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    The Insider's Guide to Kitchen and Bath Remodeling in Pittsburgh

    by Don's Appliances

    A woman tracing a graphic blueprint of a kitchen remodel

    At a Glance:

    We Know Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

    Tips for Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Like a Pro

    What’s In?

    Why Trust Us?

    Embarking on a kitchen or bathroom remodel, Pittsburgh? Our insider guide is your essential companion, offering expert insights, local trends, and practical tips. From choosing the right materials to navigating Steel City's unique architectural landscape, we'll help you transform your space with confidence and style. Learn what local designers and builders have to say about the latest trends in kitchen and bath remodeling along with our input about the topic.

    Discover the Best Kitchen and Bath Deals

    Explore everything you need for kitchen and bath remodels here at Don's Appliances.

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    We Know Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

    Don's Appliances stands out as a beacon of reliability and expertise in the realm of kitchen and bathroom remodeling Pittsburgh has trusted for more than 50 years. Our deep understanding and expert product know-how of appliances and fixtures ensures that our customers receive insightful kitchen remodel tips and bathroom remodel tips tailored to specific needs.

    What truly sets Don's Appliances apart from the competition is our local recognition and commitment to going the extra mile for their clients. Along with our appliance expertise, at Don's, Pittsburgh homeowners have access to an exclusive array of services, including our WATERSOURCE service with design consultation to help customers make informed decisions that align with their vision and requirements.

    If you’re looking for inspiration, you’ll love our exclusive The Galley services with the latest displays of innovative and functional kitchen solutions from top brands in on the market. Our comprehensive approach by combining high-quality products with personalized services makes Don's Appliances the ultimate source for bathroom and kitchen remodeling Pittsburgh locals can choose.

    Tips for Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Like a Pro

    Don’s Appliances is committed to assisting home remodeling Pittsburgh homeowners can trust for quality and service, so we understand a smooth renovation process also involves some proactive planning on the homeowner's part. If you have wondered, “What do I need to know before remodeling a kitchen?” Here are some bathroom remodel tips and kitchen remodeling tips to help navigate the financial aspects of kitchen and bath renovations effectively:

    Setting Up a Budget

     A man, woman, and child sitting a table doing budgeting

    You will want to consider how much you plan to spend on your kitchen/bath remodel. The amount to spend on a kitchen or bathroom remodel varies widely based on the project's scope, the materials selected, and the property's value.

    As a general guideline, investing 5% to 15% of your home's value in a kitchen remodel and 3% to 7% for a bathroom can enhance your property without over-capitalizing. Additionally, it’s wise to set aside an additional 20% of your project budget for unforeseen expenses.

    Kitchen Remodel Budget

    A general cost breakdown for a kitchen remodel might look something like this:

    • Kitchen Appliances: $3,000-$10,000, or about 14% of your overall budget. High-end or luxury appliances will be at the top end of this range.
    • Kitchen Cabinets: $5,000-$15,000, or about 29% of your overall budget. This is often the largest kitchen remodel expense.
    • Kitchen Countertops: $2,000-$4,000, or about 10% of your overall budget. Materials like granite or quartz can push costs toward the higher end.
    • Labor and Services: Labor costs can vary, but they typically account for 20%-35% of the total budget. This includes the installation of appliances, cabinetry, and fixtures.

    Learn More: 7 Energy Star Appliances with Cutting-Edge Features

    Bathroom Kitchen Remodel

    For bathrooms, a similar breakdown might include:

    • Bathroom Fixtures: $2,000-$8,000, depending on the quality and design of fixtures like sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.
    • Tiles and Flooring: $1,500-$4,500, which can vary widely based on the materials chosen and the bathroom's size.
    • Labor and Services: As with kitchens, expect labor to consume 20%-35% of your total bathroom remodel budget.

    Remember, these figures are general estimates and can fluctuate based on local labor rates, the complexity of the job, and the quality of materials used. Designer Maggie Dobkin Cham—a local interior designer Pittsburgh homeowners can contact as madDesigns—states, “A professional designer can help you save money in the long run by walking you through the various scenarios, appliances and fixtures to work within the whole budget so you don’t end up over budget or frustrated and redoing things.” At Don’s Appliances, we offer that valuable insight and assistance, from appliance selection and installation to fixtures, to ensure your remodel meets your expectations within your budget.

    Planning Your Purchases

    Measuring your kitchen or bathroom accurately is crucial for planning renovations to be sure new appliances and fixtures fit perfectly. Start by measuring the room's length, width, and height, then note the dimensions and locations of windows, doors, and utilities. Knowing how to measure a kitchen and how to measure a bathroom properly prevents costly mistakes and helps in creating efficient and aesthetically pleasing designs.

    Questions for Your Contractor

    When hiring a contractor for your home renovation, asking the right questions can ensure you choose a professional who meets your needs and expectations. Here are a few essential questions experts recommend:

    What to Ask Why?
    Do you have a list of references? Checking references provides insight into the contractor's work quality and customer satisfaction.
    What is your experience working with interior designers? This question is crucial if you're planning to hire a designer because it indicates a contractor's ability to collaborate on design elements.
    How long have you been offering your services? Experience matters in renovation projects. Knowing how long they've been in business can help you gauge their expertise and stability.
    Is a contractor licensed, insured, and bonded? Confirming these details ensures you're working with a legitimate professional who can cover damages or injuries that might occur during the project.
    Can you provide a detailed project timeline and estimate? Understanding a project's scope, timeline, and costs upfront can help manage your expectations and budget.
    How do you handle changes or unexpected challenges during a project? Flexibility and problem-solving are key traits of a good contractor. Knowing their approach to unforeseen issues can give you peace of mind.
    What is your communication style and frequency Regular updates and open communication are essential for a smooth renovation process. Ensure their style aligns with your expectations.

    Building a Project Deadline

    Planning a project deadline for a kitchen or bath remodel involves clear steps to ensure timeliness and efficiency. When it comes to planning a home renovation, Pittsburgh homeowners can save a lot of headaches by using the following format:

    1. Define Scope: Clearly outline what the remodel will entail. Decide on changes to layout, structural alterations, and design updates. Our local designer Maggie Dobkin Cham recommends “Start with lists! Wish list and then prioritize…your wish list is both how you want to function in your space (love to cook, love to entertain, bar space, just want to hang with the family and get homework done…and so on).”
    2. Hire Professionals: Choose your contractor, designer, and any other professionals needed. Their availability will impact your timeline.
    3. Set a Realistic Deadline: Consult with your hired professionals to estimate a completion date. Consider factors like the project's complexity, order lead times for materials and appliances, and their current workload.
    4. Build in Buffer Time: Add extra time to your deadline to account for unexpected delays, such as back-ordered materials or unforeseen structural issues.
    5. Plan for Pre-Work: Allocate time for prep work before the actual renovation begins, including clearing the space, securing necessary permits, and finalizing design details.
    6. Monitor Progress: Stay in regular communication with your contractor to ensure the project stays on track. Be prepared to adjust plans if necessary.
    7. Final Review and Adjustments: Before considering the project complete, review the work to ensure everything meets your standards. Allow time for any final adjustments.

    By following these steps and maintaining flexibility, you can set a realistic deadline for your kitchen or bath remodel, helping to minimize stress and ensure successful project completion.

    Learn More: 7 Time-Saving Appliances for Busy Homes

    What’s In?

    Current kitchen and bathroom remodel trends emphasize functionality, sustainability, and personalization. In kitchens, there's a move towards open layouts with multi-functional islands, smart appliances, and sustainable materials. Bold color choices and mixed-metal finishes are also popular. Bathroom trends focus on spa-like amenities, such as large walk-in showers, statement tiles, and eco-friendly fixtures. Both spaces are seeing an increase in smart technology integration for enhanced convenience and energy efficiency.

    Popular Kitchen Designs

    Don’s Pittsburgh’s Finest Kitchens & Baths magazine is the areas’ essential resource for those seeking inspiration and insight into the latest kitchen design trends. Our publication features a curated collection of stunning kitchen remodels, showcasing the innovation and craftsmanship that Pittsburgh homeowners have brought to their spaces. With an emphasis on kitchen designs, the magazine explores a range of styles from sleek, modern aesthetics to warm, traditional approaches, demonstrating how functionality and beauty can merge seamlessly in the heart of the home. The pages are filled with vivid photography and detailed articles that highlight the unique features and smart solutions implemented in each project, from state-of-the-art appliances and sustainable materials to clever storage options and custom cabinetry.

    The magazine also dives into the current trends captivating the world of kitchen design. Minimalism continues to be a significant influence, with clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a neutral color palette defining the look. However, there's a growing interest in adding personal touches through bold backsplashes, statement lighting, and pops of color, allowing homeowners to create spaces that truly reflect their personalities and lifestyles.

    Sustainability and integrated technology are other significant trends in kitchen remodels. Homeowners increasingly seek energy-efficient appliances, sustainable materials, and smart home technology to create kitchens that are both environmentally friendly and highly functional. This includes everything from energy-saving refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens to smart lighting and automated systems for waste management. The emphasis is on creating spaces that are conscious of environmental impact while providing modern comforts and convenience.


    Popular Bathroom Designs

    Don’s WATERSOURCE Services offers the latest in bathroom innovation and design in Pittsburgh with an unmatched selection of high-end fixtures and appliances that cater to the latest remodeling trends. At the heart of this curated experience is Don’s expansive showroom, where homeowners can explore a diverse range of products from leading brands, ensuring every bathroom remodel meets the pinnacle of luxury and functionality.

    Expert consultants are available to guide customers through the selection process, offering personalized advice that aligns with individual tastes and the latest design trends. This hands-on approach ensures that each of our customers finds the perfect fit for their project, whether they're looking for the sleek minimalism of contemporary designs or the warm, inviting atmosphere of traditional aesthetics. From luxurious bathtubs and showers to innovative smart fixtures, the latest in bathroom design in Pittsburgh is here at the Don’s showroom.

    Learn More: Best Kitchen and Bath Showroom in Pittsburgh, PA: Don's Appliances & WaterSource

    Kitchen and bathroom remodels offer homeowners the opportunity to transform their spaces into functional, stylish retreats that enhance their daily lives. Whether it's embracing the latest trends in open-plan kitchens or creating spa-like sanctuaries in the bathroom, Don’s Appliances can help you create the space you want. With a vast selection of brands and products to meet every need and budget, Don’s turns your renovation dreams into reality, making your home truly exceptional. Shop our selection online today or contact us in-store to learn more!

    Why Trust Don’s Appliances?

    Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.

    When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.

    Shop Kitchen and Bath Supplies at Don’s

    Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop for kitchen and bath items online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you with your kitchen and bath remodeling — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!

    Learn More: Modern Kitchen Design: Inspiration for Your Ultimate Kitchen Makeover