Surface-Level Kitchen Renovation

It's the great secret that no one wants to admit, and it's called surface-level kitchen renovation.

Confronted with the prospect of a $75,000 full-scale kitchen remodeling project, complete with contractors, designers, and vacating the house for three months - many homeowners consider a surface renovation. Personally, I feel there is no shame here. Let's look at this common practice, and how many people do it:

1. Cheaper, Easier Flooring

Vinyl sheet or tile are cheap and an easy DIY install. Do you really need that Tuscan marble? Whatever you do, make sure the flooring resists water - though it doesn't necessarily have to be waterproof. Laminate flooring can often be installed over existing flooring, obviating the need for demolition.

2. Off-the-Rack Cabinetry

It's easy to find kitchen cabinetry from places like The Home Depot, Lowe's, and IKEA, in standard sizes. Far cheaper than custom cabinetry, and almost any general contractor or handyman can install it. Another fix that is even more "surface" is cabinet refacing.

3. Less Expensive Surfaces

Kitchen countertops can break your budget. Concrete, stainless steel, and stone can get pricey. Consider ceramic tile or even wood.

4. Limit Electrical Rewiring

A complete kitchen rewiring project can take up 25% or more of your budget. If your existing system is safe and can carry the current load, consider whether you really need those big, power-sucking appliances like double-ovens, super-sized electric ranges, and ancillary appliances like trash compactors.

5. Keep Everything in Place

Anything that involves moving plumbing will jack up your budget and timeline. Keep that sink in place. Basic kitchen layouts still work great, and you may even find that the classic kitchen triangle, while dated, still suits you fine.

6. Permitting

Anything that requires a permit is an immediate "tip" that this job will take time and money and is more than a surface remodel. Plumbing, electrical, and changing exterior walls all involve permits.