What Should You NOT Do When Remodeling a Kitchen?

A Dream Custom Carpentry Blog

A kitchen remodel can change the way you live in your home. It can make cooking easier, improve storage, and give the whole space a fresh look. But mistakes happen when people start too fast or plan too little. These mistakes can cost money, delay the work, or even hurt the final result. Knowing what not to do can help keep your project moving in the right direction.


Below are the most common things homeowners regret during a kitchen remodel — and how you can avoid them.

1. Don’t Start Without a Clear Plan

Jumping in without a solid plan is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make. A kitchen remodel has many moving parts: cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing, and more. If the plan changes halfway through, the whole schedule can get thrown off.


Before any work begins, make sure you know:


  • The full layout
  • Cabinet style and color
  • Countertop material
  • Lighting plan
  • Appliances
  • Budget
  • Timeline


A detailed plan prevents surprises and helps everyone stay on the same page.

2. Don’t Choose Appliances Last

A lot of homeowners pick cabinets and countertops first, and then try to fit appliances into the leftover space. This almost always leads to problems.


Appliances should be chosen first, because:


  • Their sizes affect the cabinet layout.
  • Venting and electrical placement may change.
  • Larger appliances require extra clearance.


Picking appliances early makes the layout smoother and prevents costly changes later.

3. Don’t Ignore Storage

People often get excited about colors and finishes, but forget about real-life storage. Later, they realize they don’t have enough space for pots, pans, spices, or cleaning supplies.


Smart storage includes:


  • Deep drawers
  • Pull-out trays
  • Hidden trash bins
  • Tall pantry cabinets
  • Built-in organizers


One well-planned cabinet can make daily life much easier.

4. Don't Go Cheap on Cabinets

Cabinets take up most of the room and are used every day. Low-quality cabinets warp, chip, or break in a short amount of time. They also make the whole kitchen feel outdated much faster.

You don’t need the most expensive option, but you do need something built to last. At Dream Custom Carpentry, we offer:


  • Affordable cabinet lines
  • Semi-custom options
  • Custom builds for tricky spaces.
  • Durable finishes that hold up long-term


Strong, well-built cabinets give you better value over time.

5. Don't Forget About Lighting

Lighting changes everything. A dark kitchen feels smaller, older, and harder to cook in. During a remodel, many homeowners regret not adding enough light.

Good lighting includes:


  • Bright overhead lights
  • Under-cabinet lighting for work areas
  • Accent lighting for style
  • Pendant lights over islands.


A brighter kitchen always feels bigger and more inviting.

6. Don't Move Walls or Plumbing Without Checking Costs

Some homeowners want an open layout or a larger kitchen, but then get surprised when they learn what it really costs. Moving plumbing or gas lines, removing walls, or relocating a sink can add a lot to the budget.

Before planning any major change, ask:


  • Is the wall load-bearing?
  • Can plumbing move easily?
  • Will electrical lines need updating?


A quick check can save thousands of dollars.

7. Don't Skip the Contingency Budget

A remodel almost always uncovers something unexpected—old wiring, water damage, uneven floors, or outdated plumbing. These surprises can slow things down and increase the cost.


Set aside 10–20% of your budget for these issues. If nothing goes wrong, great. If something does, you’re prepared.

8. Don't Assume the Work Will Be Quick

Some remodels finish fast, but others take longer because of:


  • Material delays
  • Back-ordered appliances
  • Permit approvals
  • Hidden structural issues


Go in with realistic expectations. Most full kitchen remodels take several weeks or more. A little patience makes the whole experience easier.

9. Don't Hire the Cheapest Contractor

Low prices often mean:


  • Cheap materials
  • Rushed work
  • Inexperienced installers
  • Change orders later


Instead, look for a contractor who shows clear communication, honest pricing, strong reviews, and real experience. Quality work pays off every single day you use your kitchen.

10. Don't Make Decisions Without Seeing Samples

Colors look different in real lighting. Countertops look different in person. Cabinet finishes feel different when you touch them.


Always look at:


  • Cabinet samples
  • Countertop samples
  • Paint swatches
  • Hardware options


Hold them up in your kitchen’s natural light. It can prevent major disappointment later.

Final Thoughts

A kitchen remodel is a big project, and avoiding common mistakes can save time, money, and stress. With good planning, smart choices, and the right contractor, you can create a kitchen that works better, looks better, and adds value to your home.


At Dream Custom Carpentry, we help homeowners build kitchens that fit their life and budget — from affordable cabinet lines to full custom builds.


If you’re planning a remodel and want guidance from people who understand the process, we’re here to help.

FREE No Obligation Estimate

Let us know what you're working on! We'll get you a quote right away.