Budget Tips for a DIY Kitchen Renovation

For many people, the kitchen is the heart of their home. Perhaps that’s why when I am preparing a family dinner for Thanksgiving or Christmas, everyone seems to congregate in our kitchen! Of course, that is where the food is being prepared so hungry family members know that it’s the best place to hang out. Because we spend so much time in our kitchens, it’s important that we feel comfortable in them…so they not only need to look great but be functional as well. If you are considering renovating your kitchen, read these budget tips for a kitchen remodel.

Make a Detailed Plan

Before you do anything, take time to properly plan your new kitchen. If you purchase your new appliances from a store such as Home Depot, they will help you prepare a design for free or a nominal fee. If you can use your existing kitchen configuration, you will save a lot of money because plumbing and electrical systems will not have to be relocated.

Get the Right Tools

If you will be doing some of the renovation work yourself, you need to ensure that you have the right tools on hand to avoid delays. As a rule of thumb, you’ll need screwdrivers, power drills, tile cutters, saws, hammers, sanders, measuring tape and super glue. The last one may sound strange, but all homes should have at least one such product as it has a wide range of uses including securing wood pieces and keeping shower items in place.

Appliances

Appliances are one of the largest investments you will make in a kitchen. Make sure that you choose them first so that they will fit beside your cupboards. Consider buying appliances that have been opened but never used from Kijiji or eBay to save money. Keep in mind that you will have to relocate your appliances when you reinstall your floor so try and relocate them to the laundry or family room where they can be used, otherwise, you may find yourself spending a lot of extra money in restaurants. If you are doing your kitchen renovation in the summer, you can make use of your barbecue for meals.

Cabinets

One of the most important budget tips for a kitchen remodel is to consider whether you can sand and repaint your existing cabinets to create a new look. New cabinets can cost upwards of $15,000 so they will quickly eat up your kitchen remodel budget. If you do decide that you need to order new cabinets, they can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks to arrive so you want to order them before you begin work. Be sure to have new cabinets installed professionally as even the slightest error can affect the installation of countertops and backsplash. For new cabinets, ensure there is a gap between the top of the cabinet and the ceiling to give the illusion of space.

Countertops

Countertops are one item you don’t want to skimp on as they are often the showpiece of your kitchen and contribute to the kitchen’s overall look. Opt for materials such as quartz or natural stone if you can afford them since these counter materials are becoming the industry standard that homebuyers expect when looking for a new home. Your investment in quart or natural stone will pay off in terms of the resale value of your home.

Backsplash

A gorgeous subway tile can really make your kitchen look luxurious, but don’t think you have to start from scratch. You can use your existing backsplash as a wallboard to apply your new backsplash and save money in the process.

Flooring

If you are planning to replace the flooring in your kitchen, look to see if the existing flooring extends underneath the cabinets. New flooring made from wood or tile will increase your floor’s height and could move your cabinets up higher. If you want to save money, vinyl flooring is much more affordable, plus it will not increase your floor’s height. You can purchase luxury vinyl plank flooring that looks like wood and you’ll spend only about $1,000.

Kitchen Fixtures

If you are shopping for new kitchen light fixtures, chairs or cabinet and drawer pulls, make sure you have a look at Ikea or even on Etsy where you’ll find designer imitation pieces for less.

Colour Scheme

When it comes to kitchen colour schemes, kitchens work better when they are bright and well lit, which is why white kitchens are so popular these days. Lightly-coloured kitchens are more welcoming and help you see what you’re doing. If your kitchen has good natural light, you could opt for a darker colour scheme. If, however, your kitchen is on the smaller side and has only one light source, it is a good idea to choose a lighter colour scheme. Did you know that the colours orange and red stimulate appetite?

Using some of the above budget tips for a kitchen remodel, you can create a gorgeous DIY kitchen without spending so much money.

You might be interested in reading, “Make Your Home Eco-Friendly with These Renovations“.