Budgeting is one of the hardest things to do even for small projects. There is always a surprise element that can upset the best laid plans. Thus, when you realize that your kitchen needs an upgrade, the first thing you do is ask yourself: “How much is it going to cost me?”
One thing is clear – even for a small kitchen, you should be prepared to shell out a few thousands of dollars for a full remodel. This is why you should plan this project ahead of time and decide what you really need and afford.
To make things clear, this article will not give you clear cut numbers, because it is impossible to do it. Depending on price fluctuations, the local market in your area and your own approach to this project (kitchen designer, contractor, DIY work) the numbers can vary wildly. However, we will give you some helpful advice on how to structure your kitchen remodel budget.
Where Will Your Money Go?
When you start planning your kitchen remodel budget, the first thing you need to understand is how much each item/activity will cost you. Kitchen remodel specialists agree that this is a fairly accurate budget structure:
- 29% – cabinets and hardware
- 17% – installation work
- 14% – appliances
- 10% – countertops
- 7% – flooring
- 5% – lighting
- 5% – walls and ceiling
- 4% each: doors and windows, design, plumbing
- 1% – others.
This structure of costs will help you plan and phase your kitchen remodel. It will also give you an idea if you are getting a fair quote for various works from suppliers. Check out local kitchen and bathroom cabinets Denver retailers sell, to get the best prices on cabinetry.
Here are a few helpful tips to keep your budget under control:
- Don’t Buy Top of the Line of Everything
There are some items for which you should put quality first, such as the cabinets, the cooking stove, and the fridge. But do you actually need the most expensive range of kitchen chairs with leather seats and made of cherry wood? Probably not. You can do just as fine with a basic line from the local home improvement store.
- Start with the Critical Remodel Work
Do not despair if you cannot come up with the entire amount for a full kitchen remodel from the beginning. Start with the most important items/works: cabinets, appliances, flooring, and paintwork.
Leave the non-critical pieces of furniture and decorations for a later date, when you are able to save more money. What you need, first of all, is a functional kitchen where you can store and cook food.
- Always Have an Emergency Fund Ready
You probably did some home improvement works before and know that you can never rely on a fixed budget. Something always comes up – the contractors need to adjust a stock piece of furniture to fit a corner, the work team needs an extra bucket of paint for the walls, a window pane breaks and needs to be replaced, etc.
In conclusion, you should spend as much as you afford on a kitchen remodel. Do not get your family in debt over this project and phase works and purchases according to your needs and available funds.
