Plan for the cold
Spokane winters are long and cold, with about 72 freeze-thaw cycles in an average year according to NOAA's engineering weather data. Kitchen sinks under windows on exterior walls are a common place for pipes to freeze. During a remodel, insulate and air seal exterior walls carefully, keep pipes on the warm side of the insulation, and avoid running supply lines through unheated spaces.
Ventilation and condensation
Cooking adds moisture that condenses on cold windows and walls in winter. A range hood vented outdoors, with insulated ductwork through cold spaces and a tight exterior damper, removes moisture and heat. Large hoods may need makeup air.
Snow and roof penetrations
If the hood vents through the roof, the vent cap must handle Spokane's snow; NOAA data lists a 50-year ground snow load of 42 pounds per square foot. A wall vent is often simpler. Ask the contractor how the vent will be flashed and protected from snow and ice.
Electrical and appliances
Switching to induction or adding appliances may need new circuits or a panel upgrade, especially in older homes. Have an electrician review the plan early.
Water and the aquifer
Spokane's drinking water comes from the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, a sole source aquifer. Water-efficient faucets and dishwashers reduce use. During demolition, dispose of adhesives, finishes and chemicals properly rather than down drains or onto the ground.
Older homes
Many Spokane homes are older and may have outdated wiring, old plumbing and hidden surprises. Ask for a contingency and a plan for discoveries.
Permits
Kitchen remodels with plumbing, electrical, gas or structural work need permits from the City of Spokane or Spokane County.
Before you hire
Ask Spokane kitchen remodelers for an itemized proposal with allowances, a schedule with lead times, how they'll keep plumbing out of cold walls, and what their workmanship warranty covers. Use L&I's contractor lookup to check their Washington registration, bond and insurance.
Lighting for long winters
Spokane's short winter days mean kitchens depend on good lighting. Layer ceiling fixtures, under-cabinet task lighting on every work surface and pendants over an island.
Living through the remodel
Set up a temporary kitchen inside the house, since a garage may be too cold in winter. Include a microwave, a small refrigerator and a place to wash dishes. Ask for a written schedule that shows inspections and lead times for cabinets and countertops, and plan around holidays if timing matters to you.
Flooring and cold floors
Tile floors are cold in winter. Radiant floor heating under tile is an option in kitchens as well as bathrooms. Decide on flooring before cabinets are installed.
Choosing appliances early
Pick appliances before cabinets are ordered, because their sizes set cabinet dimensions, countertop cutouts and circuits.
Removing walls
Before opening the kitchen to another room, a contractor should determine whether the wall is load-bearing and what runs inside it, and get an engineer's design for any beam.