Kitchen remodeling projects can cost anywhere between $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the thoroughness of the renovation, materials used, and cost of intermediate steps like updating plumbing, wiring, etc. If a $10,000+ project simply isn’t possible for you do accomplish in one go, approaching it piece by piece can make the project more doable. It also reduces downtime in your kitchen for daily activities like cooking and dish washing. By following these steps, you can walk through your remodeling project over the course of several months or years, as funds and time allow.
Plan it Out
Even though your plan is to renovate your kitchen in pieces, you still need to have a cohesive design plan in mind before any work is completed. Take time to develop an exceptional design based on your personal preferences. Get inspiration from design magazines, remodeling TV shows, and most importantly, your budget.
Once you know what you want, write it down step-by-step and determine where to source each material, who will be doing the installation, and how much it will cost. Making a plan ahead of time will that your new space has a unified feel to it when all of the work is done. It should also help prevent unpleasant surprises.
Floors First
Kitchens are typically remodeled from the ground up. Some experts tell you to install flooring under the cabinets, but others say that this is a bad idea and that flooring should only be installed to the base of the cabinets. After all, if you plan to replace cabinets again a few years from now, you may have to rip up flooring. You will, however, need to know the outline of your new cabinets before installing the new floors. If your cabinet configuration will not change, this is rather simple. However, if you plan to reconfigure your cabinets as part of your remodel, consider outlining the placement of the new cabinets on the ground before you get started with the floors.
Cabinets
Cabinets can be expensive, but quality cabinets made from hardwood (and cared for properly) can last for decades. Choose a timeless style with universal appeal for the best results.
You may consider ripping out your existing cabinets by yourself to save some money. However, installing new cabinets can be tricky, so it would be best to let professionals handle that for you. If you plan to replace the countertops as well, you can temporarily place the existing counters over the new cabinets until you are ready for the next step.
Update the Counters
Once your new cabinets have been installed, you can order the countertops. Like cabinets, countertops need to be custom ordered for your kitchen’s layout. A professional will need to measure your space to make sure the counters will fit correctly on the first try. Once the order is placed, it may take 1-3 weeks for the material to be delivered to your home. Sinks are typically replaced at the same time as countertops, so if you want to replace your sink, be sure to have it ready by the time installation day comes.
Renovate the Backsplash
For best results, remove the backsplash on your kitchen walls before the new cabinets and/or counters are installed. This is because chipping away at a tile backsplash can be messy and can even cause damage to your new features.
Adding a new backsplash is a relatively fast, easy, and affordable project. In fact, depending on the size of your project and the materials used, this may only cost a few hundred dollars. Many homeowners will even install their own backsplash to save money. If you’re looking for a fun weekend DIY project to contribute toward your kitchen renovation, this is the project for you.
Think About Lighting
With the major features in your kitchen now updated, you may be ready to start seeing results with the finishing touches. Lighting is the focal point of any renovation, and kitchens are no exception. Adding recessed lighting as well as under-the-counter lighting can help you to control ambiance and functionality in the space. New lighting fixtures also tend to be more energy-efficient, helping reduce both your energy bill and environmental footprint.
Update Your Fixtures
If you have not already done so, now is the time to update your sink and faucet as well as your cabinet and drawer knobs and pulls. These fixtures can easily be installed by a homeowner over the course of another weekend, and the cost is usually nominal, especially compared to other phases of your kitchen renovation. Nonetheless, these features can play a key role in the overall look and function of your finished space.
Paint the Walls
Some homeowners will repaint the walls very early in the renovation process, such as before the flooring and cabinets go in. This can protect your new features from paint spills. However, you may find that the walls get scratched or dinged through the various aspects of the renovation project, and touch-ups will be needed if you paint too soon. Hiring a professional painter can help you to safeguard your new materials while producing quality results. For lasting results, choose a paint hue that you won’t have to repaint if you ever need to sell the house.
Replace the Appliances
Finally, replace outdated appliances. This includes the stove and oven, microwave, fridge, dishwasher and even the garbage disposal. You may also wish to add a trash compactor and/or wine cooler for a touch of luxury.
The price range for this part of the project can vary substantially, depending on brands and how many appliances are being replaced. In some homes, the cost of appliances may equate to half or more of the total renovation cost, so you may wish to break this step down even further (purchasing one appliance at a time) if doing it all at once poses too much of a strain. Some appliance retailers like Slyman Bros appliances also offer closeout deals, price matching, and rebates to further reduce cost. Select energy efficient appliances to recoup some of your costs through lower utility bills.
