How do I choose the best professional to remodel my kitchen?
When looking for a professional to remodel your kitchen, make sure you complete the following steps:
Verify their license and insurance: Your contractor may need a general contractor's license for major remodeling, while plumbing and electrical work require specialty licenses. Some areas also require a home improvement license for renovations. If you're removing walls or gutting the kitchen, you may need an engineering report to stay up to code. Whoever you hire, make sure they have the required licenses for your area. They should also have general liability and workers' compensation insurance to help cover accidents or damages.
Get several estimates: Ask for itemized quotes from multiple professionals to give you a general idea of how much a kitchen remodel costs and compare them to get the best rate.
Read their reviews: Look for reviews that consistently praise things like the professional's quality of work and communication skills, and indicate they stick to timelines. Complaints about delays, unexpected costs, and poor craftsmanship are red flags.
Look at their portfolios: Also review photos of similar projects they've completed. Look at the craftsmanship and quality of the countertops, cabinets, flooring, backsplashes, and other features they’ve added to kitchens.
Find out if they have warranties: Pros often guarantee their workmanship for a set period of time, and manufacturers usually provide warranties on materials. Before you start your kitchen remodel, ask for warranties details on both. And always read the fine print.
Ask important questions: For example, find out whether projects like yours typically involve unexpected costs, what permits the project requires (and who will handle them), and the estimated timeline.
For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page.
How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen?
The national average cost of a kitchen remodel ranges from around $28,696 to $90,397*. There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:
Kitchen size and project scope: Bigger kitchens or more complicated remodels usually cost more.
Materials: High-end options like marble countertops, hardwood floors, or custom cabinets typically cost more than basic materials like laminate countertops, ceramic tile floors, or ready-to-assemble cabinets.
Structural changes: If you move walls or shift plumbing or electrical connections, you can expect to pay more.
Permits and inspections: Some remodels need permits or inspections, which usually add extra costs.
You might be able to save money on your project with these tips:
Get multiple quotes: Shop around and compare quotes from different contractors.
Reuse or refinish materials: Instead of replacing cabinets, think about repainting or refacing them.
Do it yourself: Take on small tasks like painting or demolition to save money on labor.
*Data provided by Xactware. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
What are some ways I can save money on a kitchen remodel?
Here are a few ways you might be able to save money on a kitchen remodel or renovation:
Stick to your current layout: Moving plumbing or electrical can drive up costs. If you can work with your existing kitchen setup, you can often save on labor and materials.
Choose affordable materials: You don’t always need high-end finishes to get a great look. Consider budget-friendly options like laminate countertops or vinyl flooring that still look stylish but don't break the bank.
Do some work yourself: If you’re handy, consider taking on some tasks, like painting cabinets or demolition. Just make sure you’re comfortable and confident with the work to avoid potentially costly mistakes.
Shop around for appliances: You can often find good deals on gently used or discounted appliances that still perform well.
Source and repurpose used materials: From salvage yards to online marketplaces, see whether you can find second-hand materials to suit your renovation needs.
Look for off-cuts and discounted items: You might find premium materials for a bargain. Many suppliers or home improvement stores sell off-cuts or discontinued items at a fraction of the cost.
For more ideas on how to save money, check our guide: “Best kitchen remodel ideas and tips for tight budgets.”
What are the benefits of renovating or remodeling my kitchen?
Some of the biggest benefits of renovating or remodeling a kitchen include the following:
Boost home value: Remodeling your kitchen may increase your home’s resale value. It may recoup a good portion of the cost, making it a solid investment. However, you’ll need to do your research and choose kitchen features and designs that appeal to homeowners.
Better functionality: A well-designed remodel may improve your kitchen’s functionality by enhancing storage, workspace, and layout. It can help you better organize the space, making everyday tasks more efficient.
Improved organization: Custom storage solutions, like pull-out cabinets and built-in organizers, help keep your kitchen tidy and make it easier to find what you need, improving efficiency.
Potential energy savings: Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and better insulation may reduce utility bills. Energy-efficient appliances use less energy, which can help you save costs while benefiting the environment.
A fresh look: New finishes and modern design elements can transform your kitchen, creating a more inviting and aesthetically pleasing space that adds to your home’s overall appeal.
What can I expect during the kitchen remodeling process?
In most cases, a professional will take the following steps when remodeling a kitchen:
Planning and design: You'll either handle this step yourself or work with a professional contractor or designer. Choose the layout, materials, and finishes that fit your budget and style.
Permits and approvals: If you're making structural changes or doing plumbing or electrical work, your pro should be able to help you navigate the permit process. Usually, they know which permits you need and which regulations to follow to stay compliant.
Demo and prep work: Depending on the scope of the remodel, the contractor will likely remove old cabinets, countertops, and flooring. They may even open walls for new wiring or plumbing, if needed.
Plumbing, electrical, and structural updates: The pro will handle any necessary upgrades or connection relocations during this stage.
Installation: The pro will likely install cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances, bringing your new kitchen to life.
Finishing touches: Finally, they will add backsplash, trim, and paint to complete the project.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
Typically, it takes about three to six months for a professional to complete a kitchen remodel, but sometimes it may take as little as six to nine weeks. There are a few factors that may impact how long it takes. For example:
Kitchen size: A larger space requires more work and can stretch the timeline.
Project scope: Minor updates like painting or replacing countertops will often take less time than a partial remodel with new cabinets, flooring, or appliances. A full gut renovation with structural changes usually takes the longest to complete.
Team size: Generally, the more contractors working on the project, the faster the remodel goes. More hands on deck can help speed up the work and keep things moving smoothly.
Material availability: Your project could be delayed if materials are backordered, hard to find, or need to be shipped from far away — whether they’re custom, specialty, or even standard items.
Unexpected hurdles: Things like hidden water damage, outdated wiring, or structural issues can throw off your timeline.
Permits and inspections: If the project needs permits or inspections, factor in extra time.
Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.
Is it worth it to remodel a kitchen?
Remodeling or renovating your kitchen can be worth the time, effort and money — especially if you plan to sell your home. A kitchen remodel is among the most appealing types of remodeling projects for potential buyers, according to the National Association of Realtors. In fact, some realtors report that a kitchen remodel has helped close a sale. This type of remodeling is also valuable because it can build a stronger desire to be in your home.
Contact the best kitchen remodelers near you to get started on your project.
How do I hire a contractor for a kitchen remodel?
The secret to hiring the best contractor(s) for your kitchen remodel is to compare several professionals’ customer reviews, ratings, specialities, services and prices. You can do this by searching online for the best kitchen remodelers near you.
When you search online, you can quickly view important information about the contractors on their profiles. Read through the customer reviews, and look for profiles that feature before-and-after photos from the contractor, as well as their past clients. Inspect those photos closely to gauge the contractors’ craftsmanship.
You should also make sure the contractor is properly licensed and insured in your area. Some state governments regulate licensure for contractors, while some don’t. Check licensing requirements in your state.
Before you hire anyone, contact at least contractors to discuss the scope of your kitchen remodel. And request written estimates from each contractor.
What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel?
The average cost of a kitchen remodel is $12,961. However, you should always get a cost estimate from a general contractor or kitchen remodeler near you when planning your renovations.
The cost of upgrading your kitchen depends on a variety of factors. The first is whether you’re doing a small, medium or large remodel. Where you live also matters, with expensive cities correlating with more expensive kitchen renovation costs. The cost will also increase if you’re altering the footprint of your kitchen, changing the location of plumbing and fixtures and/or installing expensive materials like granite countertops.
To learn more about kitchen remodeling costs, read “How much does a kitchen remodel cost?”
How can I save money on my kitchen remodel?
To keep your kitchen remodel costs as low as possible, avoid making changes after construction has begun. This will reduce the amount of wasted time and material on the part of the contractor and help you avoid extra charges.
Double-check all measurements to make sure you order the right size appliances, cabinets and materials. Also, try to work within your existing kitchen’s footprint to avoid having to pay a plumber or electrician to completely redo your layout.
Research all of your options for flooring, tiles, countertops and appliances. Try to get an expert’s opinion before purchasing any material if you’re unsure about the quality.
Finally, get a few cost estimates from at least three contractors near you before you hire anyone to take on your project.