What is the Most Expensive Part of a Kitchen Remodel? Experts Reveal!
Remodeling a kitchen is an expensive and complicated process. It is natural for homeowners to have a lot of queries when they consider undertaking such a project. Naturally, one of the leading questions is regarding the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel.
A lot of people are interested in learning more about kitchen renovation process. To do this, you need to learn about the kitchen remodel costs.
When designed well, you rarely need to change the kitchen layout. However, the same cannot be said, for instance, the drywall that may require attention. Further, you may consider changing the color as well. Nevertheless, ideally, this should not take more than 10 percent of the total budget.
A kitchen significantly contributes to the resale value of your house. However, budget constraints are a genuine issue faced by people when it comes to kitchen remodeling. You need to know the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel so that you can plan your budget accordingly. Doing so will help you navigate the kitchen remodeling process in the most efficient way possible.
What Determines the Most Expensive Part of a Kitchen Remodel?
Certain essential factors determine the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel. Of these, the most crucial factor is the scope of your kitchen remodeling project.
A minor remodel, which involves changing only some elements of the kitchen, costs about $18,500 on average. On the other hand, a more extensive remodel involving changes regarding the flooring, cabinets, or countertops cost much more. The average cost of an upscale kitchen remodeling project is about $54,000.
At this point, it is important an expensive upscale remodel may not necessarily be the best idea for you and your kitchen. Every house, kitchen, and homeowner’s personal taste and need is different.
As mentioned above, you also need to take your budget into account very seriously. A lavish kitchen remodeling project which financially wrecks you will only cause more harm than good.
Instead, you should choose a project of the magnitude that serves your needs well. There are also efficient ways of saving money on kitchen renovation, which we will cover below.
What is the Most Expensive Part of a Kitchen Remodel?
Most experts agree that generally, the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel is the cabinetry. On average, it will cost you about $15,000 or even more.
For many homeowners, such an amount accounts for the vast majority of their budget. Cabinets are closely followed by new kitchen appliances, which cost an average of about $8,200. Coming in at the third position are countertops, with an average price of $6,000.
There are also additional costs that can have a significant effect on the overall kitchen remodeling cost. Electrical and plumbing works are the best examples of such factors.
If you do not handle them wisely, they can cost you a tremendous amount of money. That, in turn, will leave you struggling to accommodate the rest of your project’s expenses. You also need to be aware of the fact that your city and kitchen’s size will have an impact on these costs as well.
How to Save on Kitchen Remodel Costs
We now know what the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel is. Let us now take a look at the ways of cutting back costs while renovating your kitchen. With a little effort and wisdom, you can save money even on huge expenses like the cabinetry and countertops.
Prepare Your Budget
Kitchen renovations generally tend to go over budget rather than under. Thus, you need to carefully come up with a realistic budget plan before ordering any materials.
You also need to have a good idea about how much every item will cost you. If anything does not fit into your budget, you need to address it before it’s too late. Make sure you include only the most important and irreplaceable elements in your list.
Avoid Moving Appliances
For moving anything that attaches to a water or gas line, you will have to pay for professional assistance. For example, you will have to pay a plumber or electrician for redirecting those lines. You can avoid these extensive costs by leaving alone such items, such as the sink or appliances, unless absolutely essential.
Do Not Replace Cabinets
As discussed above, cabinets usually account for the biggest part of a kitchen remodel. That is also because they are expected to last longer than appliances like the oven and refrigerator.
You should try checking whether your existing cabinetry is repairable or not. If the cabinet doors are working properly, and there are no signs of mold or mildew, then you may not have to for a replacement after all. You can renovate them for a much lesser cost by changing hardware and repainting them.
Do Your Research
A kitchen remodel is an extensive process. Hence, you should take your time with it. Start by looking at references online and figuring out what you need with your remodeling process. Once you have a clear idea in mind, you are unlikely to make any mistakes.
More often than not, people rethink their decisions after the renovation has begun. If you are aware of what your needs are, what your budget is, and how to go about it, you can save money and time by being efficient.
Do Some DIY
One of the best ways to save some money during a kitchen remodel is to go the DIY route. Of course, you cannot do everything by yourself. While most of the tasks should be reserved for professionals, there are several tasks that you can do to cut down on costs.
For instance, you can paint your kitchen by yourself. You can also carry out the demolition work by yourself to cut down on the labor costs. Similarly, you can do smaller tasks all around the kitchen and by doing so, save a significant amount of money.
While you are planning the DIY tasks, you should also consult a designer or a professional to get some advice and help.