How to Prepare Your Kitchen for a Renovation

Planning a kitchen remodel in Tacoma? Here’s how to get ready for a smooth renovation process.

Setting Up a Temporary Kitchen

During a kitchen remodel, having a temporary kitchen is essential to maintain your daily routine. Whether you’re in Tacoma, Puyallup, or Lake Tapps, we help you set up a functional space.

Choosing the Right Space

Consider using a dining room, garage, or basement as your temporary kitchen. We recommend a space with access to an outlet and a water source if possible.

Essential Appliances

Stock your temporary kitchen with must-have appliances like a microwave, mini-fridge, toaster oven, and coffee maker. Our Appliance Library offers loaner appliances to make this process easier for Tacoma homeowners.

Organization Tips

Use storage bins, disposable dishware, and meal-prepping strategies to stay organized. Our team can provide practical advice and setup assistance.

What to Expect at Your Pre-Construction Walkthrough

The pre-construction walkthrough is a crucial step in the renovation process. It ensures everything is in place before demolition begins.

Key Topics Covered

• Reviewing the renovation scope and timeline.
• Discussing dust containment and site preparation.
• Confirming access points, work hours, and parking logistics.
• Finalizing appliance storage and temporary setup options.

Our Tacoma-based team will guide you through every step, ensuring your home is ready for the transformation.

What to Expect on Demo Day

Demolition day is an exciting milestone! Here’s what you can expect:

Noise and Disruption

Be prepared for some noise and dust. We use dust barriers and protective coverings to minimize the mess.

Safety Precautions

If you have pets or children, consider arranging alternative plans for the day. Our crew follows strict safety protocols to keep your home secure.

Efficient Cleanup

Our Tacoma remodeling team prioritizes clean, professional demolition practices, ensuring a smooth transition to the next phase of your renovation.

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What Are the Latest Trends in Tacoma Kitchen Remodels?

As homeowners in Tacoma look to enhance their living spaces, kitchen remodels are increasingly becoming a focal point. With the rise of innovative designs and sustainable practices, understanding the latest trends can help you make informed decisions. In this blog, we will explore the most exciting and relevant trends in Tacoma kitchen remodels to inspire your next project.

Embracing Semi-Open Concept Designs

Semi-open concept designs continue to gain popularity in PNW kitchen remodels. This design philosophy promotes a seamless flow between the kitchen and adjacent living spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings and entertaining, while still reserving certain space as a defined area, like a dining nook.

Homeowners are increasingly removing walls that separate the kitchen from the living or dining areas. This not only enhances the spatial perception but also encourages more engaging interactions, making it the heart of your home.

Moreover, incorporating multifunctional islands has become a cornerstone of these open concepts. They provide additional seating, storage, and prep space—all while enhancing the visual appeal of the kitchen.

Smart Technology Integration

Smart technology is redefining the kitchen experience in Seattle and Tacoma. Homeowners are embracing advancements like smart ovens, refrigerators, and lighting systems, all geared towards convenience and efficiency.

Imagine controlling your kitchen appliances through your smartphone or setting your oven to preheat from the comfort of your couch. This level of connectivity makes meal preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Moreover, smart home devices are being integrated into kitchen designs to provide energy monitoring and management. This means not only is your kitchen more efficient, but it can also save you money in the long run.

Bold Colors and Unique Finishes

Gone are the days of greys and neutrals dominating kitchen palettes. Tacoma-area residents are embracing bold colors and unique finishes, transforming their kitchens into vibrant expressions of personality.

From striking dark green cabinets to playful backsplash tiles in bright hues, the use of color adds character and warmth to the kitchen space.

Furthermore, mixed materials are gaining traction; think of combining matte finishes with glossy surfaces, or wood accents with sleek metal fixtures. This trend allows homeowners to create layered textures that draw the eye.

Maximizing Kitchen Functionality

Functionality is crucial in kitchen design, and recent trends reflect a move toward more practical, user-friendly spaces. Homeowners want kitchens that cater to their lifestyle, whether they are chefs at heart or casual cooks.

This often involves customizing storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries or corner cabinets that maximize every inch of space. These innovations increase accessibility while keeping your kitchen organized.

Additionally, the trend towards multi-purpose spaces means that homeowners are designing areas that accommodate various activities—from cooking and dining to schoolwork and entertaining—ensuring that every spot functions to its fullest potential.

Final Thoughts on Seattle/Tacoma Kitchen Remodel Trends

In conclusion, the latest trends in Tacoma kitchen remodels reflect a blend of style, functionality, and sustainability. By incorporating these concepts, you can create a kitchen that not only meets your needs but also enhances the overall aesthetic and value of your home.

All About Cabinets

Are you considering new kitchen cabinets? If so, there are several key factors to keep in mind. In this blog post, we will focus on three popular door styles, framed vs. frameless cabinets, and cabinet construction.

Let's start with door styles. Raised panel cabinets are a great choice for traditional or formal kitchens. They have a center panel that is raised above the surrounding frame, which gives them a decorative look. Raised panel cabinet doors are often made from solid wood and can be stained or painted to match your kitchen's color scheme.

If you're looking for a simpler and cleaner look, consider shaker cabinets. Shaker cabinets have a flat center panel and square edges that give them a versatile look, which works well with both traditional and modern kitchens. Shaker cabinets are available in a range of finishes and are often made from solid or engineered wood.

For a more contemporary option, flat panel cabinets are a good choice. Flat panel cabinets have a flat center panel and minimal detailing, which gives them a sleek, streamlined look that works well in modern kitchens. They are often made from engineered wood or laminate and come in a range of colors and textures.

Now, let's talk about framed vs. frameless cabinets. Framed cabinets have a frame around the edge of each door and drawer, which creates a traditional look. These are best for stacking cabinets, or if you want to add trim or details. Frameless cabinets, on the other hand, do not have a frame, creating a more modern, streamlined look. They have bigger interiors and are easier to access.

Lastly, let's discuss cabinet construction. Plywood is the premium material for cabinet box construction, known for its strength and durability. Lower-end cabinets may use particleboard or MDF. Dovetail box construction is a technique that involves interlocking the corners of the box to create a sturdy, long-lasting structure, as opposed to gluing and stapling. These features are essential for ensuring that your cabinets are built to last.

When choosing your cabinets, it's essential to consider your personal style, budget, and the overall look and feel of your kitchen. At Renovation Resolutions, we can help you with all of these factors. Whether you're looking for traditional raised panel cabinets or modern frameless cabinets, we can help you find the perfect fit. Contact us today to learn more!

When should I remodel ?

Remodeling your home can be an exciting and rewarding project that can improve the function, aesthetics, and value of your property. But when is the best time to take on this endeavor in the Seattle/Tacoma area?

The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget. However, there are certain times of the year when remodeling can be more advantageously pursued.

1. Summer

The summer months are a popular choice for home remodeling projects since the weather is generally warmer and drier, allowing for outdoor work and open windows for ventilation during indoor projects. Additionally, many homeowners prefer to complete renovations during summer since they are often on vacation and have more flexibility in their schedules. One other benefit up in the PNW is the lack of mud! While we at Renovation Resolutions make every effort to keep your home clean, as all of us know, muddy shoes are inevitable during the Seattle winters.

2. Winter

Winter is another good time for home remodeling projects since contractors tend to have more availability during their slow season. You may also be able to save money on materials and labor costs during winter since demand is reduced. However, keep in mind that inclement weather and shorter daylight hours may impact your timeline and ability to complete outdoor tasks.

3. Spring

Longer days, less mud and warmer temps might make for the perfect time to remodel your home, especially if you want to have your home wrapped up in time for summer barbecues and parties! However, it is a busier season for contractors, so be sure to plan accordingly. 

4. Fall 

The best part about fall is if you get the process started soon enough, you can have a beautiful new home to show off to your friends and family during the holiday season! You can avoid a lot of the cold/muddy weather, and still enjoy your home during the summer.

5. When You're Able to Secure Financing

If financing is needed for your home renovation project, it can be advantageous to start when interest rates are low. Interest rates fluctuate throughout the year, so do your research and work with a reputable lender to secure the best rates possible before beginning your project.

In conclusion, the best time to remodel your home depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Consider factors such as weather, level of demand, financing costs, and your own schedule to determine when the timing is right for you.

All About LVP Flooring

What’s LVP?

LVP, also known as LVT and Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile is an extremely versatile and popular flooring option. Mimicking the look of hardwood but with hefty water resistance, scratch resistance, and often a lower price tag, these days, LVP is a popular choice in houses of every price point in the PNW. In fact, over 85% of our flooring installs in the Tacoma area involve LVP.

How much does it cost?

LVP can range in price from $0.79 cents per square foot to well over $12 a square foot. Typically, we recommend products in the $3-6 a square foot range. We carry several options in that price point that have fantastic durability, high pattern variability, and a quality built-in pad, including Gaia and Lions Floor. 

Types of LVP

LVP/LVT is an umbrella term that often encompasses the below floors, however, it is also technically it’s own category. Luxury Vinyl Plank is 100% plastic/vinyl.

SPC is Stone Plastic Composite, or essentially LVP blended with stone dust to create a super resilient, 100% waterproof flooring. It has all the benefits of LVP, with additional durability. One way to tell the difference is that the planks are heavy! 

WPC is Wood Plastic Composite. This is not as common of a product as SPC or traditional LVP, and is a bit misleading, as the “wood” is really wood fiber or dust rather than actual wood.

What are all the layers in LVP?  

LVP flooring has many layers. 

1. UV layer – Very top, very thin layer. Creates stain-resistance, enhances waterproof performance and prevents fading.

2. Wear layer – Protects the floor from damage. This is an important spec; we recommend a 20 mil wear layer, but a 12 mil should have sufficient protection for most residential settings. 

3. Decorative layer – This is the printed wood-look pattern.

4. Core – Durable rigid core of plank. The biggest layer, measured in mm. This typically ranges from 2-10mm, with a minimum recommended thickness of 4mm for household use. 8+ mm is typically for commercial use. 

5. Bottom layer – Cork or foam backing material that gives some cushioning for a more comfortable underfoot feel

What is the installation cost for LVP? Can I install it myself?

Install cost can vary depending on the product that is being demoed (carpet, hardwood, tile), whether or not there are stairs or lots of doors, and how flat and smooth the subfloor is. It is extremely important that the subfloor is well prepared for most LVP products, especially the thinner ones. Plan $3-8 per square foot plus dump disposal costs for demoing an existing floor, prepping the subfloor as needed, and installing LVP. That being said, LVP install is a popular and DIY-friendly option for many. 

Are you looking for LVP flooring install in Pierce county, WA? Contact us today for an estimate!