Your kitchen layout will likely remain the same. Plumbing and gas lines should also be located in the same places. If you want to change the appearance of your kitchen, however, plumbing and gas lines may be more expensive than elsewhere. You can save money by buying new faucets. You can brighten up your kitchen with new faucets for very little money. Be sure to allocate about 4 percent of your budget for your new sink and faucets. If you plan to reroute major pipes, this will increase the cost of your project.
No matter what type of kitchen remodel you choose, the cost of each project will vary depending on where you live. West Coast kitchen renovations are more expensive than those in smaller cities. It’s a good idea, before you make any final decisions, to get multiple estimates if you’re planning to renovate your kitchen. Negotiate labor costs and respect your contractor’s skills.
While labor costs are the biggest portion of the total price, you can also try to save money by refacing your existing cabinets. Here are some tips and guidelines for refacing your current cabinets. Old asbestos can pose a serious health risk and should be removed before you remodel. The cost of a kitchen remodel depends on the region and zip code of your home. The National Kitchen and Bath Association estimates that labor costs range from 20 to 35 percent of your total budget.
After you have made these considerations, you should begin comparing prices. You may want to hire several contractors so you can be sure you’re getting the best deal. Once you’ve narrowed down the list, the contractor should start the work. Often, remodeling work will take three to eight weeks. The dust from the materials can cause lung damage and you cannot live in the house while it is being renovated.
Once you’ve decided on a budget, you’ll need to decide what materials and labor you want to add. Although labor and materials are relatively inexpensive, appliances and materials can be very expensive. If you are working on a budget for the remodel, you should keep the remaining 15 to 20 percent of the money for unexpected repairs and replacements. If you’re working on a larger budget, you might want to stick with the original layout of your kitchen. By sticking to the original layout, you’ll lower the costs of structural work, plumbing and electrical work, and other costs.
The cost of a kitchen remodeling project will depend on where you live. Typically, the West Coast has the highest average costs, while lower-cost regions have lower costs. Consider the resale price of your home if you are moving. If you are planning to sell your house, you should also consider the ROI of your kitchen. If you want a newer kitchen, you should have a bigger budget than you currently have.