Kitchen Renovation - Go-To Checklist for a Successful Remodel

Your kitchen renovation is likely to transform your home and enhance your quality of life. But where should you begin? This complete guide will walk you through everything, step by step, from design to finish. You’ll find all the necessary information to successfully carry out your project without overlooking any crucial steps.

Before Starting Your Kitchen Renovation Project

If you’re reading this article, you’re most likely pondering over a kitchen renovation. You may even have decided to move forward with your plans. However, now’s the time to outline your goals regarding the room you’re planning on transforming.

Kitchen Renovation Project Keywords

Source: AVA Construction

Functional

Your kitchen’s layout should be centred around your intended daily use. And, since you’re designing a new room, take this opportunity to optimize everything.

User-Friendly

For some, aesthetics are a top priority. We suggest curtailing this aspect and focusing your energy on making the layout as user-friendly as can be. Naturally, given that the kitchen is a common area, don’t overlook the room’s decor for any less, you'll still want to make sure it oozes comfort, too.

Durable

Is there anything more tiresome than having to replace materials or furniture so soon? If your budget allows for it, opt for high-quality materials, or at least try to find the materials that have the best value for money.

What Key Questions Should You Consider When Planning a Kitchen Renovation?

Source: Construction Rubix Inc.

Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved in planning a kitchen renovation. Without a doubt, we could have written a whole novel dedicated to this type of project. While you could certainly purchase a book that covers the topic in greater detail, for the sake of efficiency, we'll focus on the key points.

Is there an existing kitchen?

Before designing a new kitchen, settle on one question: what are you going to do with the former layout? You may need to add a demo to your renovation plan to get rid of the current structures and/or furnishings.

What are your plans during the kitchen remodel?

Now this is a good question! Whether you live alone, are coupled up, or have a family in tow, a kitchen demolition will inevitably hinder your dinner plans for the foreseeable future. As such, we’ve put together a straightforward and practical article to help guide you along your kitchen renovations when you don’t have access to a kitchen.

Are you keeping some features or replacing everything?

If you replied “Yes” to this question, then start thinking about what features you might want to keep for the new kitchen. Are your cabinets still in good condition? Maybe just replacing the cabinet doors will suffice? Is the flooring still up to par?

Are you starting from scratch?

Did you buy a new house or are you hoping to build a new kitchen where there wasn’t one prior? Doing so has both its upsides and drawbacks. 

First, you won’t have to knock down old cabinetry or deal with a pre-determined layout. However, chances are that the space in question won’t be equipped with a plumbing system, unlike a room in which there's a kitchen already.

What is the available square footage?

Normally, when it comes to a kitchen renovation project, the space itself already exists and won’t change. The room’s shape, ceiling height, and windows and doors are all, more or less, established and must be considered when planning the new kitchen layout.

Naturally, you could choose to make some changes or alter some of the space’s features—knock down a wall here, build a new one other there, add a door or window—but, typically, your new kitchen’s shape and size are already established. Before moving on to the next step, carefully jot down the room’s measurements and determine the amount of space available.

What about the room’s ergonomics?

On a similar note, another important aspect to consider is the kitchen’s overall ergonomy. Experts recommend avoiding wasted space and impractical installations. If you use, for example, a myriad of spices while cooking, have your favourite condiments within arm’s reach. If you can, take a few days to look at how your kitchen is used daily.

What transformations could improve your quality of life in terms of room ergonomics? Are you and your family members jeopardizing your body and safety to carry out basic tasks in the kitchen?

To better illustrate this question, which may seem rather odd, even alarmist, think of having to bend over and stretch your arm at length to reach the bottom of your lower cabinets. Maybe adding lazy Susans in the lower kitchen cabinets is best…

To learn more, check out our article on ergonomic kitchen layouts.

Kitchen Renovation

Source: Covem Construction

Types of Kitchen Improvements and Materials Used

After a few weeks have gone by since you started renovating your kitchen, you may start to feel overwhelmed by the array of available materials. Take our word for it!

So as not to feel lost in a sea of options, here’s an overview of materials commonly used for kitchen-specific features. We've also added links to relevant articles posted on our Blog to highlight more about each material listed, including price points and pros and cons.

Countertops

Countertops are an essential kitchen feature, especially if you need a user-friendly worktop for meal prepping. As such, don’t compromise on material quality when selecting a counter surface material.

Check out these articles to learn more about kitchen counters:

• Upgrading a Kitchen Countertop - How Much to Budget in 2025?

• Kitchen Countertop Dimensions - What Are the Standard Measurements?

• How to Choose Your Kitchen Countertop

• How to Replace a Kitchen Counter

Ready to hire a contractor to build and install your new kitchen countertop? Fill out a form HERE.

Backsplash

Source: Cuisines Rive-Sud

Ceramic

If the kitchen in question already has a backsplash, chances are, it’s designed with ceramic tiles. As of late, we’ve seen a lot of subway-style tiles, meaning staggered white rectangular tiles, mirroring that of New York subway stations. 

However, it’s far from the only ceramic tile option. Head to ceramic tile shops to uncover the slew of models available, depicting an array of colours, textures, and even shapes. With tiles, you can transform a dull kitchen into a colourful, modern, creative, daring, or classic space, based on your aesthetic preferences.

Peel-and-Stick Tiles

This second option has been gaining traction in recent years on account of its ease of installation and overall affordability. Peel and stick tiles allow buyers to choose from a wide array of surface finishes while sidestepping the costs of original materials, be they brick, tile, or stone.

Brick (Real or Faux)

Even if a peel-and-steel backsplash can somewhat replicate brick, you may want to use real brick or a faux brick veneer. If you opt for real brick, make sure it doesn’t interfere with your counter space and that your wall can uphold the additional load.

Metal

For a bolder, more daring backsplash, consider metal panels or tiles. This option is especially interesting if you’re looking to create a restaurant-inspired kitchen. A metal backsplash can also add a hint of luxury to a more classic-looking kitchen.

To learn more about kitchen backsplashes, check out our Kitchen Backsplash Price Guide - How Much to Budget in 2025?

Ready to hire a contractor to revamp your kitchen backsplash? Fill out a form HERE.

Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets—cabinet doors especially—are exposed to their fair share of daily wear and tear. They’re slammed, stained, opened and closed repeatedly, and so on; these actions are repeated several times a day. If the material lacks resilience, signs of wear will appear quickly. Here are the most common kitchen cabinet and door materials:

For more information, check out these articles:

• 10 Examples of Kitchen Cabinets

• What’s the Standard Size of Kitchen Cabinets?

• The Benefits of Refacing Your Kitchen Cabinets

• How to Install Kitchen Cabinets

Ready to hire a contractor to build and install your new kitchen cabinetry? Fill out a form HERE.

Hardware (Handles, Hinges, and Pulls)

Source: Cuisines Rive-Sud

This may seem like a trivial detail, but accessories can create a lasting impression on a kitchen’s overall look. 

While kitchen cabinetry's hardware isn’t necessarily an eye-catcher witnessed on a daily, choosing good quality parts is paramount. If you skimp on hardware, you’re likely going to have to replace it in a few years.

When it comes to cabinet handles and drawer pulls, buying quality products is prescribed, but don’t overlook aesthetics in the process. Are your handles and/or pulls meant to be very ornate or minimalist? Are you looking to have a contrasting colour scheme, offsetting your cabinets?

Plastic or metal handles and pulls are commonly sold in-store. If you can, test the ergonomics of the selected handles since you’ll have to use them every day. While pretty, a handle or pull can have an uncomfortable grip, which you may regret over time.

Would you rather have handleless kitchen cabinets?

In a modern kitchen, handleless cabinet doors are rather common. There’s either a gap for your fingers to grip and pull the door toward you or a hollowed-out groove at the top or bottom of the cabinet for opening the door or drawer.

While appealing, it doesn’t make for an ergonomic choice, especially for those with weakened hand muscles.

​​Storage

You must take some time to consider your kitchen storage. Unsurprisingly, your kitchen’s functionality hinges on efficiency and available storage. Here’s a look at the different kitchen storage solutions:

Cupboards

Avoid out-of-reach storage. To do so, multi-level lazy Susans, especially in lower cupboards, are great. You can also opt for pull-out shelves or space dividers installed in the top or bottom cupboards to ensure easy access to stored items.  

As for the storage space that sits beneath the sink, consider including storage baskets and a pull-out system for the trash and recycling bins. Lastly, use the back of the cupboards to install a variety of cupboard-adapted accessories, such as small shelves, spice racks, or plastic bag dispensers. 

Drawers

Kitchen drawers can quickly turn into a cluttered mess. Finding kitchenware in a drawer full of miscellaneous items can be both frustrating and risky if sharp objects, such as knives or peelers, have found a home in there too. 

Hence, we recommend getting storage trays that fit inside the drawers, ensuring all cookware items are organized and easy to find. For big drawers, get a few baskets or dividers to split the surface, having an item-dedicated space within. 

Shelving

One of the primary aspects to consider when it comes to open shelving in a kitchen is whether it will be used to its fullest potential.

Will they be more decorative, showcasing aesthetic trinkets, or will they be used to stack your everyday dishware? Either way, make sure to create something that’s visually appealing and fits with the rest of the room. 

Looking for more ideas? Check out our article: 5 Kitchen Storage Ideas.

Wall Coverings

Source: 3M construction 3M excavation

Paint

One of the most affordable and versatile products available to transform the walls of your kitchen is paint. Pick a colour you like, matching it to the cabinetry and surrounding features to create a brighter, bolder, or classic space, based on your aesthetic preferences. Note, however, that it’s best to use kitchen-specific paints given the exposure to moisture, heat, and dirt, compared to that of other areas around the house.

Check out our article on kitchen and bathroom painting projects for more information.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper has made quite the comeback in recent years with easy, peel-and-stick quality products, featuring stunning patterns. For kitchens, make sure to choose a moisture-proof wallpaper with an easy-to-clean surface.

Decorative Panels

Here’s another option if you’d rather cover your walls with added texture, trimming, or 3D sections—Yup! You read that right! Decorative panels come in an impressive array of materials, such as wood, plastic, faux brick, faux stone, MDF, and so on. Material quality and price points vary from one to the other, so don’t hesitate to shop around to find the product that suits you best!

Wood

You can also opt for separate wooden boards (not panelling, but shiplap) to create a unique wall covering. However, use material-appropriate products to coat and protect the wood, streamlining your maintenance routine down the line.

Brick

Brick is found in both traditionally classic homes and contemporary decor. If you’re looking to have exposed brick walls in your kitchen, plan this project down to the smallest detail, especially if your walls aren’t yet covered in bricks.

For a cheaper and faster option, opt for decorative brick panelling. However, for real brick cladding, consider whether your home is structurally sound enough to uphold the additional load.

Stone

Like brick, stone is a rich material, one that adds a hint of elegance to a kitchen. If you plan on using real stone, set aside a substantial chunk of your budget. Naturally, you can also find veneer options that mimic the genuine look of stone.

Concrete

You can add thin coats of concrete to your walls, making for an industrial-inspired look. You can also find concrete tiles or products mimicking the genuine look of concrete. Lastly, you can create a faux finish with paint or specially designed products sold at local hardware stores.

Ceramic Tiles

See the section dedicated to backsplashes.

Ready to hire contractors for your kitchen wall coverings? Fill out a form HERE.

Flooring

Kitchen floors must be exceptionally durable given that they’re exposed to water, food, heat, and a slew of other elements that complicate maintenance. Hence, choosing flooring that suits your aesthetic preferences and simplifies your cleaning routine is paramount. Here’s a list of kitchen flooring to prioritize:

For more information about kitchen flooring, check out our Kitchen Flooring Buying Guide.

Ready to hire a contractor to lay your new kitchen flooring? Fill out a form HERE.

Plumbing and Electricals

Source: Generational Homes Inc.

We combined electrical and plumbing renovations into one category. Even though electricity and water don’t mix well, they often go hand-in-hand during a renovation project. If you have to, for example, upgrade all the plumbing, take advantage of the fact that the walls are open to then update the kitchen’s electrical installations. Let’s start by detailing the primary kitchen plumbing components.

Plumbing

First, you’re likely to experience something completely different if you’re working with outdated kitchen plumbing. As such, everything should be replaced. On the other hand, if you’re building a kitchen in a space that didn’t host a kitchen prior, you’ll have to start from scratch.

Before considering what type of faucet you’d like or sink that would best fit your decor, consult a plumbing expert who can help guide you based on your needs.

What plumbing features are a part of a kitchen setup?

• Pipes

• Faucet

• Sink

• Dishwasher

• Accessories (garbage disposal, water filter)

• Other plumbing systems can be found throughout the house, including the water heater, air conditioner, heating system, and more.

Are you working with an unlicensed, weekend plumber? Note that in doing so, the little money you save is likely to go toward paying off your fine. Under no circumstances should plumbing work be entrusted to anyone but industry experts.

As a homeowner, you can carry out minor DIY projects, such as changing a sink or faucet, but steer clear of piping, it’s strictly prohibited.

Here are some helpful plumbing-related articles, in case you've reached that stage of your kitchen renovation:

• Everything You Need to Know About Kitchen Plumbing

• Plumbing Renovation Price Guide - How Much to Budget in 2024?

• 8 Different Faucet Models for Kitchen Sinks

• How to Replace Your Kitchen Sink

• Garbage Disposals Models & Installation

Looking for a plumber for your kitchen renovation project? Fill out a form HERE.

Electricals

In your new kitchen, you’re going to want decent lighting, allowing you to carry out different kitchen-focused activities, such as:

• Meal prep

• Help the kids with their homework

• Spend time with friends

• Any other function your kitchen serves (office, living room, dining room)

Designing a lighting scheme is an art in and of itself, one that’s much harder to put together than it seems. As such, we strongly suggest hiring experts, either interior designers, decorators, or specialized contractors. These professionals can help you put together a lighting scheme that will make your kitchen beyond cozy, welcoming, and above all, user-friendly!

For an initial understanding of the subject matter, take a look at these two articles:

• The Different Types of Light Fixtures

• Recessed Lighting: How to Have a Well-Lit Kitchen

Electrical Wiring

Beyond lighting, one has to consider the power supply needed for kitchen appliances. Appliances are considered some of the most energy-intensive devices in a home, and as such, it’s beyond important that the electrical system is up-to-date and compliant, meeting their power-related needs.

In a lot of old houses, electrical panels aren’t up to standard and struggle to supply enough power to allow appliances to function optimally. To prevent hazards and disruptive factors (most especially power outages), take advantage of your kitchen remodel to upgrade some (or all) electrical systems that power your kitchen.

For more information about electrical work, check out our article Replacing an Electrical Panel - What Are the Costs in 2025?

Are you looking to hire an electrician to set up your kitchen’s electrical wiring? Fill out a form HERE.

How Much to Budget for a Kitchen Renovation?

Source: Cuisines Rive-Sud

Kitchen renovation projects can incur considerable expenses. That being said, if you take the time to assess things accurately, there’s no need to pay a fortune to achieve something that lives up to expectations. Also, avoid unpleasant surprises associated with unexpected circumstances by including a financial margin that represents more or less 15% of your budget.

Conduct a preliminary estimate with regard to the amount you’re willing to spend on this project. It may be completely unrealistic, given that it’s not based on exact numbers. Afterward, repeat the process, but this time, look at potential renovation project items or discuss price points with your contractor (if applicable).

Kitchen Renovation Building Standards in Quebec

In Quebec, kitchen renovations must be compliant with Quebec’s Building Code, which mirrors that of the National Building Code of Canada, with province-specific amendments. The Code details the technical requirements related to all construction jobs done on public buildings and installations in Quebec.

Contractors

Source: Construction Rubix Inc.

This guide was designed to help you whether you choose to head the DIY route or hire a renovation contractor. Note, however, that even if you do choose to DIY your kitchen renos, you’ll still need to hire specialists to carry out tasks like plumbing and electrical work. In some parts of Canada (like Quebec), doing so is the law.

Have you decided to hand over the entire job to a licensed contractor? If so, you’ll be asked to choose between a general contractor, who can oversee the project from start to finish, or hire a different specialized contractor for each task. To help with your decision-making process, check out our article on the matter.

Aren’t sure where to start to find a qualified kitchen renovation contractor? Fill out a form HERE, and we’ll match you with certified contractors.

Here’s an article that outlines key selection criteria to help guide your decision-making process once you’ve received project quotes: 

• Finding the Right Contractor for Your Renovation Project

Kitchen Renovation Steps

No matter which part of your home you're renovating, every large-scale residential project follows four essential steps:

1. Planning

2. Design and contractor selection

3. Obtaining permits

4. Executing the work

For more information, check out our article.

Useful Tips for Tackling a Kitchen Renovation Project

Source: MTL Contractors

What should I consider when hiring a contractor?

• Experience

• References

• Insurance

• Quote comparison

How can I keep track of the jobsite?

• Visit the worksite regularly.

• Verify the quality of the work done.

• Report any issues to the contractor.

• Check all invoices and payments.

How can I cope with unexpected circumstances?

• Plan for some leeway in your budget to deal with unexpected circumstances.

• Define change management methods ahead of time.

How can I stay on top of things throughout the project?

Some questions to consider:

• Can I stay on-site throughout the project?

• What are my options?

• What if the work takes longer than expected?

How do I manage stress during the project?

A kitchen renovation can make for a stressful endeavour, disrupting your daily routine for several days, maybe even weeks. Planning ahead of time is key to better managing during this period and limiting disruptions. Put together a strategy to ensure you’re eating healthily, have access to running water, and create a makeshift dining area. Doing so will foster your well-being and that of your family, despite the temporary renovation chaos.

Here are key questions to work out what best suits your situation:

• Will I stay on-site for the duration of the work?

• Can I set up a temporary living space in another part of my house (living room, bedroom, hallway)?

• How long with the work take (if everything goes according to plan)?

• Do I have a plan B if the work takes longer than anticipated?

Staying organized will help you remain calm throughout the renovation process.