A kitchen’s role in the aesthetics, functionality, and values of one’s home is huge. Thus, a large number of homeowners take up kitchen remodeling projects to enhance their space. Naturally, there are a lot of questions that come up in our minds as well, especially when it comes to the cost of kitchen remodeling. Not every aspect of your kitchen remodel will cost the same. For instance, kitchen cabinetry is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel while painting takes up a very little percentage of your total budget.
After cabinetry, you can expect to pay the most for new kitchen appliances. While that is true, it is important to remember that kitchen remodeling projects tend to be very dynamic.
For most kitchens, cabinetry tends to be the most expensive aspect of a kitchen remodel. However, we cannot strictly narrow it down to merely one answer. The truth is that every project is highly personal and is concerned with the current kitchen’s problematic areas.
For example, if your cabinetry is in perfect condition, but countertops are damaged, you might have to spend more on your countertops than your cabinetry. Doing so will make your countertops the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel
Everyone wants to know what to expect from a project that demands so much time, money, and effort. It is also essential to know the kitchen remodel costs before you begin the project.
Planning a Budget for Your Kitchen Remodel
The scale of the project is a significant determinant of the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel. Admittedly, estimating the costs of a partial kitchen remodel can be somewhat ambiguous. This is also where the layout of your kitchen and the scope of your remodel comes into play.
However, a full-scale remodeling project usually costs around $30,000 to $125,000 for an average 200 square foot kitchen. In this case, you can consider the following breakdown to understand where your money usually goes in a remodeling project.
A Breakdown of the Cost of Kitchen Remodeling
Let’s have a look at an individual list of the various expenses that constitute the total cost of remodeling a kitchen.
Purchasing and Installing Cabinetry
As mentioned earlier, cabinetry usually tends to be the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel. It can cost up to $15,000 even in a relatively minor remodel with a budget of about $30,000.
In an upscale remodel, choosing kitchen cabinets can take up nearly 20 to 40 percent of the entire budget. Although that is indeed a large amount, remember that cabinetry plays a vital role in your kitchen aesthetics and storage capacity.
Thus, if truly required, you should not hold back from investing in high-end cabinet hardware. You will undoubtedly benefit from the same in due course of time.
Buying and Installing Appliances
After the cabinetry, selecting the right kitchen appliances tends to be the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel. Outdated or damaged appliances can seriously hamper the functionality of a contemporary kitchen.
By investing in new appliances, you can upgrade the atmosphere and functionality of your kitchen. For instance, you can replace your usual coffee machine with a voice-automated one, to add to your modern kitchen remodel.
Appliances tend to take up about 10 to 20 percent of your budget. Electrical work associated with them can potentially take up around 5 to 10 percent of your budget as well.
Purchasing and Installing Countertops
Kitchen countertops are well known for their contribution to the aesthetics of a kitchen. They rank third in the list of candidates for the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel.
Apart from their design, you should ensure that the countertop materials match the cabinetry and add to your kitchen’s overall functionality.
For example, if you like to cook a lot, then go for heat-resistant worktops. Depending on the material chosen, kitchen countertops can take up around 10 to 30 percent of your budget.
The Basics of Your Kitchen
The basics of your kitchen include elements like flooring, framing, and painting. It could also include drywall replacements and other similar renovations.
Although they do not appear costly, they can amount to nearly 10 to 20 percent of your entire budget. Thus, make sure that you spend wisely and prudently in this regard.
Plumbing Fixtures
The kitchen’s faucet is one of the most used elements of the room. As a result, it tends to accumulate rust and get corroded in the long run. Thus, you should consider investing in high-end fixtures that are relatively resistant to such damages.
If your kitchen has an island top with a washing unit for meat and vegetables, ensure its quality as well. The good news is that even the best quality fixtures will usually take up less than 5 percent of your budget.
Fitting of Appliances and Plumbing Work
After installing a new sink, you will have to hire a plumber’s services to fix your kitchen appliances and fixtures. You will also have to enlist professional assistance for getting garbage disposal units and dishwashers placed strategically. Such work tends to take up about 5 to 10 percent of your kitchen remodeling budget.
HVAC Work
Before you begin, it’s important to know that an HVAC system is highly sensitive. An amateurish and clumsy DIY attempt can be potentially disastrous.
Thus, we highly recommend enlisting the help of a professional contractor for this purpose. Fortunately, it only takes up around 5 percent of your entire budget. You should safely pay up that amount and not risk your family’s safety.
How to Ensure a Smooth Kitchen Remodeling Experience
Remember that there could be unexpected events during your kitchen remodeling project despite your best efforts. For example, there are often unforeseen expenses despite your meticulous budget planning. You should be prepared for such incidents beforehand, instead of getting stressed when they happen.
Try to limit the amount you spend on appliances, and learn how your selection of cabinets and kitchen countertops can affect your expenses. If you find the process too intimidating, you can opt for the free consultation services that many kitchen remodeling companies near you offer to help you plan out your kitchen remodeling process better.
With these simple and effective measures, you will be able to achieve the kitchen of your dreams.
