News
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — In these difficult economic times, with fewer new homes being purchased, many homeowners are turning to remodeling.
A Q&A with Marty Kolonel, president of Osburn Cabinets and Design in GJ, offers insight into making the remodeling experience a success when replacing the home's cabinetry.
-------------------------------------
Q: What do you think is most important in ensuring a successful remodel?
A: Planning and experience are foremost. Remodeling can actually be much more challenging than new construction. When it comes to cabinetry, selecting a cabinet supplier or remodeling contractor who has experience can avoid many disasters and unexpected costs during the process.
Using a designer who has actually done installation can also be very helpful in anticipating problems. Knowing about plumbing and electrical; maximizing efficiency of cabinet fit and size; and planning for soffits and crown molding can save costs in installation (and avoid those nasty surprise charges for extra work that “wasn't included!”).
Q: What are some things that can turn an exciting and satisfying experience into a disaster?
A: Again, electrical and plumbing can be major sources of frustration and hidden costs. For example, something as simple as cutting and capping existing plumbing, versus relying on a shut-off valve can avoid water damage during a remodel.
Other issues, like planning for the flooring to be under or abutted to the cabinetry can avoid a surprise in cabinet or counter top height or, worse, costly changes late in the process.
Q: Obviously, price is always a major concern for the homeowner. What are the trade-offs when considering various levels of price in cabinetry?
A: Higher price is not always best, although it is generally true that higher price equates to better quality. For example, while a renovated kitchen can provide a 25 percent or higher return in increased property value, over-building for your area can be a waste.
The price/value equation depends on the circumstances. Even the lowest priced products today can have a generally good appearance. However, their construction may not stand up as well to long-term use.
In the end, you need to consider what you can afford, and what features you expect. At Osburn Cabinets & Design, we carry a full range, from economy to our Signature, custom line. With the range we carry, it allows us to meet every budget, and even mix to provide higher quality in some areas, and more economical products in less critical areas.
Q: Where do you start in contemplating a renovation?
A: Begin by consulting with the experts. Don't be afraid to ask for references. Whether you start with a contractor or a designer, make sure they understand your needs, your budget, your planned use and the complexities of your situation. If you have an older house, ensure they understand the plumbing, electrical flooring, etc., so that they can plan and price to avoid surprises. Make sure you understand what is included, and what is not.
It's not just price. It's experience and service that will ensure you get your expected result, at your expected cost. The final cost will ultimately depend on the planning and quality of installation, as well as the price of the cabinets.
Q: Any final thoughts or advice for the homeowners?
A: To summarize, our advice is to budget carefully for what you can afford; don't over-build for your area; hire a reputable contractor and/or designer; and read your contract and terms and conditions carefully. Make sure you understand what is included. Paying for surprises or lack of experience can be costly and unpleasant! Done right, remodeling can be a joy and a delight. Done wrong, it can be a disaster.
A Q&A with Marty Kolonel, president of Osburn Cabinets and Design in GJ, offers insight into making the remodeling experience a success when replacing the home's cabinetry.
-------------------------------------
Q: What do you think is most important in ensuring a successful remodel?
A: Planning and experience are foremost. Remodeling can actually be much more challenging than new construction. When it comes to cabinetry, selecting a cabinet supplier or remodeling contractor who has experience can avoid many disasters and unexpected costs during the process.
Using a designer who has actually done installation can also be very helpful in anticipating problems. Knowing about plumbing and electrical; maximizing efficiency of cabinet fit and size; and planning for soffits and crown molding can save costs in installation (and avoid those nasty surprise charges for extra work that “wasn't included!”).
Q: What are some things that can turn an exciting and satisfying experience into a disaster?
A: Again, electrical and plumbing can be major sources of frustration and hidden costs. For example, something as simple as cutting and capping existing plumbing, versus relying on a shut-off valve can avoid water damage during a remodel.
Other issues, like planning for the flooring to be under or abutted to the cabinetry can avoid a surprise in cabinet or counter top height or, worse, costly changes late in the process.
Q: Obviously, price is always a major concern for the homeowner. What are the trade-offs when considering various levels of price in cabinetry?
A: Higher price is not always best, although it is generally true that higher price equates to better quality. For example, while a renovated kitchen can provide a 25 percent or higher return in increased property value, over-building for your area can be a waste.
The price/value equation depends on the circumstances. Even the lowest priced products today can have a generally good appearance. However, their construction may not stand up as well to long-term use.
In the end, you need to consider what you can afford, and what features you expect. At Osburn Cabinets & Design, we carry a full range, from economy to our Signature, custom line. With the range we carry, it allows us to meet every budget, and even mix to provide higher quality in some areas, and more economical products in less critical areas.
Q: Where do you start in contemplating a renovation?
A: Begin by consulting with the experts. Don't be afraid to ask for references. Whether you start with a contractor or a designer, make sure they understand your needs, your budget, your planned use and the complexities of your situation. If you have an older house, ensure they understand the plumbing, electrical flooring, etc., so that they can plan and price to avoid surprises. Make sure you understand what is included, and what is not.
It's not just price. It's experience and service that will ensure you get your expected result, at your expected cost. The final cost will ultimately depend on the planning and quality of installation, as well as the price of the cabinets.
Q: Any final thoughts or advice for the homeowners?
A: To summarize, our advice is to budget carefully for what you can afford; don't over-build for your area; hire a reputable contractor and/or designer; and read your contract and terms and conditions carefully. Make sure you understand what is included. Paying for surprises or lack of experience can be costly and unpleasant! Done right, remodeling can be a joy and a delight. Done wrong, it can be a disaster.
