I ask most people I meet if they like their kitchen.
The kitchen is, after all, where you’ll spend time cooking your meals, where your kids will run to grab an after school snack and where you’ll get that much-needed coffee boost in the morning. We spend a lot of time in our kitchens, so we might as well enjoy that time.
That’s hard if you don’t like your kitchen or if it doesn’t fit your needs very well. If that’s the situation you’re in, it’s time to think about a kitchen remodel. Not only will you enjoy spending more time in your kitchen, but a remodel will also increase the value of your home.
Of course, a kitchen remodel is an investment, and a lot of people worry that it’s too expensive. Luckily, there are a lot of ways that you can cut costs and save money on a remodeling project. At Ray Arnold Masonry & General Contracting, we’ve worked on hundreds of renovations and have put together this list of ways you can save money on your kitchen remodel.
Maintain the Same Layout
If the size of your kitchen isn’t an issue, keeping the same layout can help cut down on expenses. This reduces or eliminates the need to run new gas lines, electrical wiring or plumbing. You also won’t have to deal with removing walls. Unless you absolutely must move your refrigerator, oven, and sink, leave them where they currently are and you’ve already cut costs.
Avoid Removing Walls
Opening up space between kitchens and other rooms, like a dining room or family room, has become pretty popular. Unfortunately, removing walls requires careful consideration. Is the wall load-bearing? Does it have wiring or plumbing in it? Will the ceiling and floor need to be redone as well in these areas?
All of these questions — and their answers — can add up to additional costs. If you have your heart set on opening up your kitchen, consider opting for a cutout. It will create the feeling of an open kitchen, provide extra counter space, and will require less rerouting of wiring and plumbing. All of that adds up to a nicer kitchen that costs less.
Be Flexible With Countertop Materials
Granite is still one of the most popular countertop materials, but it’s also pricey. Luckily, there are a lot of alternatives on the market today that look just as nice. From concrete and tile, to butcher block and recycled material, you can often find less expensive countertops that will still look incredible.
If you have your heart set on a granite countertop, consider using two materials in your kitchen. For example, you could have the granite on an island, while using a less expensive material for the other counter space. This would provide a great compromise that would give you the look you want at a lower cost.
Consider Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets
Many homeowners have a specific idea of what cabinets they want in their kitchen and choose to have them custom-made. This will easily make the cabinetry the most expensive part of their kitchen remodel!
Ready-to-assemble cabinets will typically cost half as much, and with so many varieties available, there may be a style perfect for your kitchen. Simply select an existing design that you like, and they will be fabricated for your home. Though more limited in options, materials, and sizing than having cabinets custom-made, most homeowners can find a design they love.
To save even more money, you can also consider in-stock cabinets. These are built-in standard sizes and shapes, so they may not fit your kitchen perfectly. However, if they do fit and you find a style that you like, these cabinets will provide the most affordable option.
Get the Kitchen of Your Dreams for Less
Everyone should love spending time in their kitchen, and a kitchen remodel can help make that a reality. These tips can help you figure out how you can save, and what you can splurge on. Most importantly, talk to a qualified professional to help you make a plan based on your needs and budget. The experts at Ray Arnold Masonry & General Contracting would love to help you transform your kitchen — give us a call at 440-834-8252 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule an estimate today.