A kitchen remodeling project can add considerable value to a home. But before you get started, it’s important to consider several questions that will determine the scope of the remodel and the trades needed.
The first question is whether you’re updating an existing space or planning a complete kitchen “gut.” Gutting the room means stripping it down to its studs and subfloors. This kind of renovation requires professional design and architectural services, permitting and licensed St. Petersburg general contractor to ensure the work is done safely and to code.
Next, decide on the overall look you want for your kitchen. Do you want to go for a traditional Italian style kitchen with ornate marble countertops, or do you prefer contemporary, sleek designs? Whatever you decide, it’s important to choose the materials that are best suited to your taste and budget.
Wooden surfaces can add character and charm to your kitchen without breaking the bank. Granite and quartz are also popular options for countertops.
Cabinets are another major cost of a kitchen remodeling project. They typically consume about 20 percent of the budget, so it’s important to choose a design that will allow you to maximize your storage spaces and make the most of the available space.
If you’re not ready to spend thousands on new cabinets, try installing pull-out pan racks, baskets and trash containers for added flexibility and organization. Using these simple, low-cost options can significantly reduce the amount of money you spend on your remodel.
Appliances are another big expense, accounting for about 20 percent of a kitchen remodeling budget. If you plan to sell your home, appliances are a key feature buyers will be looking for. It’s important to choose appliances that are a mid-range price point to keep your costs down, and it’s even more important to avoid purchasing status-oriented models by names like Sub-Zero and Wolf, which tend to be expensive and hard to replace.
Finally, electrical needs to be addressed during a kitchen remodel. If you’re upgrading your appliances, it’s essential to have an electrician on board during the planning stages to ensure your wiring will accommodate the new features. Otherwise, if an electrician isn’t on board during the project, the cost of tearing out finished work to replace wiring can be significant.
Labor is the second largest expense of a kitchen remodeling project, and it averages out to about 20% of the total budget. This figure can be significantly reduced if you’re willing to do some of the work yourself.
Once you’ve decided on the scope of your kitchen remodeling project, it’s time to start planning your budget. Create a list of must-haves for your kitchen and prioritize them from the most important to the least.
If you’re not sure how much to spend on your remodeling project, take a few minutes to do some research on kitchen layouts and designs, cabinet styles and colors, appliances, flooring and building and plumbing materials. This will help you narrow down your shopping list and make decisions about the products and brands that you’ll purchase for your remodel.