Remodeling: Perk Up Tired Kitchens
Remodeling can mean many different things to many people because it truly is a matter of degree. Remodeling can include a complete tear out starting from scratch or a much less aggressive approach. Lew Snyder, Owner, Kitchen Tune-Up
$56,482
The average remodeling price for a kitchen in 2007 was $56,482.00, according to the kitchen and bath industry. And, an upscale kitchen as seen in some of the design stores at large home improvement outlets can easily go upwards of $100,000.
There are an almost infinite number of great changes if you can afford them. But, where does that leave the average Joe’s (and Joan’s), who don’t have an unlimited budget to work with.
A Degree Of Success
“I think people often get sticker shock when they look at the price of remodeling their kitchen,” Snyder said. “But there are many, many ways to update a kitchen that are much less costly than a complete demolition and rebuild. We focus our attention on kitchen solutions for any budget because even some relatively small changes can have big impact both cosmetically and functionally.“
Turning On & Tuning-Up
“Homeowners often have less involved goals when looking at making changes to their kitchen,” adds Snyder. “Our average kitchen project last year was under $6,000. Often, attaining the customer’s goal requires relatively little change.” For example:
? When cabinets are basically in good shape, but look a little dull and worn, a restoration can deliver a fresh look and feel. Sticky hand oils, smoke and cooking oils are extracted. Worn areas are repaired and a variety of finishes are applied to protect the wood and enhance the beauty.
? When seeking a different look, Stain Color–Matched new doors and drawer fronts can be installed. They are solid wood, customstained doors in a wide variety of styles that incorporate concealed hinges.
Did You Say Upgrade?
If you want a new color, wood species or layout, homeowners can use refacing or complete cabinet replacement (or a combination). The result is a completely new look.
“A lot of people are surprised when we point out that by replacing just a couple of cabinets and refacing the rest of the doors, they can achieve the look and function of a new kitchen at substantial savings,” Snyder adds. “New features that can be incorporated include glass doors, rollout trays, sliding trash bins and tip-out trays. Countertops in laminate, solid-surface materials as well as natural or man-made stone can also be installed as desired.”
When Should You Begin Remodeling… How About Now?
“Often we get called in to update the kitchen when the owner is about to sell their home,” Snyder laments. “We always wonder why they didn’t do it earlier so they could have enjoyed it for awhile. It’s a shame and I’ve heard homeowners say they regret they didn’t do it much sooner.”
“When they see what their options are and what can result, they tend to get very enthusiastic,” says Snyder. “One of the favorite parts of my job is showing homeowners affordable ways to transform their kitchens. A call is all it takes to identify the best options.”
Cabinet refacing or replacement, coupled with new ooring, paint, appliances and light xtures can create an updated, entirely different look for your kitchen.
