My First Kitchen Remodel
Thanks for so much for coming today. Our kitchen really needs some [vocab word=upgrade]upgrade[/vocab], doesn't it?
", doesn't it?" is a question tag. The homeowner thinks she needs a kitchen upgrade, and she thinks the contractor will agree with her.
[vocab word=remodel]Remodeling[/vocab] can certainly make your kitchen more [vocab word=modern]modern[/vocab] and stunning. Your kitchen is already large and [vocab word=bright]bright[/vocab], so it has a lot of [vocab word=potential]potential[/vocab] for [vocab word=improvement]improvement[/vocab].
The contractor thinks the kitchen CAN improve ("has a lot of potential for improvement). After remodeling, the kitchen will become more modern and stunning.
I totally agree with you! Could you give me a general [vocab word=overview]overview[/vocab] of the remodeling process before we talk about the details?
"before we talk about the details" is the subordinate clause. "before" is the conjunction.
Sure. [vocab word=initial]Initially[/vocab], we start with the design. After we understand your needs and ideas, we create a proper design for you to see.
"After we understand your needs and ideas" is the subordinate clause. "After" is the conjunction.
Note: in "we create a proper design for you to see" has "for (someone) to (do something)" pattern. This pattern is very common in English.
I see. What happens after the design is finalized?
To finalize a design means the contractor finishes the design and homeowner is happy with it (i.e. confirms the design).
Once the design is confirmed, we’ll prepare a [vocab word=quote]quote[/vocab] for you. It’ll [vocab word=outline]outline[/vocab] the cost for [vocab word=material]materials[/vocab], [vocab word=labor]labor[/vocab], and other expenses. After you agree with the cost and sign a contract, we can start the process.
"Once the design is confirmed" means "after the design is confirmed".
Okay. What’s the [vocab word=actual]actual[/vocab] remodeling process like?
Before we do any remodeling, we’ll need a permit from the city. When we get the permit, we [vocab word=inform]inform[/vocab] the homeowner and set a date and time to start the work.
A permit is an official document. It would say that you can start the remodeling.
The first [vocab word=phase]phase[/vocab] is the [vocab word=demolition]demolition[/vocab] phase. We demolish the existing kitchen while being careful not to damage any [vocab word=structure]structures[/vocab].
A remodeling project has many phases (steps). Step 1 is the demolition (breaking down things).
"while being careful not to ..." is preposition ("while") + gerund ("being") pattern.
That makes sense. And after the demolition?
Well, after the demolition happens, we move towards electrical and [vocab word=plumbing]plumbing[/vocab] works. This is easier when the walls and flooring are [vocab word=strip]stripped[/vocab] down.
We then install the new cabinetry and appliances based on the design. At this point, you can review the work and make sure everything is good.
The contractor will use the design to install new cabinets and appliances (like a refrigerator and a stove).
After the installation, plumbing work, and electrical work are all done, we do the [vocab word=paint]painting[/vocab] and add the lights.
How long does this all usually take?
Kitchen remodeling typically takes between 4 and 10 weeks. I will be able to give you a more [vocab word=precise]precise[/vocab] [vocab word=timeframe]timeframe[/vocab] when we have the finalized design.
The contractor doesn't know how much time he will need. After he creates the design, he will be able to tell how much time is needed.
And, how much money will we need for the project?
I can’t tell you that until we create the design. The cost really depends on the materials, the [vocab word=complexity]complexity[/vocab] of the project, and other factors. A typical project costs between 10,000 dollars and 30,000 dollars. It could go up to 50,000 dollars.
"until we create the design" is a subordinate clause. "until" is a conjunction.
Different projects have different costs because the materials and complexity are different.
I don’t think we have 50,000 dollars.
Usually, it doesn’t come to that. Since I started working for my company, we’ve never had a 50,000-dollar project. Also, good kitchen remodeling can increase your home’s [vocab word=resale]resale[/vocab] value by 100,000 dollars or more.
All the contractor's projects have been less than $50000.
"Remodeling can increase your home's resale value by 100,000 dollars" mean if you do remodeling, you can sell your home later at a higher price.
Why don’t we look at some photos together? I think you’ll love what we’ve done with other kitchens.
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