The kitchen can be the most loved corner of the house, but the high foot traffic doesn’t give it breathing space. There is always something begging your attention for repair or replacement. While smaller upgrades quickly happen as they don’t pinch, larger ones usually get postponed. It is not that you like them that way. Budget, time, or a combination of two can be the primary constraint. As you must be aware, some renovations can be expensive or affordable based on where you live due to variations in labor and material costs. You can do your research to arrive at a comfortable figure.
Still, you cannot be sure about the estimates without professional help. You don’t have to bother about smaller conversions like buying kitchen washbowls in stainless steel material. But major considerations demand proper attention to avoid any miscalculation or disappointment. Here is a hint of what you can expect.
Kitchen remodeling levels
A kitchen facelift can be successful if you allocate an adequate budget and enlist an experienced contractor’s help. Usually, most of them want you to stick to their suggestions, which can be annoying. Make sure to choose someone willing to work according to your comfort and affordability. If they are flexible, they will adjust options to satisfy your ultimate goal. Nevertheless, remodeling can be of three types – low, medium, and higher range. The low-end renovations usually cost USD$ 100 to 125 per sq ft. These involve lighter upgrades in the physical space, such as countertops, doors, and other items.
The mid-level project may require spending USD$ 200 to 250 per sq ft. If you are ready for this, you can expect quality results. For maximum impact, you can choose many things, from tiles to flooring to countertop. However, if you don’t worry about prices, you can spend USD$ 300 or higher per sq ft to change everything. Of course, you will have endless choices to make, from plumbing to lighting to woodwork and workstation, etc. It can be a little overwhelming, though.
Small kitchen remodeling costs
There is no doubt that the renovation cost will be subject to the level of work you intend to implement in your kitchen. Usually, anything less than USD$ 30,000 can be a low figure for this project. But a creative contractor can help you achieve wonders with the intelligent selection of materials, cabinets, and others. You can start with USD$ 40,000 for the basic remodeling effort if possible. However, if you wish to change the layout, solid surfaces, lighting, appliances, and others, you must secure at least USD$ 60,000 – 80,000 in funds. Some kitchen renovations consume more than USD$ 90,000, but these mainly include detailed carpentry or complete reconfiguration of the space.
The expert designers warn that the budget can extend beyond USD$ 80,000 or USD$ 150,000 if you add something more to the existing list.
Planning a kitchen remodel
Whether you want to make detailed or straightforward updates, you have to know your ultimate goal. You can decide the elements based on your kitchen habits. For example, adding an island can be rewarding if you prefer elaborate meal preparations. In this process, you can also think about other components more minutely. Do you want to invest in timeless choices for backsplash, flooring, and others? Make sure you don’t run after timeless additions if you believe in following trends.
When budgeting, you have to be fair about what is necessary and reasonable. Some elements can be money-wasting and can make your kitchen old or outdated. Consult your designer or contractor to help you decide if you are unsure about something. You can expect them to guide you in this matter thoroughly. Also, whatever budget and design you arrive at, stick to them to avoid blowing up everything.
Affordable and simple kitchen remodeling
It is essential to keep your existing layout the same if you don’t want to spend much. To be precise, let the things remain in their old place until you find it inconvenient to work with them. It is relevant for a sink, gas range, electrical connection, etc. If existing cabinets cannot survive more, you can select stock models over custom designs to lower your expense. Stay away from fancy additions, such as dividers, countertop garages, and others. These can be tempting to include, but they come at a high cost.
A fascinating thing about simple revamps is anybody can do them with DIY skills. If you want to save some money, utilize your talent in suitable areas. For example, you don’t need professionals to clear the countertop, cabinets, and appliances. You can manage them with little knowledge and expertise. Another recommendation is to pick up the material deliveries yourself over home delivery. Latter will incur fees. Also, painting is one of the easiest jobs. You can paint walls, doors, and window frames in your favorite shades. You will not have to pay for this also.
It can be helpful to note that medium-level renovations usually cover various options, such as cabinets, counters, easy flooring material, sink installation, dishwasher, garbage disposal, faucet, etc. You can also get a new microwave, hood, and more. You cannot accommodate electrical and plumbing relocations in this. On the lower side, your focus can be on inexpensive materials like ceramic tiles, top-mount fridges, and so on.
Before the project starts, you must get all your to-do things on a list with the respective cost. Doing extensive homework can save you from unwanted headaches later. It will allow you to track progress as per the original plan. However, it doesn’t imply you have to be rigid. Some areas can ask for a bit of adjustment. If those are legitimate demands, you must let them happen after assessing the pros and cons.
You can have an open discussion with your contractor to clarify anything because there will always be some surprises no matter what type or size of kitchen renovation you do. When you proceed with this fundamental understanding, you make this process a little enjoyable, ensuring your project’s success.
