By Josh Mammoliti
A complete kitchen or bathroom renovation will require the services of a number of trades to create your Pinterest-worthy space. Tradespeople you may need to hire include:
FOR KITCHENS
Kitchen installer
A kitchen installer may be necessary for the first step in your kitchen renovation: the demolition. Like a Blockhead, you may choose to do this step yourself, however if you’re not entirely confident, your kitchen installer is the right trade for this job.
Electrician
It is the electrician’s job to ensure any electrical outlets or lights are safe prior to the demolition. They will also be responsible for cutting out appliance holes in your bench top and the installation of appliances, lighting and electrical outlets. Don’t run the risk of any DIY work on anything electrical!
Plumber
A plumber will make sure any gas or water outlets are safe before the demolition can start. They will also cut out space for the sink in your benchtop, install the sinks and taps and any gas appliances or dishwasher drainage.
Cabinetmaker
You’ll need a cabinetmaker on hand to install your beautiful new kitchen cabinetry.
Stonemason
A stonemason will be necessary if you’ve opted for a stone benchtop. They will measure and install your stone benchtop including cutting out holes for your sink and appliances.
Tiler
A tiler will take care of all things tiles including your splashback and flooring.
FOR BATHROOMS
Waterproofer
Waterproofing your new bathroom is a critical stage in your renovation. Always use a qualified waterproofer who can provide warranty on the job in case of any leaks in the future.
Gyprocker/plasterer
Depending on the extent of your renovation, if you are removing tiles or have existing water damage, you may need a plasterer to re-sheet your bathroom or fix cornices.
Electrician
As with a kitchen renovation, an electrician is required to make any outlets or lights safe before demolition can start. They are also responsible for the installation of all the lighting and electrical outlets.
Plumber
The plumber is responsible for ensuring any gas or water outlets are safe before the demolition can start. They’re also required for the installation of all your plumbing fittings including your bathtub, toilet, taps and shower.
Cabinetmaker
A cabinetmaker should be on hand to install any cabinetry, such as vanities or hanging mirror cabinets. They are also responsible for sorting out any new doors, architraves or other structural changes that are being made to the space.
Tiler
If you are opting for tiles in your bathroom, which is the most common and durable wall and floor finish, you’ll need a tiler to tile and grout your gorgeous new bathroom.
Glazier
A glazier is necessary for measuring and installing your new shower screen and hanging mirrors.
MORE TIPS
So, by now you should be ready to lock in your trades and get the ball rolling on your kitchen or bathroom renovation.
Here are just a couple more tips to make the whole process hassle free:
Have your plan and budget in place before you start consulting the professionals. Run this plan by the trades and retailers you will be dealing with and get their feedback as they’ve been through this many times before (especially if this is your first renovation). It can often save you money in the long run.
Working with a good tradesperson is a smart way to save money as they often have their own little black book of tricks up their sleeve to save you dollars. Get three quotes for trades, but remember you get what you pay for, so make sure you feel comfortable with the people you are dealing with.
Order all of your products and fittings early on. Do this before you book in your trades. It doesn’t cost anything for products to sit in your home waiting to be installed, but trades sitting in your home waiting for products to arrive will!
—Josh Mammoliti is managing director of The Blue Space, an online showroom of the latest in bathroom, kitchen and laundry trends.
