How to keep kitchen renovation costs low
By Ellie Reeves | 9th January 2024 | 6 min read
Tips for an affordable kitchen makeover
Cracked tiles beneath your feet, outdated appliances groaning in protest, and cabinets that haven’t seen a fresh coat of paint since the early 2000s. Sound familiar? Then it may be time for a kitchen makeover.
According to kitchen experts, we should be renovating our kitchens every 10 to 15 years. This is usually the amount of time it takes for big design and colour trends to change - and for cupboards and appliances to face significant wear from daily use.
We’re all looking for ways to reduce our spending, but that doesn’t mean we should be putting our home projects on hold. If you think it’s time to remodel your kitchen, we’ve got some helpful tips and advice for a kitchen reno on a budget.
What is the average cost of a new kitchen in the UK?
The average price of a new kitchen can vary depending on factors such as the size of the kitchen, the quality of materials used, and the level of customisation – and whether you install the kitchen yourself or appoint the help of kitchen installers. The approximate cost of a new kitchen installation in the UK ranges from £5,000 to £25,000 or more, with the average being around £7,000 to £10,000. However, it's important to note that these figures are estimates, and actual costs can vary significantly based on individual circumstances.
Renovating your kitchen when on a budget
Want to give your kitchen a makeover without breaking the bank? Check out these tips for undertaking a low cost kitchen renovation…
1. Plan, plan, plan
Plan the project as carefully as you can to avoid last-minute changes or additions, as they can add significant costs. A well-thought-out design and clear communication with your kitchen installer can help prevent unexpected expenses that you hadn’t budgeted for! Check out our article, 4 steps to planning a new kitchen for advice on everything you should consider when creating a new kitchen. Once you have a clear idea of what you need, book a free kitchen planning appointment with a showroom advisor to start your journey.
2. DIY where possible
Learning a few basic DIY skills can help you save money on labour costs. Of course, there are some parts of the job you won’t be able to do yourself, such as plumbing and electrical work. However, if it’s giving the walls a lick of paint, assembling cabinets, or laying tiles – there’s no reason why you can’t do it yourself and save yourself some pennies. Need some help? We’ve got hundreds of articles full of DIY advice – as well as loads of helpful videos over on our B&Q YouTube channel. Check them out!
3. Get at least 3 quotes from different kitchen fitters
If you’re going to hire the help of a kitchen installer, we suggest getting at least 3 quotes. Kitchen installation costs can vary greatly depending on the fitter – so it’s a good idea to compare quotes. Not only will this help you find a better deal, but you can also check you feel comfortable with who you’re hiring to fit your new kitchen.
4. Keep the layout the same
One of the biggest expenses for a kitchen renovation is making drastic changes to the layout. If you want to keep costs low, try to keep your sink, oven, and fridge in the same place. This will help to minimise the cost of moving plumbing and any electrical work (which can be costly!).
5. Focus on essential upgrades
We suggest focusing your renovation efforts on the most essential areas that require attention, such as upgrading old appliances or improving storage solutions. Allocate your budget on the most impactful changes will help to make a difference. And remember, not everything needs to be finished in one go. You can stagger different elements of your kitchen renovation to help save on costs.
6. Consider refacing cabinets instead of replacing them
Another way of saving on kitchen refit costs is to reface your cabinets instead of replacing them. Refacing involves replacing just the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the cabinet boxes. It’s normally the cabinet doors that bear the brunt of daily wear and tear, so by switching these over, you’ll be improving both the style and quality of your kitchen.
7. Use affordable kitchen materials
Kitchen materials can vary greatly in price. Consider using more affordable options like laminate worktops, vinyl flooring, and plain ceramic tiles rather than premium materials like marble or granite. Have a look at our kitchen worktop and sink buying guides for advice on the different materials available.
8. Shop around, do thorough research, and compare prices
Don’t rush into purchasing anything. Instead, take the time to compare prices from different retailers for materials, appliances, and fixtures. Look for sales, discounts, and clearance items to get the best deals on high-quality products.
9. Consider open shelving
If you’ve got a large kitchen, the cost of kitchen cabinetry can add up quite quickly. Instead of installing new upper cabinets, opt for open shelving. This can be a more cost-effective and trendier alternative. Not only can it help you stay within your budget, but open shelves are a stylish way of displaying dinnerware and adds a sense of openness to the space.
Looking for more kitchen DIY advice on a budget? Have a read of our article, Where to spend and where to save on your kitchen project. Good luck with your renovation project!