KITCHEN REMODEL

It depends on scope. An entry-level cosmetic refresh_SPLIT — new cabinets, countertops, fixtures, no layout changes — runs $40,000 to $60,000. A mid-range full remodel with layout changes and semi-custom cabinets is $75,000 to $100,000+. Luxury kitchens with high-end appliances (Wolf, Thermador, Sub-Zero) and custom everything start at $100,000 and go to $150,000+. Appliances alone can run $30,000 to $50,000 at the luxury level. Cast iron plumbing replacement can add $10,000 to $20,000.

A cosmetic refresh with no layout changes takes less than 1 month of construction. A full remodel with layout changes runs 1–3 months of construction, plus 3–5 months of pre-construction (design, selections, permitting). Major structural kitchen remodels can go 3+ months in the field. Cabinet lead times add 6–12 weeks depending on manufacturer — we build this into the project schedule so cabinets arrive when the kitchen is ready for them.

Yes, but understand what you’re signing up for. The kitchen is the most disruptive room to remodel — you lose your sink, dishwasher, stove, and cooking surface for weeks or months. Most clients eat out, order delivery, or set up a temporary station with a microwave and mini-fridge in another room. Some relocate for the duration of construction, especially for full remodels. We’ll give you a realistic timeline so you can plan.

If any plumbing or electrical is being moved or modified, yes. If it’s purely cosmetic — cabinet swap, new countertops, backsplash, appliance replacement in the same location — no permit is required. Permitting in St. Petersburg currently takes 2–5 weeks. We handle all submittals and schedule all inspections.

Materials are billed at cost plus a 30% markup. Labor at hourly rates. Before construction starts, 75% of your line items are confirmed fixed-price from subs and vendors — giving you 90–95% budget certainty. You get weekly budget reports comparing actuals to the original estimate. When something goes faster than expected, you save money. When a surprise pops up inside an old wall, we discuss it openly and bill fairly. You see every invoice.

A refresh keeps your existing layout — new cabinets, countertops, fixtures, paint, flooring, but the sink, stove, and fridge stay where they are. A full remodel changes the layout: moving walls, relocating plumbing and electrical, redesigning how the space functions. A refresh runs $40K–$60K. A full remodel starts at $75K and goes up from there. The right choice depends on whether your kitchen’s layout works or the layout itself is the problem.

The more decisions finalized before construction, the faster and cheaper the build. Key pre-construction decisions: cabinet style and finish, countertop material, appliance brands and models (with lead times identified), tile for backsplash and floors, fixture styles, lighting plan, and final layout approval. An hour spent on selections saves two hours in the field.

If your home is in a FEMA flood zone, a kitchen remodel that exceeds 49% of the building’s market value triggers the Substantial Improvement rule — meaning the entire structure may need to come into compliance with current flood elevation requirements. We’ve completed $10–20 million+ in flood zone projects across three hurricane seasons. We know which materials and methods work in coastal environments and how to navigate FEMA permitting requirements.