Tips For Saving Money on Kitchen Home Improvement Projects
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
A kitchen remodeling project can dramatically improve the look and functionality of your kitchen. Unfortunately, it isn't cheap. Here are a few ways you and your remodeling contractor can do to save money.
Avoid demolition work that involves disconnecting gas lines or removing wiring; these jobs require specialized training.
There are many ways to save when working on a home improvement project. When remodeling the kitchen, talk with your contractor about creative ways to avoid demolition and materials costs.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
Ask Contractor About Kitchen Demolition
While many large home improvement projects are better handled by an experienced remodeling contractor, kitchen demolition can be completed by almost anyone. Ask your contractor if you and a friend can do some of the work to save money. Some do-it-yourself projects include:- Removing old cabinets, countertops, tile and floors
- Removing old drywall or plaster to open the walls for electrical and plumbing work
Avoid demolition work that involves disconnecting gas lines or removing wiring; these jobs require specialized training.
Saving Money on Kitchen Cabinets
The kitchen cabinets are the most prominent - and costly - part of most kitchen remodeling projects. Ask your contractor about:- Which wood species are more economical - try oak instead of maple or cherry, for example
- Whether cabinet stains can spruce up a standard cabinet wood, such as adding a cherry stain to oak.
Save When Buying Home Improvement Materials
A major expense in kitchen remodeling is the materials. When planning the project with your remodeling contractor, ask whether there are ways to cut cost. For example:- Does the remodeling contractor get a discount at the tile shop you like?
- Can the contractor buy some materials in bulk to save money?
- When installing tile, can the contractor suggest an inexpensive field tile, surrounded by just a few pricier accent tiles?
There are many ways to save when working on a home improvement project. When remodeling the kitchen, talk with your contractor about creative ways to avoid demolition and materials costs.
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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