Kitchen Remodel Cost: Where to Save and Where to Splurge
The Tennessee Magazine describes the kitchen as the heart of the home. It is the epicenter of domestic activity, a place for cooking, eating, and entertaining. But today’s kitchen has become an all-inclusive space, not just a place for cooking, says Elle H-Millard, industry relations manager for the National Kitchen and Bath Association. It has become an entertainment zone as well as a place for homework and office work. As we see the kitchen as a central part of every home, wanting to update it seems natural for every homeowner. Plus, kitchen updates can provide a great return on investment. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), an upgraded kitchen is of top priority for potential homebuyers. A kitchen remodel offers homeowners the opportunity to customize the space to their lifestyle while providing a great return on investment. While there are a lot of trendy options for a kitchen upgrade, smart homeowners need to make informed decisions on where to save or splurge every dollar in a kitchen remodel. Let us explore more of the kitchen remodel cost and the factors affecting it.
Average Kitchen Remodel Costs
1. Minor Kitchen Remodel
In Remodeling’s 2024 Cost vs Value Report for Tennessee, a midrange kitchen remodel costing $27,492 has a resale value of $26,406. The return on investment for a minor kitchen remodel can be as high as 96.1%. A minor kitchen remodel may include the following:
Replacement of cabinet panels and hardware
Replacement of existing countertops with laminated countertops
Replacement of plumbing fixtures
Upgrades to energy-efficient appliances
Replacement of lighting fixtures
Installation of backsplash
Laying of new vinyl flooring
Minor painting works
A minor kitchen remodel can be budget-friendly yet elevate your home’s resale value. When homeowners have limited budget and time, a minor kitchen remodel can be your best option for a fresh home update.
2. Major Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen upgrades that cost above $60,000 on average can be considered a major kitchen remodel. In Remodeling’s 2024 Cost vs Value Report for Tennessee, a midrange kitchen remodel costing $79,982 has a resale value of $39,587. Unlike a minor kitchen remodel, a major kitchen remodel offers a 49.5% return on investment. A major kitchen remodel may include the following:
Customized Storage and Cabinetry
Addition of kitchen island counter
Custom Lighting
Upgraded ventilation system
Installation of new flooring
Fresh paint finishes
Customized ceiling
When you want a total kitchen transformation, a major kitchen remodel elevates your kitchen’s aesthetic value and functionality.
You need to consider many factors when deciding whether to have a minor or major remodel for your kitchen, including the current state of the kitchen, your budget, your desired look, and the overall purpose of the project. A kitchen remodel, whether minor or major, is not a small decision, and is not one you should take lightly.
Fig. 1. A luxurious kitchen remotely by Modern Handymen & remodel in Brentwood, Tennessee
Cost comparison: Cabinets, Countertops, Flooring, and Appliances
1. Cabinets
Remodeling kitchen cabinets can dramatically change the look and functionality of your kitchen. Cost differs from small refreshing upgrades to transforming your kitchen cabinetry into a completely customized look. Here are the average costs of your cabinet upgrades:
a. Refinish or stain cabinets- $1,500 – $4,500
b. Repainting cabinets- $2,000 – $6,500
c. Refacing cabinets- $5,000 – $13,000
d. Replacing cabinet doors- $2,200 – $6,600
e. Replacing cabinet hardware (handles, hinges, etc.)- $60 – $3,600
f. Customized cabinets- $12,000 – $36,000+
2. Countertops
The cost of replacing a countertop varies significantly depending on the material used. Laminated countertops are the most affordable, while gemstone countertops are the most expensive type. Explore the following estimated cost per square foot of countertop per material:
a. Laminate (Formica)- $20 – $80
b. Tiles- $30 – $100
c. Natural stone (marble, granite, limestone, etc.)- $50 – $150
d. Engineered/Solid surface (porcelain, epoxy, quartz, etc.)- $50 – $150
e. Wood (bamboo, butcher block, maple, etc.)- $50 – $150
f. Metal (stainless steel, copper, etc.)- $80 – $200
Fig. 2. A mobile kitchen remodel with stainless countertops by Modern Handymen & Remodel in Franklin, Tennessee
g. Gemstone (Amethyst, Agate, Onyx, etc.)- $50 – $300+
h. Concrete- $50 to $150
3. Flooring
Kitchen flooring is considered one of the most abused parts of every home due to heavy foot traffic, spilled boiling or harsh liquids, falling pans, and sharp utensils. It is essential to restore kitchen flooring after a certain amount of time through a kitchen remodel. The extent of restoration is a significant factor to consider in costing, whether you opt to refinish (sanding, staining, or varnishing) or complete subfloor replacement. Like countertops, the cost for replacing kitchen flooring also varies depending on the materials used. Here are the average costs per square foot of some common flooring materials for your kitchen:
a. Engineered wood- 6 - $10
b. Ceramic floor tiles- $2 - $9
Fig. 3. A kitchen remodel with subfloor repairs in Nashville, Tennessee by Modern Handymen & Remodel
c. Laminate- $1 - $13
d. Vinyl tiles- $1 - $9
e. Cork- $2.50 - $11
f. Concrete- $3.75 - $15
g. Epoxy- $3 - $12
4. Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances have a higher initial purchase cost but offer long-term cost savings due to reduced energy consumption and utility bills. The cost of new kitchen appliances depends on the quality and size. An average package price for a fridge, microwave, range, and dishwasher can range from $2,100 to $5,400. The brand of the appliances you choose to purchase and install also plays a major factor in the total remodel cost of your kitchen. You can check different brands’ appliance brochures for the updated unit cost to compare each brand’s pros and cons before deciding what to purchase.
When to Invest in High-Quality Materials vs. Budget Options
Planning your kitchen remodel involves careful consideration of your budget. After setting a realistic budget for your kitchen remodel, the next step is to seek cost-saving strategies that can help maximize your return on investment. High-quality materials are often pricey. But if this fits your budget and is within your price range, it’s the best choice. However, if you have a limited budget for materials, consider a smart option by using less expensive alternatives to your favorite high-end materials. For instance, if you love the look of granite countertops but they’re out of your price range, a laminate that mimics the look of granite will do the trick. Laminated materials cost less than an authentic natural stone. Hiring an expert kitchen remodeler like Modern Handymen & Remodel will help you find the balance between your needs and your budget as they lay out innovative and affordable options for homeowners for their kitchen remodels.
How Labor and Location Affect Remodel Cost
Generally, labor cost is 20% to 40% of the total remodeling cost. However, labor costs vary significantly depending on the project’s location. Remodeling services in metropolitan areas tend to cost more than in rural locations. In Tennessee, kitchen remodeling can cost $15 to $250 per square foot. By understanding the factors affecting your kitchen remodel cost, choosing the right local partner in kitchen remodeling can save you time and money. By hiring a trusted local contractor in Tennessee for kitchen remodeling, such as Modern Handymen & Remodel, you are putting your kitchen upgrades in expert hands.
Hiring expert professionals for your kitchen remodeling project, such as Modern Handymen & Remodel, you can be confident that you will not be surprised by hidden costs that homeowners often overlook. A team of expert professionals will inspect your kitchen to ensure that no underlying problems, such as structural issues, plumbing, or electrical issues, can hinder or delay your kitchen remodel’s success. Modern Handymen & Remodel offers transparency in your kitchen remodel project so you can make informed and timely decisions on where to save and where to splurge. Book a consultation with Modern Handymen & Remodel at 615-200-8071. Cook in style—start your kitchen remodel now!
