If you‘re considering an IKEA kitchen renovation, one of the biggest decisions you‘ll make is whether to tackle the installation yourself or hire professional help. And if you do decide to bring in the pros, should you go with IKEA‘s installation service or an independent contractor?
As a savvy shopper and kitchen design enthusiast, I‘ve done the research to help you navigate this important choice. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about IKEA kitchen installation, from cost breakdowns to customer reviews to insider tips for a smooth renovation. By the end, you‘ll have all the information you need to make the best decision for your project and budget.
IKEA Kitchen Installation Cost: What to Expect
The number one question on most homeowners‘ minds when it comes to an IKEA kitchen is: how much will it cost? The answer, of course, depends on a variety of factors, including the size of your space, the complexity of your design, and the specific products you select. However, we can look at some general price ranges to get an idea of what you can expect to pay for an IKEA kitchen installation.
According to IKEA, the average cost of a complete kitchen installation (including labor and materials) is around $10,000-$15,000. However, that‘s just a starting point. Here‘s a more detailed breakdown of potential costs:
| Kitchen Size | Basic | Average | High-End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (<70 sq. ft.) | $4,500-$6,500 | $7,000-$10,000 | $11,000+ |
| Medium (100-150 sq. ft.) | $7,500-$10,000 | $11,000-$14,000 | $16,000+ |
| Large (200+ sq. ft.) | $12,000-$16,000 | $18,000-$22,000 | $25,000+ |
As you can see, there‘s a wide range of potential costs depending on your specific needs and preferences. A basic, no-frills installation in a small kitchen may only run you $5,000 or so, while a high-end, customized renovation in a large space could easily top $25,000.
So how does this compare to the overall cost of a typical kitchen remodel? According to the 2021 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, the national average for a midrange major kitchen remodel is $75,571, while an upscale major kitchen remodel averages $149,079.
Of course, these figures include much more than just cabinetry and installation – they account for new appliances, flooring, lighting, and more. But they do give you a sense of where an IKEA kitchen falls on the spectrum. In general, IKEA kitchens are very affordable compared to other options, with the potential to deliver a high-end look at a fraction of the cost.
What‘s Included in an IKEA Kitchen Installation?
So what exactly do you get for your money when you hire IKEA to install your kitchen? The specifics may vary depending on your contract, but in general, an IKEA kitchen installation includes:
- Delivery of all materials to your home
- Demolition and removal of your old kitchen
- Installation of IKEA kitchen cabinets, hardware, and trim
- Installation of countertops and backsplash
- Installation of lighting and electrical components
- Plumbing for sinks and faucets
- Installation of appliances (if purchased from IKEA)
- Final cleanup and haul-away of debris
Basically, IKEA‘s goal is to take your space from bare walls to a completely functional new kitchen. All you have to do is sit back and let their team of professionals handle everything.
However, there are a few things that are not typically included in IKEA‘s basic kitchen installation package. These include:
- Flooring (unless you opt for IKEA‘s click-lock wood flooring)
- Wall and ceiling painting
- HVAC and ductwork modifications
- Major electrical or plumbing work (e.g. moving gas lines or adding circuits)
- Structural changes to walls, floors, or ceilings
If your kitchen renovation requires any of these additional services, you‘ll need to either hire independent contractors or see if IKEA can provide them for an additional fee. Be sure to discuss your specific needs with an IKEA kitchen specialist before signing a contract.
Hiring IKEA vs. Independent Installers
If you‘ve decided to outsource your IKEA kitchen installation rather than taking the DIY route, you may be wondering whether to go with IKEA‘s installation service or hire an independent contractor. There are pros and cons to each approach.
Advantages of IKEA Installation
- Seamless integration with IKEA‘s kitchen design process
- Access to IKEA‘s specialized kitchen planning tools and expertise
- Professional designers and project managers to guide you through the process
- Vetted, qualified installers familiar with IKEA products
- Single point of contact for design, ordering, delivery, and installation
- Backed by IKEA‘s strong warranty and customer service
- Financing available through IKEA‘s credit card
Disadvantages of IKEA Installation
- May be more expensive than hiring an independent installer, especially for larger projects
- Less flexibility and customization – you‘re limited to IKEA‘s product selection
- Potential for longer lead times and delays due to high demand and reliance on stock inventory
- Quality of service may be variable depending on location and specific subcontractors
- Limited options for add-on services like flooring, lighting, etc.
Advantages of Independent Installers
- Potential to save money, especially if you‘re able to negotiate a good rate
- More flexibility and options for customization, mixing IKEA with other brands, custom built-ins, etc.
- Faster project completion if you‘re able to find an available installer without long wait times
- Direct communication and accountability – you‘re hiring and managing the installer yourself
- Freedom to shop around and hire the best pro for your needs and budget
Disadvantages of Independent Installers
- Requires more legwork and coordination on your part – you‘ll need to find and vet potential installers yourself
- No direct integration with IKEA‘s design and ordering process
- Risk of hiring an inferior installer who lacks experience with IKEA products
- Less recourse if something goes wrong – disputes will be between you and the installer, not IKEA
- Warranty coverage may be more limited or nonexistent
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. If you value the convenience and peace of mind of one-stop shopping and professional project management, IKEA‘s installation service may be worth the potential added cost. On the other hand, if you‘re willing to put in a little extra effort to find the right installer and manage the process yourself, you may be able to save some money and get exactly what you want by going the independent route.
Tips for a Successful IKEA Kitchen Installation
Whether you opt for IKEA‘s installation service or hire an independent pro, there are a few key things you can do to set your project up for success:
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Plan ahead. The more you can finalize your design and product selections before installation begins, the smoother the process will go. Use IKEA‘s online planning tools or work with a kitchen specialist to create a detailed plan and inventory list.
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Prepare your space. Make sure your kitchen is clean, empty, and ready for work to begin. If you‘re doing any demolition or prep work yourself, have it completed before the installers arrive.
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Communicate clearly. Make sure you understand exactly what is and isn‘t included in your installation contract. If you have specific requests or concerns, discuss them upfront with your project manager.
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Stay involved. Even if you‘re not doing the work yourself, it‘s important to stay engaged in the process. Check in regularly with your installers, ask questions, and address any issues that arise promptly.
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Be realistic. No renovation is completely seamless, and there may be unexpected challenges or delays along the way. Try to maintain a positive attitude and remember that the end result will be worth it!
The Bottom Line
Installing an IKEA kitchen is a big undertaking, but it doesn‘t have to be overwhelming. With careful planning, a clear understanding of costs and options, and a trusted team of professionals, you can bring your dream kitchen to life on a realistic budget.
Whether you choose the convenience of IKEA‘s start-to-finish installation service or opt to work with an independent contractor, the keys to success are the same: plan ahead, communicate clearly, stay involved, and keep your eye on the prize.
At the end of the day, an IKEA kitchen installation is a smart choice for savvy homeowners who want a stylish, functional space without breaking the bank. With a little research and preparation, you can join the ranks of countless satisfied customers who have transformed their kitchens with IKEA.
