Bryan Baeumler’s Tips to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel

The kitchen is the gathering space in any home. It’s the room that families spend the most time in, especially in my house. Whether it’s preparing meals or enjoying each other’s company, it’s by far the space that gets the most use. The kitchen is also one of the best home improvements to invest in, as it will increase the overall value of your space dramatically. While renovating your cooking space may not be cheap, there are some tips and tricks that can help you avoid breaking that budget. Here’s a list of easy and cost-effective options to consider.

Bryan Baeumler is one of HGTV Canada’s go-to contractors and the host of Island of Bryan, Bryan Inc., House of Bryan and Leave it to Bryan.

Published March 1, 2018, Updated January 19, 2020

HGTV Canada

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Demo it Yourself

A great way to stay on budget when embarking on a kitchen renovation is by tackling the demolition process yourself. It may be a messy and time-consuming job, but there’s something very therapeutic about swinging a mallet at your old kitchen cabinets. Try it out!

Getty Images

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Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets

Everyone knows that cabinets can make or break the look of your kitchen. While custom kitchen cabinets can greatly increase the cost of your remodel, ready-to-assemble cabinets will save your budget and still make your kitchen look brand new.

Jarrett Ford

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DIY Projects

DIY is a term that makes homeowners either cringe or get ready for a challenge. The truth is, DIY projects are the best way for homeowners to save money when remodeling their kitchen. Try repurposing old, dated fixtures or furniture to keep costs low. It may be a bit of work, but it will definitely be worth it in the end. Here are 10 more reno DIYs you’ve never considered (but definitely should!).

Jarrett Ford

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Paint Your Cabinets

The cost of brand new cabinets can definitely put a dent in your budget. Another cost-effective way to update your cabinets is by simply giving them a fresh coat of paint. This will revive your cabinets and give your space stylish appeal. For a little inspiration, check out these ways to totally transform your kitchen cabinets without replacing them.

HGTV Canada

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Refacing Cabinets

Instead of replacing (or painting) your cabinets, refacing them will also reinvent their look. By just swapping out the doors on the cabinets, it will leave your kitchen looking current, without the high cost.

White kitchen with island and stainless steel appliances

Unsplash

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Don’t Change the Layout

Most homeowners don’t realize how much changing the layout of their kitchen will cost. When switching things around, you need to consider factors such as moving doors, windows and walls. It is much more cost effective to keep the original layout and work with what you have. If you’re considering big changes, check out these downsides to open-concept living you’ve never considered.

Stainless steel fridge in blue and white kitchen

Jarrett Ford

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Keep Existing Electrical

Another way to avoid going over budget is to leave the existing lighting and appliances where they are. Once you begin moving lighting fixtures and appliances around, you will need to hire an electrician to come in and rewire. Try to work the remodel around where the current outlets are. See here for 10 more jobs that always require a professional.

Kitchen sink overlooking windows and greenery

Lauren Kolyn

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Avoid Moving Your Sink

Much like the lighting, avoid moving the location of your kitchen sink. By keeping all the plumbing exactly where it is, you will be able to save the cost of bringing in a plumber. For inspiration, check out these envy-worthy kitchens that make us want to reno our own immediately.

HGTV Canada

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Use the Tile You Have

Another tip in keeping the cost low for a kitchen remodel is by making use of what you have. Instead of spending the money in redoing the backsplash or tile, try working with what’s there and building around it. This will save your budget in the long run.

Unsplash

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Bargain Hunting

Not everything you’re using to remodel your kitchen needs to be brand new. Try searching for cabinets on wholesale or at a second-hand store. They might need some work, but if it’s a sturdy and solid set, then a fresh coat of paint might be all you need. If you’re looking for appliances, try looking for the floor models in retailers. They are usually discounted. By taking the time to shop around, you may be able to find some great deals that won’t break the budget. As for these common home upgrades, they’re always worth the extra money.