Your design is only as good as your installation
A beautiful, well-planned cabinetry design will look mediocre at best if your cabinets and accents have been poorly installed. Everything from inaccurate measurements to a bad molding cut can result in unfavorable results and added costs to your cabinetry project.
KraftMaid recommends hiring a professional to install your cabinetry. An industry professional, such as a cabinet contractor or general contractor who specializes in kitchen cabinet installation, can help you easily achieve your design vision while saving you time, money and frustration.
In addition to installing your cabinets, a professional installer will provide concise measurements, verify that all materials have arrived in good condition and clean up and remove your existing cabinetry after the project is completed. They may even be able to help you install appliances and support modifications on plumbing and other existing electrical connections.
How Do I Find the Right General Contractor / Installer?
• Ask friends, family and co-workers for referrals.
• Contact a local KraftMaid authorized retailer
• Contact the local branch of a professional remodeling organization like:
o NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry)
o NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association).
Before Your First Meeting
• Be ready to discuss the scope of your project. Discuss your ideas and explain what you’d like to do with your new space. Gather images from magazines or search online for kitchens and designs that interest you.
• Use the KraftMaid Idea Book for inspiration.
• For more ideas, Visit your local local KraftMaid authorized retailer
During Your First Meeting
• Review their portfolio and ask for a list of references to call.
• Agree on expectations and a plan of execution before signing anything.
• Ask how many kitchen cabinet installation projects they have completed in the past 12 months.
• Discuss the time span for the project, their availability for meetings and all fees that are associated with their services.
• Prior to ordering your cabinetry, ask your cabinet installer to do final measurements on the space and sign off on them.
• Ask if they will install any appliances and modify plumbing.
• Discuss daily cleanup and removal of old cabinets.
• Ask if the sinks will be working during the installation process.
• Ask if they can help you set up a temporary kitchen.
• Request copies of insurance certificates showing the installer’s coverage. Some states also require licensing and registration. Check the expiration dates on these forms to make sure they are current.
• Ask about local building codes and if you will need a permit for your project.
• Ask yourself if you feel comfortable with the person you’re about to hire.
Extra Tip
Coordinate a meeting between all project partners (kitchen designer, interior designer, general contractor, cabinet installer, etc. Be sure to agree on ground rules and who will take responsibility for what part of the project. Encourage teamwork and agree on expectations as well as a plan of execution.
