The kitchen is the number one space that people want to remodel. And it’s no wonder; the kitchen is the heart of a home. It’s where you prepare your meals and where your friends and family like to gather. An updated kitchen with a good layout and function can boost the appeal and value of your home when it comes time to sell. But remodeling a kitchen can be an expensive proposition. So what can you expect for your kitchen remodel budget?
We have decades of experience remodeling kitchens. Here’s the number one thing that we recommend – set realistic expectations for your budget.
But how can you set realistic expectations if you’re not sure how far your budget will go? Here are some guidelines to help you.
Basically, there three types of kitchen remodels; going from least to most expensive they are: cosmetic, pull-and-replace, and custom. Each of these remodel types has a budget range, an average timeline for completion, and a list of things that you can expect to be done. Though you may hope for a custom remodel for the price of a cosmetic or a pull-and-replace one, it is not reasonable to expect a contractor to deliver that. It’s important to understand the different types of remodel, and to adjust your expectations to fit within the budget you set. Each type of remodel can make a big improvement to your home when it’s done right and gives you what you want.
Cosmetic Remodel
On the low-end of the budget spectrum is the cosmetic remodel. Think of it as a makeover for your kitchen. If you have a good layout and just need a few updates to refresh the space, then a cosmetic remodel may be right for you and can make a positive impact.
The timeline for a cosmetic kitchen remodel is typically 3-6 weeks and can cost from $10,000 to $30,000* when you hire professionals to do the work.
A cosmetic remodel can include:
- Replacing countertops
- Changing the sink and sink fixtures
- Painting or re-facing cabinets
- Installing a new backsplash
- Adding decorative lighting
- Adding an island
It typically does not include:
- Replacing cabinets
- Making structural changes (changing walls or the layout)
- Installing new wood or tile flooring
- Electrical work (installing service lines, switches or ceiling lights)
- New appliances
Pull-and-Replace Remodel
Basically, the pull-an-replace remodel involves removing cabinets, countertops and appliances and replacing them with new ones. A pull-an-replace does not include reconfiguring the space; new items are being installed in the same location as existing ones. When doing this type of remodel you might also consider replacing flooring, repainting, and getting new plumbing fixtures.
This type of kitchen remodel can have a relatively short completion time. Cabinets take anywhere from 4-8 weeks to be ordered and delivered. Once the cabinets are on hand, the project can take 5-8 weeks to complete, depending on the size of the space. Cost for a mid-range remodel of this type can cost $35,000 to $65,000.
A pull-an-replace remodel can include:
- Replacing cabinets and countertops
- New sink and faucet
- Repainting walls
- Installing a new backsplash
- Installing new appliances
- Replacing flooring
- Updating lighting
- Installing a small island
- Replacing a window
It typically does not include:
- Removing walls or changing the layout
- Relocating appliances
Custom Remodel
A custom kitchen remodel is more involved, it includes reconfiguring the space to improve function and flow, perhaps making the kitchen larger or opening it up to other rooms. A custom remodel can involve removing walls, raising ceilings, relocating appliances, installing new cabinetry, countertops and backsplash, new appliances, adding new or refinishing existing flooring, added electrical and lighting, replacing or adding windows, and adding or reconfiguring an island.
The timeline for a custom remodel depends on the size of the space and the age of the home, but typically will take 3-5 months to complete. To keep the costs and timeframe in-line with your budget it is essential to work with a designer who is familiar with construction costs, kitchen cabinet lines and other materials. A good designer will foresee any problems and have options to address them early in the project. A good designer will seek an engineering consultation to ensure that what you want to do is practical and achievable for the budget.
Cost for custom remodels can range widely, depending on the size of the space affected, the age of the home, and the types of materials chosen. Generally, cost for a custom remodel will start at around $60,000 for a smaller kitchen, $85,000 for a mid-sized kitchen and $100,000 for a large kitchen. A good designer will guide you to making choices of materials and design changes that will keep you within your budget.
Keeping to Your Budget
With any remodel, the more decisions you make up front regarding the changes you want, materials and products you want, and knowing where you can compromise, the better the contractor can estimate the project schedule and costs. Changes that are made after the contract is signed, materials are ordered, or construction has begun are handled with change orders. Change orders are expected, but be aware that they can cause the project cost and timeline to creep upwards.
Where to Start?
Start by making a list of the things that you want to change and identify the type of remodel that the changes fall into. Call or make an appointment with a designer or a design/build firm to discuss your project, this can further help you to determine the types of changes you can expect for your budget range. These professionals want your project to be a success, no matter what the size, and they have lots of valuable expertise to help guide you.
*Note: Remodeling costs vary nationally from region to region. The costs noted in this article reflect typical costs in the Portland metro area.