How to Determine Your Cabinet Refacing Budget
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
During a cabinet refacing project, many homeowners complete other household projects, such as replacing their countertops, sink and faucet. If you are planning several home improvement projects, here's how to prepare a budget to keep spending in line.
Many cabinet refacing contractors offer other services that complement the cabinet refacing. You may want to replace your old countertop or add a new double bowl sink, for example. When debating all the home improvement options, start by getting detailed estimates on each project.
Depending on the home improvement project, the cost may be straight forward or a figure that varies widely. Many single handled chrome faucets, for example, cost less than $100. If you are buying a granite countertop the cost will vary based on the grade of stone, its country of origin and other factors. Ask your contractor to provide a range and indicate "high," "medium" and "low" prices.
Once you have all your prices, compare them with your home improvement budget. Can you get the things you want without exceeding your budget or should you postpone one or two projects? Another option is to scale back on some of the frills, such as cabinet molding or a designer countertop pattern.
Your budget also should include a home improvement contingency fund of 15 to 20 percent. This will cover any product cost increases or unexpected surprises.
A cabinet refacing project presents many opportunities for updating other parts of your kitchen. To keep the home improvement projects manageable, keep a detailed budget and update it regularly.
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
Many cabinet refacing contractors offer other services that complement the cabinet refacing. You may want to replace your old countertop or add a new double bowl sink, for example. When debating all the home improvement options, start by getting detailed estimates on each project.
Depending on the home improvement project, the cost may be straight forward or a figure that varies widely. Many single handled chrome faucets, for example, cost less than $100. If you are buying a granite countertop the cost will vary based on the grade of stone, its country of origin and other factors. Ask your contractor to provide a range and indicate "high," "medium" and "low" prices.
Once you have all your prices, compare them with your home improvement budget. Can you get the things you want without exceeding your budget or should you postpone one or two projects? Another option is to scale back on some of the frills, such as cabinet molding or a designer countertop pattern.
Your budget also should include a home improvement contingency fund of 15 to 20 percent. This will cover any product cost increases or unexpected surprises.
A cabinet refacing project presents many opportunities for updating other parts of your kitchen. To keep the home improvement projects manageable, keep a detailed budget and update it regularly.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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