process, especially if this is our first major remodel.

 

Now we can begin the selection process for the contractor and products we will be using. This can occur simultaneously or one before the other.

 

Once we are ready to select a designer / contractor we should seek out someone local with lots of experience in the type of project we are planning. Don’t get a handyman unless the project is minor repair work. Find someone who has a location where they can be found and where you can see materials and designs so that you know what you are buying. Don’t buy a kitchen remodel from cabinet door samples alone or a bathroom remodel from tile samples alone.

 

Check to be sure the contractor has the proper license for the type of project planned. Verify his insurance and check with the Better Business Bureau in your area to see if there are complaints.

 

Finally, get a substantial list of recent clients to contact and then do so. Don’t assume that just because he gave you the information that the client was satisfied. I was once given four references for a contractor I was considering using on a substantial back yard remodel. Two of the references didn’t recommend I use the contractor, one didn’t know who he was and the other said he was ok. Get a dozen references and contact them.

 

One final suggestion; be sure you meet the person you will be working with throughout the project. Frequently, the sales person and the person you will be communicating with once the project begins are two different people with two different communication styles. You need to know that the person responsible for your job is accessible and easy to communicate with. This person and the relationship you have with them will have a huge influence on how the project progresses and satisfies you upon its completion.