Kitchen Remodels On A Budget

Kitchen Remodeling Tips

The kitchen and bathroom are the most commonly remodeled areas of a home. Whether you are doing a total make over or simply making minor adjustments, updates to the kitchen can be the most effective and satisfying changes you can make to your home. While starting over with your kitchen is a very exciting idea, it’s not always the most cost effective. And since this segment focuses on Cost Effective Remodeling… we have a few suggestions for updating your kitchen while maintaining a budget.

General Tips

• When selecting colors for your new kitchen, stick to more neutral and natural color schemes. Staying away from popular color trends will help reduce the desire to remodel again in just a few years as fads change. • Maintain the location of the appliances when possible. Relocating appliances can lead to costly plumbing and electrical charges. • If at all possible, keep your appliances. If recycling your appliances is not an option, be sure to purchase energy efficient appliances to help bring down energy costs in your home. • Don’t forget to shop around for new faucets, sinks, and fixtures. You may be able to achieve a designer look with out the designer price tag.

Cabinets

• If your cabinets are still in good shape try painting them. This option can also save the added expense of replacing counter tops that would have to be replaced with new cabinets. • Replace just the doors to your cabinets. Keep in mind that it may be difficult to match stain on older cabinets. This is a great option for those interested in painting the cabinets. • Consider standard cabinetry rather than custom cabinetry or a combination of the two if possible. • If custom cabinets are your preference… watch your upgrades. Discuss with your cabinet designer the possibility of adding upgrades such as Lazy Susan’s or organizer units at a later date.

Counter Tops

• Laminate counter tops are less expensive than granite, tile or solid surfaces and can be easily dressed up by adding wood trim. However, it is important to consider durability when replacing counter tops. Laminate simply will not hold up as well as a solid surface product.

Flooring

• The right floor covering is very important in a kitchen. It needs to blend well with the flooring in neighboring rooms. Laminate flooring is among the most cost effective options. However, it is important to consider the longevity of the product you choose. Laminates will typically wear out long before tile or wood floors. • Check out what’s under your existing flooring. Many older homes have hard wood that can be refinished revealing beautiful flooring. If you have a concrete slab, consider staining the concrete.