If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen, knowing exactly how much money will be involved in the project is important. It can be easy to go over your budget if you need a clear plan.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep costs low without sacrificing the look or functionality of your new kitchen. We’ve rounded up some tips to help you get the most bang for your buck.
Cabinets
Cabinets make the kitchen look beautiful and are a great place to store your most-used items. They serve as a central storage space for everything from spices to laundry detergent.
The cost of cabinets can account for 20-40 percent of the overall budget for a kitchen remodel, so it’s important to pick your materials wisely. For starters, choose durable wood for the cabinets’ box and frame.
Countertops
Countertops are a crucial part of any kitchen remodel. They are an area where you can get creative with your budget and choose materials that match the rest of your home’s aesthetic.
Laminate countertops are an affordable choice that mimics stone and can withstand scratches. They also are very easy to repair.
Appliances
Whether doing minor kitchen remodelling or a full-fledged overhaul, new appliances can make a big difference. The latest appliances are more energy-efficient, and they’re also more aesthetically pleasing to look at.
However, it’s important to remember that they are long-term investments, and you should consider them carefully before dropping a significant amount of money. The right appliances can make a difference in your kitchen, but choosing the best ones for you and your family is critical.
Flooring
Floorings, like cabinets and countertops, are key to a kitchen remodel. It also greatly impacts your project’s cost, depending on the type of material you choose and how much it will cost to install.
Linoleum, vinyl, and laminate are the least expensive options; modern versions of these materials are durable and attractive. Tile, wood, and natural stone are more expensive.
Lighting
Lighting is a crucial part of any kitchen remodel. It can add ambiance and help simplify tasks like reading recipes or cooking.
Lighting can range from ambient lights illuminating the entire space to task lighting at the work area. This type of lighting is often a budget-friendly option.
Plumbing
Plumbing is a crucial component of any remodel. It may include installing a new sink or faucet, relocating the water supply, or moving drain lines.
It’s best to budget for plumbing costs at the start of the project, as any issues can quickly drive up the bill.
The cost of plumbing can be significantly higher than you might expect, especially if the remodelling project requires changing the floor plan or moving pipes. This is why it’s important to make a provision for a “change order” line item so that you can cover unexpected costs as they come up.
Electrical
The electrical cost of kitchen remodels is on the project’s scope. An extensive remodel often requires changing plumbing and gas lines, which can add to the overall costs.
A kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in the house, so it’s important to make sure that the space is functional and safe. Replacing outlets can help ensure you don’t accidentally short out power and cause damage to walls and drywall.
Painting
Painting a kitchen is a cost-effective way to update the look without paying top dollar for new cabinets, counters, and appliances. It’s also one of the fastest and least disruptive kitchen remodelling projects.
Painting can be done anytime during a kitchen remodel, but we suggest it once most structural and functional work is complete. This will ensure the paint job doesn’t suffer from the wear and tear that a full renovation brings to floors and walls.
Walls and Ceilings
The walls and ceilings in your kitchen can be a big part of the project’s cost. They can make a space feel homier and add to its resale value, so it’s important to prioritise them during your renovation.
You can upgrade your walls with fire-resistant drywall, install new cabinets and fixtures, and update your ceilings to add a more modern look. Depending on the materials used, these upgrades can vary from $1,150 to $1,800.