FAQ
Your Renovation Questions, Answered
For over 45 years, our family-owned team at AKB Kitchen, Bath, & More has been dedicated to blending functionality with timeless design. We believe the first step to an inspiring, low-stress renovation is having absolute clarity. That's why we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions we receive—covering everything from initial timelines and budget to material selection and what happens on-site—to share our expert insights directly with you.
About AKB
What areas do you serve?
We’re proud to work with clients in Richmond and surrounding areas, including Midlothian, Henrico, Chesterfield, Chester, Ashland, Goochland, and more.
What makes AKB Kitchen, Bath & More different?
AKB Kitchen, Bath & More stands out as a dedicated, veteran, family, and women-owned company, offering both design-build services and a full showroom backed by over 45 years of experience. Our small team of about ten people ensures every customer receives a truly customer-focused experience, supported by our close-knit relationships with trusted suppliers and subcontractors.
Are you a licensed and insured home renovation contractor?
Yes, absolutely. We take pride in our work, and our mission is to ensure our clients trust us to do it the right way.
What types of home renovation projects do you specialize in?
We specialize in comprehensive home renovations, including primary areas like kitchens, baths, and additions, alongside specific spaces such as laundry rooms, offices, and custom fireplaces. As a design-build firm, we integrate virtually any project detail—from complete floor refinishing to small custom touches—into your main renovation for a seamless, single-source experience.
Do you have a physical showroom I can visit?
Yes, the showroom is open Monday through Friday. Appointments are encouraged. We have tile, plumbing fixtures, hardware, cabinets, countertops, flooring, and more on display.
The Design-Build Process
What is a "design-build" company?
Remodels are often overwhelming, so AKB takes a hands-on, full-service approach. AKB has in-house designers to create custom floorplans and assist with making selections. AKB manages the project from start to finish and acts as a liaison between the trades and the customer.
What is your home renovation process from start to finish?
Our comprehensive home renovation process begins with a personalized appointment to capture measurements and define the scope of work, followed by a free estimate that often includes CAD drawings, ensuring open communication from the start. Once the proposal is accepted and design selections are finalized, the project moves through a structured schedule of trades—from demolition and rough-ins to finish work like cabinetry and painting—with payments invoiced at predetermined milestones until the final walkthrough and cleaning crew.
How long does a typical kitchen (or bathroom) remodel take?
In many instances, kitchens take 5-8 weeks; bathrooms are around 4-6 weeks. This is all dependent on scope, changes to contract, and other factors.
Will I have a dedicated project manager for my renovation?
Yes, Chris Trail handles bathrooms and additions and Chris Carroll handles kitchens and general construction. They are our go-to people for job related questions, but anyone at the company can be reached easily via cell, office phone, or email.
How do you handle all the necessary permits and inspections?
Our in-house foremen handle all permits and inspections, ensuring your project comes together smoothly.
Services & Specialties
I want to remodel my kitchen. Where do I even begin?
To begin your kitchen remodel, first decide on your project's must-haves, assess your overall budget, and start gathering a few quotes from contractors. The most important initial decision is whether you prefer to manage the scheduling and hiring of trades yourself, or if you seek a full-service design-build contractor for a simpler, integrated process.
What are the benefits of a bathroom renovation?
A bathroom renovation significantly enhances your home's resale value and overall functionality by allowing you to reimagine unused space, such as converting a large tub area into a spacious, luxurious shower with high-quality fixtures like rainfall heads and body jets. Additionally, a remodel offers an updated look and optimizes space through added closets or custom cabinetry, making the room more practical and enjoyable.
Can you build a home addition, like an in-law suite or sunroom?
Yes, absolutely. Our mission is to bring your vision for your space to life. Let us know what you’d like and we’ll discuss everything with you.
What services do you offer beyond kitchens and baths?
Beyond kitchens and baths, our expertise extends to full home additions, functional laundry rooms, home offices, and unique fireplace designs that customize your living space. We also offer specialty services, including full flooring and tiling upgrades, to ensure a cohesive and beautiful finish for virtually any room in your home.
Do you install custom or semi-custom cabinets?
We primarily utilize high-quality cabinet lines that come in standard sizes, but we do offer select semi-custom lines, such as Fieldstone, for greater design flexibility. Regardless of the line, all our cabinets provide extensive customization options, including an array of door styles, trim selections, and unique custom paint finishes.
Budget & Cost
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in the Midlothian, VA area?
In our area, the cost of a full kitchen renovation that maintains the existing footprint generally starts in the mid-$30,000s, but this can vary widely. The final price depends entirely on the scope of work, the quality of materials (e.g., custom vs. semi-custom cabinets, countertop choice), and whether the project includes structural or mechanical changes.
How do you help clients stay on budget during a renovation?
We help clients stay firmly within budget by first building the estimate with strategic, budget-conscious swaps, such as recommending Level 2 quartz or LVP flooring, while always maintaining our standard for high-quality, trusted brands. Furthermore, we establish generous material allowances early on, and our designer actively guides your selections; any amount under budget is credited back, while any overages are clearly invoiced before the project begins.
What factors have the biggest impact on a renovation's cost?
The largest investment factor is typically cabinetry, which is why we offer high-quality, vetted lines and always recommend investing in reputable materials to reduce long-term costs. Furthermore, modifications to plumbing and electrical can quickly increase expenses, making it crucial to work with an experienced designer/builder who can identify and mitigate these potential obstacles upfront.
Do you offer financing options for home renovations?
Not presently, but we are looking into options that are specifically designed to best meet the needs of our clients.
How do I get started with a free consultation or quote?
To begin, simply call us directly, fill out the online form on our website, or stop by our showroom during business hours. We will promptly schedule your initial appointment to discuss the scope of your project and prepare your free, detailed quote.
Start Your Remodel Today
Our expertise, honed over four decades, informs every service we offer, ensuring our custom solutions are as reliable and beautiful as they are functional. Ready to move forward with your vision with confidence? Get in touch today!