When your kitchen is looking tired and in need of modernisation, you might consider tackling the job yourself. While this is obviously a budget-friendly approach, it’s important to consider some key factors and weigh up the pros and cons. I recently renovated our 20-year-old kitchen, and it made a world of difference to the overall aesthetic and functionality. Not only did it transform our kitchen into an amazing space, but it also helped tie the whole house together. I learned some valuable lessons throughout the project, which I’d like to share with you so you can make an informed decision about whether the DIY approach is right for you.
Table of Contents
Kitchen Renovation: Before and After
Before I dive into the details and key lessons from our DIY kitchen renovation, I’d like to showcase the results of my hard work. I replaced all the cabinets, installed new tiling and rustic shelving, replaced the sink and tap and fitted a new hob extractor fan. We also installed new integrated fridge, freezers and a new dishwasher.
The only things we didn’t change were the cooker and hob. (These items still work well and don’t feel out of place in the new kitchen). The flooring has also remained the same and part of the worktops are still original. We simply extended them to provide more surface and prep areas.
How Much Money Can You Save With a DIY Kitchen Renovation?
It was difficult for us to find an exact like for like cost comparison on our kitchen renovation as we managed the project in stages and kept some of the original kitchen fixtures, like the worktops.
We did however approach a couple of the professional kitchen design and installation companies and were quoted in the region of £14,500 for completely managed installation. This included the units, sink, tap, 4 appliances and all plumbing, electrical and installation services.
We managed to buy our kitchen (which included pre assembled units) and four appliances for just under £6,000. This cost also includes all the tiling, new rustic shelves, 3m oak worktop, sink, tap and plumbing bits.
Please do bear in mind that this isn’t a like for like cost comparison but it goes to show that you can save a lot of money when taking this job on yourself. Over 50% in my case..
It’s possible to save even more money by purchasing used or ex-display kitchens from companies like Rehome. Their in frame kitchens offer excellent quality at significantly reduced prices. With their commitment to sustainability and established reputation, you could potentially save an additional 30% on your budget whilst keeping your environmental impact to a minimum.
Key Learning Points for a DIY Kitchen Renovation
I’ll talk in more detail about each of these points below but as a quick overview, here are my key considerations for a project of this nature:
- Skillset – Do you have the necessary skills or keen to learn new skills?
- Tools – Do you have a good selection of tools to complete each of the tasks to a good standard?
- Time – A project of this nature takes up to 3 weeks to complete.
- Patience – Things won’t always go to plan, can you keep calm and be persistent?
- Budget – Plan for unexpected costs. Mistakes happen and things are often missed.
- Attention to Detail – Kitchens are notoriously complex and difficult to fit to a high standard.
- Design and Functionality – Can you plan a functional kitchen better than the professionals?
- Impact on Daily Life – Can your normal day-to-day function without a working kitchen?
- Material Choice – Do you understand the different material options on the market and their pros and cons?
These are all factors that you should think about before taking on a DIY kitchen renovation. If you don’t feel like you can manage all of these criteria you should consider turning to a professional kitchen fitter. They will be able to help you make important planning and design decisions and hire a professional installer who has the experience and tools to get the job done to a high standard much quicker than you or I could.
Skillset
This is an important consideration as there are so many different skills required to finish a kitchen, as it involves a variety of tasks that require both technical expertise and practical know-how. Here are some of the jobs that might be required:
- Carpentry: Installing cabinets, shelves, and worktops often requires precise measurements, cutting, and assembly skills.
- Plumbing: Connecting sinks, taps, and appliances to water supply and drainage systems.
- Electrical Work: Installing lighting fixtures, outlets, and possibly appliances, adhering to safety standards and regulations.
- Tiling: Applying tiles to walls or floors, ensuring a level surface and proper grouting.
- Flooring Installation: Laying down new flooring materials such as tiles, laminate, or hardwood.
- Painting and Decorating: Preparing surfaces and applying paint or wallpaper to walls and ceilings.
- Knowledge of Tools: Using power tools (e.g., drills, saws) and hand tools effectively and safely.
- Problem-Solving: Being able to troubleshoot issues that may arise during installation.
It’s crucial to have the desire to learn new skills and practice them before undertaking the actual job. This might involve watching tutorials, attending workshops, or even volunteering to assist with similar projects to gain hands-on experience. I have built these skills up over the course of many years, but most of them have been self-taught from online resources.
Tools
Fitting a kitchen typically requires a variety of tools to handle different tasks. I have quite an extensive range of tools at my disposal but you might need to invest in some to ensure the job can be achieved to a high standard.
Here are the basic tools required for a job of this nature:
- Measuring Tools:
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Combination square
- Cutting Tools:
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Handsaw or tenon saw
- Utility knife or Stanley knife
- Fixing Tools:
- Cordless drill/driver with drill bits and screwdriver bits
- Hammer
- Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
- Assembly Tools:
- Clamps (for holding materials in place)
- Wood glue or construction adhesive
- Adjustment and Installation Tools:
- Adjustable spanners or wrenches
- Pliers (combination or long-nose)
- Finishing Tools:
- Sandpaper or sanding block
- Paintbrushes or rollers (if painting)
- Specialised Tools (depending on specific tasks):
- Pipe wrench or adjustable spanner for plumbing work
- Tile cutter or tile saw for tiling tasks
- Electrical tools for wiring and installation of appliances (if applicable)
- Safety Equipment:
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Dust mask
Having a comprehensive set of tools ensures you’re well-equipped to handle various aspects of kitchen fitting, from measuring and cutting to fixing and finishing. Adjust the list based on your specific project requirements and skill level.
Time
You need to factor in up to three weeks for an installation similar to mine. But this isn’t the only time consideration. You should also think about these time-consuming factors:
Time Spent Researching Kitchen Layout and Design Features
Each kitchen is different but there are common factors that apply to kitchen layouts. Ergonomic design plays an important role. Where does the sink sit in relation to the hob? Does the dishwasher door open without hitting another cupboard door handle? Is there enough space to move around counters and open drawers?
Also consider plumbing restrictions. If you don’t feel confident moving water inlet and disposal pipework, you’ll need to keep sinks and dishwashers near these facilities.
Many kitchen cabinet manufacturers offer great resources on their websites to guide customers, but marketing for manufacturers also plays a key role in showcasing the latest innovations and trends. Do your research before you start planning your kitchen layout.
Researching and exploring the different types of kitchen cabinets and drawers is essential for a successful renovation. Modern cabinets come with a variety of features, such as soft-close mechanisms, spinning shelves, and innovative design elements that enhance functionality and convenience. Understanding these options can help you make informed choices that align with your needs and preferences.
Research Your Materials and Finishes
Researching your materials and finishes is crucial when renovating a kitchen. Each material and finish option comes with its own set of characteristics, advantages, and maintenance requirements. For instance, high-gloss finishes can offer a sleek and modern look but may require more frequent cleaning to maintain their shine and appearance. On the other hand, matte finishes are known for their contemporary aesthetic and ability to hide fingerprints, although they may require special cleaning techniques to avoid showing smudges or grease marks.
Time Spent Planning and Ordering
This was one of the most time-consuming jobs for us. Measuring and drawing out the kitchen, measuring out each cupboard and planning how everything would fit together. We want to ensure all our appliances fit and each can function within the space.
Then comes the ordering process. We used an online kitchen manufacturer and whilst they had great resources on their website it took a lot of back and forth to find the perfect product for every section of the kitchen. We also hit a complication in the corner units and the space restrictions behind them. As the manufacturer didn’t have a specific product there were many backwards and forwards emails and calls to try and find the right product. This took several days to find the right solution.
Prepare For Possible Delays
Don’t plan your kitchen build two weeks before hosting a family event or something similar. You don’t know what will happen during the build. There could be damaged items that need to be replaced which could add days to your schedule. Likewise, bear in mind that the manufacturing process can take weeks. So plan and order your kitchen well ahead of any events where you need a functioning kitchen. Ours took 5 weeks to be delivered and one vital item was damaged during the delivery process which delayed the build by 3 days.
Learning New Skills
If you’re not fully skilled in kitchen fitting, you’ll likely need to acquire new skills for the job. While this can be a valuable learning experience, it can also be time-consuming. Practising beforehand can be beneficial in achieving a perfect finish. For instance, I practised cutting melamine boards from both the back and front on a scrap piece to determine which method produced the cleanest cut. I also experimented with adjusting the circular saw to different heights to minimise chipping of the boards.
Patience
Patience is crucial when fitting a kitchen because things may not always go according to plan. Too often have I encountered major setbacks, delays and the need to replace items that just haven’t gone to plan. Having a positive mindset, taking your time and concentrating on the tasks are vitally important to ensure a good finish.
Challenges such as unexpected measurements, difficult-to-assemble components, or unforeseen issues with plumbing or electrical connections often arise. It’s important to stay calm, maintain focus, and be persistent in finding solutions. Taking breaks when feeling frustrated can help regain composure and approach the problem with a clear mind. Ultimately, patience ensures that you can navigate obstacles effectively and achieve a successful kitchen installation.
Budget
When undertaking a kitchen renovation, budgeting for unexpected costs is essential. Mistakes can happen, and there are often unforeseen expenses that arise during the process. It’s wise to allocate a contingency fund to cover these unexpected costs, whether they involve replacing damaged materials, correcting errors in measurements, or addressing unforeseen issues with plumbing or electrical work.
We set aside an extra 10% for anything we missed or needed to replace. Luckily we only needed some extra plumbing as I was very careful fitting all the units and appliances.
By planning ahead and setting aside extra funds, you can navigate setbacks without compromising the overall quality and completion of your kitchen project. This approach ensures a smoother renovation experience and helps you stay within your financial limits.
Attention to Detail
Having a keen eye and attention to detail is essential in a DIY kitchen renovation. This quality ensures that every aspect of the project, from measuring and cutting to fitting and finishing, is done accurately and meticulously. Aligning cabinets and cupboards can be painstakingly slow and notoriously difficult due to uneven surfaces. Fine tuning doors and drawers can be achieved with the use of the built in hinge adjusters and plenty of patience.
Attention to detail helps avoid common mistakes that can compromise the overall quality and functionality of the kitchen. It also ensures that all elements, such as cabinet alignment, tiling, and paintwork, are completed to a high standard, resulting in a polished and professional-looking finish. By focusing on the finer points, you can achieve a kitchen renovation that not only looks great but also stands the test of time.
Design and Functionality
Sure, you can copy your existing kitchen layout but when it comes to it, there are so many different options and stylers available on the market it can get confusing and easily overwhelming. This is where a professional kitchen designer can help you get the best out of your space.
You might want to consider designing a kitchen with a professional and fitting it yourself. This is always an option as a paid service or as free advice from a kitchen manufacturer.
We designed our new kitchen layout to be very similar to the existing one, with a few minor tweeks to drawers and cabinet widths. We added an extra appliance which complicated matters slightly, but nothing we couldn’t handle. The design process was carried out using some free kitchen design software so all the measurements worked out well when it came to the installation.
Impact On Daily life
Renovating your kitchen will inevitably impact your daily life. The disruption can be significant, so it’s essential to plan how you will manage without a fully functional kitchen. We managed to adapt by setting up a temporary kitchen in a separate room, which included moving essentials like the fridge and freezer. Cooking was kept to a minimum, and we relied more on takeaways and ready meals to get by. Consider how you will handle meal preparation, storage, and cleanup during the renovation period to minimise stress and maintain some normalcy in your daily routine.
Understanding Materials
Choosing the right materials for your kitchen renovation is crucial. It’s important to understand the various options available and their respective pros and cons. For instance, solid wood cabinets offer durability and a timeless look but can be expensive and require regular maintenance. Laminate countertops are budget-friendly and easy to clean, but they may not be as durable as stone options like granite or quartz. Each material has unique characteristics that can impact the aesthetics, functionality, and longevity of your kitchen. Thorough research and careful consideration will help you select materials that align with your needs, budget, and design vision.
Summary
Renovating your kitchen yourself can be a rewarding and budget-friendly endeavour, but it requires careful consideration of several factors. From skillset and tools to time and patience, each element plays a crucial role in the success of your project. Our DIY kitchen renovation transformed our 20-year-old space into a modern, functional hub while saving us over 50% compared to professional quotes. However, it demanded meticulous planning, a willingness to learn new skills, and the ability to adapt when things didn’t go as planned.
It’s also important to understand the various materials and finishes available and to plan for unexpected costs. Creating a temporary kitchen setup can help manage daily life disruptions during the renovation. If you’re confident in your abilities and prepared for the challenges, a DIY kitchen renovation can be incredibly satisfying and cost-effective. Otherwise, consulting a professional, like Kitchen & Bathrooms, might be the better choice to ensure a high-quality finish and a smoother experience.
Ultimately, the decision to renovate your kitchen yourself or hire professionals depends on your skills, resources, and the scope of your project. Whatever you choose, thorough research and planning will pave the way for a successful and beautiful kitchen transformation.
