What Increases My Kitchen Remodel Cost?

WHAT INCREASES THE COST OF A KITCHEN REMODEL?

There are many, many elements that go into the total cost of a kitchen remodel. While every inch of your kitchen adds a piece to the “remodeling pie”, there are a few common factors that will tend to elevate the total cost of your kitchen remodel. As you build your remodeling budget, keep these factors in mind and establish the top priorities for your new kitchen, especially if you are planning a custom kitchen remodel.

1. SIZE AND SCOPE:

It’s important to understand that every kitchen remodel is unique and no two spaces are the same – especially from a cost standpoint. Comparing kitchen sizes and scope (the action plan and the material needed to complete your remodel) can be challenging and may be easier with the help of a qualified remodeling expert. Sure, size is one part of the equation, but it is crucial to take scope into consideration if you’re attempting to compare your kitchen with someone else’s. Learn about the three main types of kitchen remodels here. We find that kitchen updates often bleed into other rooms of the home, and your project total can be largely impacted by how much you change in the surrounding rooms to match your kitchen.

2. CABINETRY SELECTIONS:

Cabinetry comes in several quality levels and with nearly endless options for style and finish. Custom storage solutions within cabinetry are in high demand, and it does cost more to include custom features. From builder-grade to semi-custom and custom cabinetry, this important element of your kitchen project may take up a large portion of your kitchen remodel investment. Custom storage solutions within cabinetry are in high demand, and it does cost more to include these features. Most design companies partner with an array of cabinet manufacturers who offer endless style and storage options to suit your exact needs, but those extra features can definitely drive your overall investment up. Learn more about semi-custom cabinetry here.

3. STRUCTURAL/LAYOUT CHANGES:

Changing the layout of your kitchen will definitely add to the total cost of your remodel. Tearing out a wall, whether structural or not, will add to your total project cost. Changing cabinet layouts or moving walls tends to have a domino-like effect requiring changes to other areas such as flooring, millwork, mechanicals, and finishes. Load-bearing walls are more labor-intensive, often requiring engineering and added care to ensure your home’s structure is unaffected by the wall removal. All of this adds to the total cost of your project. 

4. SKILLED LABOR REQUIRED:

The more complex your project is, the more skilled labor is required. For example, moving your appliances (like your stove) or sink requires more extensive electrical and plumbing, which typically is required to be completed by a licensed expert. The complexity of cabinetry details and millwork such as crown moldings and wainscoting may require the skills of a more talented carpenter team.

5. APPLIANCE SELECTIONS:

Appliances are like cars. There are literally hundreds of makes and models to choose from. Depending on how important cooking is to you often determines the desire for upgraded appliances that can take a full kitchen appliance package easily from the $10,000 basics to $100,000+ in seconds! Most kitchen appliance packages fall somewhere in between that range but you get the idea.

6. TILE & FLOOR SELECTION:

The choice of your backsplash and flooring, along with how much is needed and how many rooms you are updating to match your new kitchen, can greatly increase the cost of your remodel, especially if you select a specialty tile or luxury vinyl tile.