How To Renovate Your Kitchen On A Budget

If you’re thinking about updating your kitchen with a little renovation, there’s no time like the present to get started. Sprucing up your kitchen can completely transform your home. Moreover, if done right, it can open up and brighten your space, as well as increase your home’s value on the market.

However, as kitchen renovations are a costly household project, you’ll need to keep a close eye on more than just your design and layout. An average kitchen renovation can cost anywhere between $10,000 to $80,000. What determines your expenses, is your style choices and preparation before the actual remodeling. If you are well prepared and aware of your options, you’re more likely to be in control of your expenses. To help you ready yourself for your kitchen renovation and keep your spending on the lower end, Caitlin has explained a few steps on how to renovate your kitchen on a budget:

Determine your budget
When you are aware of your budget, you can determine what direction to go with. Your choices and the scale of your project also become more apparent as your budget expresses your spending capacity.

Think about wall paint
Once you’ve determined your budget, you’ll need to start thinking about the paint colour you’d like to see on the walls. The paint will actually be the first item that your contractor (or you) complete, so you’ll want to make sure you choose something that will go along with all of your other elements. If you’re working with a designer, they’ll likely create a design board for you, so you will be able to visualize all of your finishings together.

Look at all of your options
One of the best ways to save money is to look at all your options to see if there is a way to save money on certain elements. For example, if you already love your cabinet layout and style, but not the colour, consider having them painted. This will allow for more funds to be used elsewhere during your renovation project. If you don’t love the layout, consider some alternative cabinet options that won’t break the bank; IKEA and other large scale retailers carry cabinets that are made for DIY enthusiasts. These cabinets have come a long way and offer fantastic looks at a fraction of the price.

Pick your countertops according to your budget
Don’t worry is your budget is small, as you still have affordable options when it comes to countertops. Granite countertops will be one of your more expensive options; a great runner up is a quartz countertop. These are also a stone product, but due to their ‘man-made’ construction, they’re more predictable in their colour, and they are cheaper than granite. Another fantastic option is a laminate or butcher block counter. Both come in an array of colour options, and both of them present great atheistic qualities. These options will also be cheaper than granite and quartz.

Consider a double, under-mount sink
This option offers tons of space for meal prep and allows for quick clean-ups. But, if you’re looking for a more farmhouse look, consider a porcelain farmhouse sink. These beautiful sinks also come in stainless steel and copper options, which gives you a more modern look.

Get a backsplash as per your future goals
A beautiful backsplash is a key to tying your cabinets together with your countertops. It also allows for protection from kitchen splashes, whether it is from the sink or the stovetop. If you’re thinking about selling your home, be mindful of the backsplash you choose. Everyone has different tastes, but being too bold with your backsplash may scare away some of your potential buyers. Budget-friendly options include porcelain tiles and stick-on materials, while more expensive options can consist of marble or glass tiles.

On which parts of your kitchen renovation should you spend less?
The best place to save some money is with your cabinets and backsplash tiles. Making smart choices here can save you a great deal of money, which can be utilized for other parts of your renovation.

Which parts of your kitchen renovation will require more money?
If you plan to change your cabinets, do not go for the cheapest products based strictly on price, do your research. As mentioned before, just because IKEA is cheaper, does not mean it’s poor quality, it simply means you’ll have less ‘customization’ as you build your kitchen. In case you decide to get your cabinets from IKEA, ensure you work with a professional (whether it be a local Designer or an IKEA kitchen specialist), as you’ll need help to choose products ideal for your new layout. A professional will guide you to cabinets that look great but also fit your new kitchen and have all the moldings, nuts, and bolts that you’ll need. If you choose to go with a high-end cabinet, you’ll already be paying for someone to walk you through the design process and your order. Should you opt to paint your cabinets, ensure you choose the correct type of cabinet paint and do all of the prep work required before applying the paint!

Bottom line
To avoid going over budget, it’s vital that you are aware of what you’re getting into. The next step is to be prepared ahead of time and have all the materials you need ready to start your project as per schedule. After your walls are painted, you’ll go right into cabinetry installations, and your sub-trades (plumbers, electricians, gas fitters, etc.) will need direction from you right away. They all charge an hourly fee, so ensuring you’re prepared can save you money when it comes to availing of their services.

To learn all about the process or how to spruce your home up if you’re looking to sell,  please click here or get in touch with me here. 

Happy renovating!

Cait