Demolishing a kitchen can be necessary if there is any previous damage in the home that requires repair or if homeowners want to do a complete kitchen remodel.
Attractive and efficient kitchen spaces can provide a more workable area and help increase the home’s overall resale value when it comes time to move.
But will the cost of a kitchen demo outweigh the benefits? Several factors can help determine the total costs of this project and what you can prepare for this task in your renovation budget.
Factors That Affect Kitchen Demo Costs
Budgeting for a renovation can be complicated. Before you start swinging the sledgehammer and pulling out old light fixtures, or calling a contractor, consider these elements:
- The location of your home
- The kitchen components
- The reason for the remodel
- If it will be a DIY project or using professional contractor services
The Location Of Your Home
Where you live will directly affect how much a kitchen demo will cost. For example, some larger cities may have multiple contractor options, while smaller rural centers can bring a higher bill due to traveling costs, labor shortages, or lack of competition.
The Kitchen Components
One significant element in kitchen demo costs will be the kitchen components. These critical items include:
- Cabinets
- Countertops and backsplash
- Sinks and plumbing
- Floors and walls
- Lighting and electrical needs
Of course, the time it takes to remove these components will affect the total demolition costs. If you are looking at removing only one or a couple of kitchen elements, you can keep the budget low at only a few hundred dollars in labor costs.
However, if you require a professional to complete an entire large kitchen demolition, you could be facing a final bill of around $1,400 for labor alone.
The Reason For the Demolition
The reason for the remodel plays a significant part in the overall costs of your kitchen demo. For example, homes with significant structural damage from a flood or fire will require a large-scale demo to remove all the damaged materials.
The final costs can be significant if you require new cabinets and appliances or want a completely fresh start for better functionality. On the other hand, homeowners looking for an inexpensive remodel to give their home a refreshing new look can keep a tight budget and make only minor changes.
Will It Be a DIY or a Professional Contractor Job?
Naturally, homeowners who can do the labor on their own will save money in the demo budget. Unfortunately, not everyone can complete a renovation job themselves, making it necessary to hire a professional contractor. The type of kitchen demo will also determine if you require one person or more to complete the job.
How Much Does It Cost To Demo a Kitchen?
So, how do you know what to budget for in a kitchen demo and remodel job? The final demolition costs will reflect how much work is necessary to clean out the space and haul away all the old materials.
For a simple wall and cabinet removal, homeowners may end up with a bill of around $600. Naturally, the more walls and cabinetry that need removal, the longer hours a contractor will be putting in, increasing the costs. Depending on the complexity, an average price can be as high as $2,500 or more for an extensive kitchen demo.
On average, homeowners can expect a kitchen demo to take between 10 and 20 man-hours to complete. Of course, professional contractor rates will vary, but once you have an estimate on labor, you can adjust your budget accordingly.
Finding the Right Help For Your Kitchen Demo
It is beneficial to research contractors in your area that can provide professional demolition services before you begin your kitchen demo. Any company you choose should have the proper supplies and training to complete the job correctly, as well as insurance to protect them and your family from any unforeseen circumstances.
Being diligent and asking for references from past clients can give homeowners an indication of the type of work a company is capable of and their professionalism. In addition, obtaining estimates beforehand and discussing the elements of your kitchen demo can help clear up any miscommunications before the job starts.
For many homeowners, it’s worth every penny to have a professional complete their kitchen demo. These individuals will not only gut your kitchen space to get it ready for a new remodel, but they handle all the clean-up, making it the best choice for many busy families.