Factors That Influence the Price of a Kitchen Remodel
How much you can expect to pay depends on your vision. For example, brightening up your space with a fresh coat of paint and new butcher block countertops will cost less than changing the entire configuration of your kitchen.
Your budget will also be influenced by other factors, like whether you opt for a budget-friendly vinyl plank flooring or a more elaborate mosaic tile. Or, whether you are remodeling a small galley or an expansive eat-in kitchen. Read on for the specifics.
MATERIALS USED
The materials you choose will have a substantial impact on your budget. If you opt for stainless steel countertops – a great choice for homeowners who crave the efficiency of a chef’s kitchen – you can expect to pay between $80 to $225 per square foot. Comparatively, laminate countertops cost just $20 per square foot and come in a variety of colors to suit your style.
If you are working on a tighter budget, your general contractor can help you choose materials that are both affordable and stylish. For example, marble flooring costs about $15 per square foot. However, manufacturers now create vinyl flooring that looks convincingly like marble for a fraction of the price.
LOCATION
For better or for worse, your zip code will affect how much money you spend on a kitchen remodel. Typically, the closer you are to a larger city, the higher the price tag. In New York City, for instance, the average kitchen remodel runs between $27,000 and $45,000. But in rural Minnesota, homeowners pay significantly less – an average of $16,500.
At Portico, our licensed and vetted general contractors serve the greater Charlotte metro area, which encompasses Charlotte, Lake Norman, Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Huntersville, Mooresville, and Davidson. Unlike other general contractors, we strive to offer consistent pricing across our service area.
KITCHEN SIZE
It only makes sense that remodeling a larger, more spacious kitchen costs more than renovating a tiny one. On average, most homeowners pay $145 per square foot for a kitchen remodel.
Depending on the size of your kitchen, you can expect to pay:
- $10,150 for a smaller kitchen (70 square feet)
- $14,500 to $21,750 for a medium-sized kitchen (100 to 150 square feet)
- $29,000 or more for a large kitchen (200+ square feet)
AGE OF HOUSE
As a general rule, older houses require a little more TLC. Oftentimes, when general contractors begin renovating the kitchen of an old home, they find structural damage or electrical issues that must be addressed before the project can move forward.
With that being said, you should always set aside anywhere from 15 to 20% of the budget for unexpected problems.
Though spending money on unforeseen issues can be disheartening, addressing the termites or water damage in your 1920s bungalow protects your investment and ensures that your kitchen will be around for decades to come.
How Does Your Kitchen Renovation Budget Get Spent?
Certain kitchen upgrades cost more than others. If, for example, your budget is $25,000, replacing aged cabinets will eat up nearly a third of that money. Meanwhile, new flooring will cost about $1,750, or just 7% of your budget.
Below, we offer approximations of how much of your budget you can expect to allocate to different upgrades. However, a general contractor can offer more precise estimates based on the vision you have for your new space.
COST OF KITCHEN CABINETS
You can expect to allocate about 29% of your kitchen renovation budget to new cabinets and hardware. But how much money you pay for new cabinets depends on your needs and aesthetic. Many hardware stores offer stylish, budget-friendly cabinets options. However, if you hope to achieve a more unique look, you might opt for customized cabinets.
COST OF KITCHEN APPLIANCES
Appliances will eat up about 14% of your kitchen remodel budget. However, your contractor can find relatively inexpensive fridges, dishwashers, and ovens at wholesale. They can also help you decide between freestanding appliances and built-in, panel-ready appliances.
COST OF KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS
Countertops can transform the mood of your kitchen while only consuming just 10% of your renovation budget. Depending on your vision, you might opt for inexpensive laminate countertops. Nowadays, these countertops come in all sorts of colors and patterns. Plus, they are scratch-resistant, heat-resistant, and easy to clean.
If you prefer a more modern look, you might choose higher-dollar concrete or marble countertops. Though more expensive, these materials are very durable and add an unexpected pop of style.
COST OF KITCHEN FLOORING
Do you want to give your kitchen a facelift without breaking the bank? Replace the flooring. This low-cost upgrade typically accounts for just 7% of a kitchen renovation budget.
Again, the flooring you choose all depends on your aesthetic. For a timeless look, choose engineered hardwood. Not only is this flooring option relatively inexpensive, but it’s also super durable and water-resistant. For a rustic look, choose a stone tile such as terracotta.
COST OF KITCHEN LIGHTING
A stunning light fixture or recessed lighting can add much-needed brightness to a prep space. Expect to spend about 5% of your renovation budget on lighting.
COST OF KITCHEN PLUMBING
You should allocate about 4% of your budget to plumbing. As a general rule, replacing a leaky kitchen faucet with something more practical will cost less than installing a prep sink or pot filler. However, these small additions can make all the difference, transforming your galley into a high-brow chef’s kitchen.
COST OF KITCHEN WINDOWS
Do you want to brighten up your cooking space? Add a window or two. Generally, installing new windows will demand about 4% of your renovation budget.
Affordable Kitchen Remodels From Portico
When you work with a reputable general contractor like Team Portico, you can transform your small, cramped kitchen into a truly functional space. But Portico does more than renovate kitchens. We also stick to clients’ budgets, helping them choose affordable materials and upgrades that suit their needs.
Interested in learning more? Contact the experts at Portico today for a free kitchen remodel estimate.