How to save on kitchen renovations

A kitchen is the focal point of a house, which is why it is called the heart of the house. It is also the major factor in determining your house’s value. Kitchen remodeling cost does not have to be high when you use money-saving methods to give your kitchen a fresh look and a boost in value.

Cabinets

Kitchen renovations should start with the cabinetry. The cabinets are the focal point of any kitchen and the way they look determine the feel and value of the room instantly. Repainting Bring life to the old kitchen cupboard doors with a fresh coat of paint in a new colour. Sand the cabinet doors and drawer fronts down to the original wood. Apply a primer coat to help the paint to stick better. Paint the cabinet doors and drawer fronts in a fresh new colour which will complement the kitchen wall colour. Refacing the kitchen Refacing is a popular method today. It is a little more expensive than repainting but much cheaper and easier than installing new cabinets. Replace cabinet doors and drawer fronts with new designs or styles in colours which harmonise the kitchen. Don’t forget to replace the knobs and handles with a complementary design. Replacing If you must replace or install new cabinets, choose particleboard cabinet boxes and solid wood doors.This can reduce the kitchen renovation cost dramatically.

Counter tops

If the counter top is in good condition, revitalise its look by installing an inexpensive tiled back-splash. If you must replace the counter top, granite and corian are the most popular materials used but they are quite expensive. Consider using Formica instead. It looks better today and is made with an angled-edge to make cabinet fronts appear rounded.

Flooring

When you need to replace a floor, remember that ceramic and wood generally cost about the same amount. Hence, you can just pick whichever you like the best. Laminated and linoleum are both easy to install and to keep kitchen remodeling costs down. Both are designed to look like the real thing and are scratch and water-resistant.

Appliances

Along with the cabinets, the appliances also make or break the look of a kitchen. Stainless steel appliances are expensive. You can have the look of stainless steel by choosing appliances which have the expensive look without the expensive price tag. Ask about floor models or slightly scratched appliances to save even more money. They still come with a full warranty but can be 40-60% cheaper. Every time you are remodeling kitchens or other rooms, electrical work is where you do not want to skimp. Hence, hire a professional to ensure that the work is done correctly and safely.