What Determines the Cost of a Kitchen Remodel?

At We Do Kitchens 2, we understand that planning for and paying the cost of a kitchen remodel at your Milwaukee or Greenfield, WI home can feel overwhelming. This stressful topic can be especially burdensome when it comes to understanding the factors that influence the cost. From the size of your kitchen and the materials you choose to the complexity of the layout and the level of customization, every decision plays a role in shaping the overall budget. Upgrading appliances, choosing high-end finishes, or requiring additional plumbing or electrical work can also impact expenses. We believe you deserve clarity and confidence as you take on this exciting project. That’s why we’ve compiled essential information to help you better understand the costs associated with remodeling your kitchen.

Your Desired Kitchen Type

When planning a kitchen remodel, you can choose anything from a budget-friendly design to a luxurious, high-end space. If you prioritize cooking, you might prefer quality appliances or even professional-grade options. A compact kitchen could be ideal if you’re not big on cooking. For those who love hosting, a spacious kitchen with plenty of room for guests may be the way to go. These choices, from layout to appliances, will directly influence the overall cost of your kitchen renovation.

Size and Configuration Level

Keeping your kitchen’s current size and layout, with appliances, plumbing, lighting, and counters staying in place, is the simplest and most affordable option. This approach is often called a “pull and set” in the industry. If you decide to change the layout without altering structural components like walls, windows, or doors, it still involves opening up walls to install new electrical wiring, plumbing, or gas lines. Once the work is done, the walls will need to be repaired with fresh drywall before appliances and fixtures can be installed. Adjusting the layout and structural elements, such as expanding the kitchen or moving walls, windows, or doors, is the most expensive option — only exceeded by adding an entirely new kitchen extension.

Kitchen Cabinets

The type, quality, and number of kitchen cabinets you choose can significantly influence the overall cost of your kitchen remodel. Cabinets are generally divided into three main categories: Stock, Semi-Custom, and Custom. Each category offers a broad range of construction qualities. On the lower end, cabinets may feature particleboard or fiberboard construction, film laminate finishes, unfinished surfaces, subpar hardware, limited features, and poorly constructed joints. On the higher end, you’ll find cabinets made from solid hardwood or furniture-grade plywood, thick wood veneers, premium hardware, and extra features like soft-close mechanisms, adjustable hinges for perfect alignment, innovative storage solutions, and expertly crafted joinery.

Flooring Type

The type of flooring you choose plays a significant role in the look and practicality of your kitchen. It also has a noticeable impact on the remodeling budget. High-end options like natural stone, hardwood, and designer tiles tend to cost more, while affordable choices include laminate, engineered wood, basic tiles, or faux stone. Though flooring does contribute to the overall cost of a kitchen remodel, it typically doesn’t have a significant impact unless you opt for extremely high-end or budget-friendly materials. We Do Kitchens 2 recommends that you choose wisely according to your style and budget.

Countertop Type and Size

Your chosen type of countertop material and the size of your kitchen’s countertop area can significantly influence overall costs. Natural stone is currently the most sought-after option, with granite and marble being homeowner favorites. The cost of natural stone depends on its grade and thickness, which vary widely. Lower-grade stone is generally cheaper than entry-level quartz, while high-end quartz is priced similarly to premium granite or marble. Imported stone, which isn’t always superior to domestic options, and specific preferences for consistent grain or matching seams can drive up the price. Overall, the price difference between basic natural stone and top-tier options, including quartz, can be as high as fivefold.

Lighting Options

Lighting typically isn’t a significant expense in kitchen design. Most kitchens feature general lighting, like overhead fixtures, combined with task lighting under cabinets or above islands. Regardless of kitchen size, the number of lights your space needs doesn’t differ much. Standard recessed ceiling lights and basic undercabinet fixtures are affordable and widely used. Dimmable LED options are only slightly more expensive than basic, non-dimmable ones. However, costs can increase when opting for high-end features like custom fixtures, designer pendant lights, or advanced options like smart home-controlled lighting or adjustable color temperature systems. While these upgrades add style and functionality, they can push your lighting budget significantly higher.

Kitchen Backsplash

While it may seem trivial, a kitchen backsplash can affect your remodeling budget enough to make it a primary factor. The cost of a backsplash depends on factors like the tile pattern’s intricacy, material choices, and how far up the wall it will go. We Do Kitchens 2 covers this need with comprehensive backsplash options. We can install a backsplash using popular tile materials like glass, porcelain, ceramic, and stone, or you can opt for a mosaic blend. The final cost for this kitchen feature can elevate your living space’s style while complementing the surrounding materials, design, and décor. With our guidance, you can find the perfect tile addition behind your sink and stove and below your hanging cabinetry. Our impressive work quality ensures you get your money’s worth while adhering to the approved timeframe and budget.

We Do Kitchens 2 Is Ready to Help

You don’t need to live with a kitchen that doesn’t fit your style or household convenience and cooking needs. With We Do Kitchens 2, you can take advantage of our outstanding remodeling insight, work quality, material choices, and customer experience. We proudly serve Southeast Wisconsin homeowners, including those in Milwaukee and Greenfield. Our services start with discussing your remodeling vision, goals, needs, and budget. We use that information and kitchen measurements to provide a free estimate covering the cost of your project. Get in touch with us today to start your kitchen remodel.