Construction or a remodel project can be overwhelming and sometimes down right scary especially for someone who has no experience in construction. But that’s okay, take a moment and a deep breath and keep reading.

First and I mean the first step and most important step is the budget, this is where everything starts. Having a Budget will save you, your designer and your contractor time, money and frustration. Just a few quick numbers to give you an idea what it cost to remodel a kitchen in Fairbanks, AK.

Basic kitchen $32,000 - $50,000 Medium Grade kitchen $50,000-$75,000 High Grade Kitchen $75,000+

Of course the prices vary significantly upon what is being done but this gives you an idea what it cost for a complete remodel. Complete remodel usually includes new cabinets, flooring, paint, trim, light fixtures, appliances, etc. Bathrooms are usually half of what the kitchens cost.

Second step is design, but before you jump into picking crazy colors ask your self, how long am I planning on living in this house. If you plan on selling your home withing the next 10 years, we recommend going with neutral colors and transitional style, not everyone will understand your Artistic style so stick with something timeless. But if you plan on living forever, by means go crazy! we can even throw in a few crazy ideas.

Sometimes designing and picking colors and floors can also be overwhelming, if you get stuck we would recommend hiring a designer to help you along the way. Olga is always ready and happy to help with your design at no cost to you if you hire us for your remodel project.

Third step is hiring the right contractor. Always ask for references and if possible sometimes you are able to see a finished product. Many contractors are fly by night who know nothing about building in Alaska. You should always ask for a proof of State of Alaska residential endorsement license! If a contractor does not have his endorsement I would say be careful. State of Alaska requires all contractors to obtain a residential endorsement license if performing residential work that is over $25,000. The reason for this is that the building techniques are completely different from lower 48. If not built right your home could be a hazard to your health. Common problem in Alaskan homes that were not built right are black mold growth and small amounts of carbon monoxide and sooth coming into the home from the boiler.

Before signing the contract with the contractor, always ask for Contractors license, Residential Endorsement license, Liability Insurance, Bond and workman’s comp insurance if your contractor has employees. These are required by the State of Alaska.

Fourth step is scheduling, Because we do live kinda far away from the real world, Things tend to be here a little slower than usual, so planning is a very important step. Depends on who you are ordering kitchen cabinets from, it usually takes 8 weeks for the cabinets to show up here from big box stores and 90% of the time something is damaged and then you need to wait another 6-8 weeks. If you order with Premier Kitchen and Bath, we can have your cabinets here within 2 weeks ready for install.

We recommend that you have your cabinets and most of your materials on hand before you start the project. Typical time frame for a kitchen remodel is 4-6 weeks with no hick-ups.

That’s it for today! Happy remodeling!

If you have any questions feel free to talk to us, We will be more than happy to help!

Post written by Konstantin Misyuk