Kitchen and bathroom renovations are among the most valuable investments you can make in your home. Not only do they enhance the functionality and comfort of your living space, but they also significantly increase property value. That said, budgeting for kitchen and bathroom renovations can be overwhelming—especially when trying to balance costs, timelines, and design dreams.
Whether you're planning a full remodel or a few strategic upgrades, having a clear financial plan is key to avoiding surprise costs and unnecessary delays. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to create a smart, realistic budget for your kitchen and bathroom renovation project—especially if you’re a homeowner in Edmonton.
And if you need expert guidance and trustworthy service, Steadfast Constructions Ltd. is here to help you renovate with confidence.
Why Budgeting Matters for Renovations
Renovating your kitchen or bathroom is exciting—but costs can spiral quickly without a solid plan. Budgeting ensures:
- You stay within your financial limits
- Design choices align with cost expectations
- You’re prepared for unexpected issues
- You avoid overspending on unnecessary upgrades
- You know what you’re paying for—and why
Think of your budget as your renovation roadmap. With it, you’re in control. Without it, you're guessing.
Average Costs of Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations in Edmonton
Before diving into budget planning, it’s important to understand local pricing. Here's a general cost range for renovations in Edmonton:
- Basic Bathroom Remodel: $10,000 – $15,000
- Mid-Range Bathroom Upgrade: $15,000 – $25,000
- High-End Bathroom Remodel: $25,000+
- Basic Kitchen Renovation: $18,000 – $30,000
- Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel: $30,000 – $50,000
- High-End Kitchen Remodel: $50,000 – $100,000+
Note: These ranges include materials, labor, and project management. The exact cost will vary depending on design, square footage, and your choice of finishes.
Step-by-Step: How to Budget for Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations
1. Determine Your Maximum Budget
Start by reviewing your savings or financing options. Ask yourself:
- How much are you comfortable spending?
- Will you use cash, a line of credit, or a home equity loan?
- Is this renovation for resale or long-term enjoyment?
This will set your ceiling and help guide every financial decision going forward.
Pro Tip: Don’t spend more than 10–15% of your home’s value on a single kitchen or bathroom renovation if resale is a priority.
2. Break Down the Budget by Category
A detailed renovation budget should be broken into categories so you know where every dollar is going.
For Bathrooms:
- Labour: 30–40%
- Fixtures (toilet, sink, tub): 15–20%
- Tiles & Flooring: 10–15%
- Vanity & Countertop: 10–15%
- Plumbing & Electrical: 10–15%
- Painting, lighting, finishes: 5–10%
For Kitchens:
- Cabinets: 30–40%
- Labour: 20–30%
- Appliances: 10–15%
- Countertops: 10–15%
- Plumbing & Electrical: 5–10%
- Backsplash, flooring, finishes: 10–15%
Breaking the budget this way helps prioritize spending while keeping unnecessary upgrades in check.
3. Decide Between “Must-Haves” and “Nice-to-Haves”
Creating two lists—non-negotiables and wish list items—can help keep your renovation aligned with your finances.
Must-Haves:
- New plumbing for a leaking or outdated system
- Functional cabinets or storage
- Updated electrical for safety
- Waterproofing in the bathroom
Nice-to-Haves:
- Heated floors
- Smart lighting or touchless faucets
- Quartz countertops over laminate
- Designer hardware and luxury fixtures
Once you’ve locked in the essentials, you can see where there’s room to splurge—or save.
4. Get Multiple Quotes from Local Contractors
Costs can vary significantly between contractors, so it’s smart to compare.
Ask for detailed written quotes that include:
- Labor and materials
- Permitting fees
- Timelines
- Payment schedules
- Warranty information
If you’re in Edmonton, hiring a contractor like Steadfast Constructions Ltd. ensures you're working with a team that understands local building codes, suppliers, and weather-related challenges.
5. Don’t Forget About Permits and Inspections
Many kitchen and bathroom renovations in Edmonton require permits, especially if you’re updating plumbing, electrical, or structural elements.
Common permit-related costs:
- Building permit: ~$200–$500
- Plumbing/Electrical: ~$150–$400 each
- Inspection fees (if not included in contractor pricing)
At Steadfast Constructions Ltd., we handle all permits and inspections for you, so your renovation is 100% code-compliant and stress-free.
6. Plan for Contingencies
Always set aside 10–15% of your total budget for unexpected costs. These could include:
- Hidden water damage
- Mold or asbestos removal
- Plumbing reroutes
- Delivery delays or price increases
Having a cushion ensures surprises don’t derail your project or force design compromises.
7. Track and Adjust as You Go
Use a spreadsheet or renovation app to track costs in real time. This keeps you informed and gives you flexibility if you need to reallocate funds.
Cost-Saving Tips for Smart Renovations
- Reface or repaint kitchen cabinets instead of replacing
- Use luxury-look materials like vinyl tile or laminate
- Choose standard-size fixtures and avoid custom work
- Shop seasonal sales or clearance for tiles and finishes
- Keep plumbing in the same location to avoid major rerouting costs
Why Work with Steadfast Constructions Ltd.?
As one of Edmonton’s trusted home renovation contractors, Steadfast Constructions Ltd. helps homeowners navigate every stage of renovation—from budgeting and design to permitting and final walkthrough.
What We Offer:
- Transparent estimates with itemized costs
- Full-service kitchen and bathroom renovations
- Local knowledge of Edmonton building codes and suppliers
- Permit handling and licensed trades
- Clear communication from start to finish
We don't just build—we guide you through a smooth, efficient, and financially smart renovation journey.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to budgeting for kitchen and bathroom renovations, a clear financial plan is the foundation of a successful project. From defining your must-haves to building in contingency costs, smart budgeting gives you control and confidence—whether you’re doing a light refresh or a complete remodel.
And if you're looking for expert guidance, quality workmanship, and transparent pricing in Edmonton, Steadfast Constructions Ltd. is your go-to renovation partner.
Ready to Renovate Smart?
Contact Steadfast Constructions Ltd. today for a FREE consultation and budget estimate for your kitchen or bathroom renovation in Edmonton.
Serving Edmonton and surrounding areas with professionalism and precision.
Visit our website to explore our portfolio and renovation resources.