Average Kitchen Remodeling Costs in Miami, FL

Your kitchen is the most critical area of the home. Though it used to be a small boxed-in place that was dreary and hot, it’s now the place where everyone gravitates while visiting. If you’re thinking of remodeling your Miami kitchen and own your home, there are many points to consider. Ultimately, you can make changes to the backsplash, flooring, counters, and cabinets. 

While it seems like a huge undertaking right now, you spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Therefore, it’s the one place that should be comforting, well-lit, and easy to find things in. Those who want a kitchen remodel for their Miami homes are sure to appreciate this guide. It explains everything you need to know about the different materials and helps you understand the costs and pros/cons.

Once you’re ready to start, you’re already on your way because you know what you want. This makes it easier for the contractors, but it also takes a lot of pressure off you and your family. Be prepared to think about the options as they come along. That way, you can compare them all and figure out the suitable choices for your kitchen.

Remodel a Kitchen: The Costs

There are so many things & ideas that go into a kitchen remodel, so it’s hard to tell you what the exact kitchen remodel cost will be for you. However, there are averages and high-end pricing to get a better idea of the price you pay.

At a minimum, you’re probably going to spend about $8,000, and that gives you the basics.

However, most people go to the $12,500 range because it allows them more customization and can handle the entire kitchen from flooring to cabinets. If you want to go all-out with high-end products, you’re sure to spend $34,800 or more.

Miami Kitchen Remodeling Prices

Typically, the average cost for a kitchen remodel in Miami is just over $12,000. That seems high, and we understand that. However, we’ve seen prices as low as $8,000. There’s an average breakdown of how much you spend when remodeling the whole kitchen. Many Miami homeowners report spending this much on each aspect:

• Hardware and Cabinetry – 29 percent
• Installation Fees – 17 percent
• Ventilation and Appliances – 14 percent
• Countertops – 10 percent
• Flooring – 7 percent
• Ceilings and Walls – 5 percent
• Lighting – 5 percent
• Design costs (designer fees) – 4 percent
• Windows and Doors – 4 percent
• Plumbing and Faucets – 4 percent
• Other – 1 percent

Ultimately, you can save money now if you don’t renovate the entire room and change everything about it. Still, the price you pay is mainly based on what you’re updating. Therefore, it’s hard for us to give you an accurate estimate. No company should do that in an article. If you’re ready to start your project, though, you can always contact us to get a free quote. We’re going to come to your home, assess it, listen to what you want, and tell you how much it’s all going to cost.

Kitchen Materials Prices in Miami

Your kitchen remodel cost is based on various factors, and the price can rise or lower based on what you want. However, most of your kitchen remodel budget is going to go to the labor and materials. Therefore, you need to know about each category and what’s available for you. That way, you understand what’s going on before you start your renovation for your Miami kitchen.

Here are the costs associated with the most common materials used in the kitchen:

Flooring

Ceramic Tile Flooring

Ceramic tile is still quite popular, even though other flooring types are seeing the limelight, too. Homeowners enjoy the glossy feel and look of the tile within the kitchen. Plus, This ceramic tile flooring can use it in other areas of the home. Before deciding to buy ceramic tile flooring, consider the overall cost.

Typically, the average minimum you’re going to pay for ceramic tile flooring is $0.85 to $2.40 per square foot. Therefore, if you have a 500-square-foot kitchen, you can expect to spend between $425 and $1,200. 

Pros:

• Made from inorganic material and hardened with fire
• Durable (takes excessive use quickly and repels moisture and spills
• Easy to clean (can use regular cleaning supplies or just plain water)
• No special maintenance necessary 
• Deep cleaning possible with traditional floor cleaners
• Cost-effective (installation ranges from $3 to $7 for each square foot)

Cons:

• It has a complex and cold quality to it
• Hard on the legs, back, and feet when standing for long periods
• Discolored grout
• hard-to-clean grout
• Anything dropped on ceramic tile can break
• It can be very slick when wet or moist
• Common for there to be quality and color inconsistencies 
• Must measure accurately and buy enough of the same lot number to avoid color differences

Vinyl Floors

Sheet vinyl flooring is also an inexpensive option when compared to tile and wood. Typically, the least expensive is matte and off-white. However, you can spend more and have an elegant pattern. It’s generally anywhere from $0.50 to $3.50 per square foot. The installation of the sheet vinyl is another cost consideration, and it can vary based on the scale and scope of the job. If the professional must cut the squares to accommodate room shape irregularities, be prepared to spend more.

Pros:

• Very easy to install
• Many flooring professionals can work with it
• Some handy DIY homeowners can install this type of flooring themselves
• Water-resistant (perfect for kitchens and bathrooms)
• Moisture doesn’t soak into the vinyl if it’s in good condition and the adhesive holds
• Resistant to damage (can’t easily gouge or scratch it)
• Rigid but not brittle
• Can move furniture across it with skids
• Easy to clean (can use regular or generic floor cleaners without an issue)

Cons:

• Can develop mold under the vinyl tiles if there’s a gap between the subfloor and vinyl sheets
• Once moisture is trapped underneath the vinyl, it holds it inside, so mold spreads quickly.
• The only way to avoid mold development is to have a professional install it.
• Functional but not beautiful
• It doesn’t raise the value of a home

Laminate Floors

If you’re interested in a stylish and fresh look for your kitchen and you’re on a budget, laminate flooring is a great choice. It’s designed to look like stone, hardwood, or tile for a fraction of the price. Though it’s less expensive than other options, it’s certainly not cheap. Typically, the price goes from $1 to $5 per square foot. On top of that, the installation costs are also within that range.

There are various cost factors to consider. For example, you may need to add more subflooring, which could cost several hundred dollars more. It’s also essential to think about the removal and disposal of the current flooring, which can also boost the price. You may also need a new trim or baseboard, which ranges from $50 to $250.

Pros:

• It gives you the appearance and design as more expensive options (stone and hardwood) for a fraction of the price.
• Easy to maintain
• Highly durable
• Thin profile (can usually be put over the existing flooring material)
• Less expensive and faster installation in most cases

Cons:

• It doesn’t add as much value to the home as it imitates.
• Others can see it as ‘low-quality.’
• Is susceptible to moisture
• Core swells if exposed to water.
• Since photographic imaging is used, the surface look you see is the only option you have without replacing the laminate.
• It can’t be painted, restained, or sanded to look different.

Carpet 

Carpet is another inexpensive option, though it’s not often considered for the kitchen. Typically, it’s cheaper than many other options, but it can still cost a lot. For a small room, you can expect to pay $200, but if you’ve got a larger area and want something stain-resistant, it can be as high as $4,000. It’s roughly $1 to $10 per square foot.

You’ve also got other fees associated with putting carpet in your kitchen. Labor can run $3 to $6 per yard, and furniture moving is about $2 per yard. If you have specialty (high-end) carpet installed, expect added fees to handle it. When it’s all said and done, you can easily spend $20 per square foot to have carpet installed.

There are various types of carpet, including:

Cut Pile (Saxony, Plush, Frieze, and Textured)

Pros:

• Fibers don’t snag as much
• Looks uniform

Cons:

• Can’t handle high traffic areas
• Stains are possible

Loop Pile (Berber, Multi-Level Loop, and Level Loop)

Pros:

• More traffic-resistant
• Can be stain-resistant

Cons:

• Can catch in pet paws
• Hard to clean
• Much heavier (more installation fees)

Wool

Pros:

• It doesn’t show soil very easily
• Stands up to heavy foot traffic
• Great insulating properties
• Easy to clean
• Good absorbency
• Naturally flame retardant

Cons:

• More expensive because of processing costs
• Can distort if heated or agitated
• Stains easily
• Must use special cleaners

Nylon

Pros:

• Good elasticity (stretches to a third of its length and comes back)
• Hard-wearing
• Static resistant
• Keeps dye, crimp, and twist well
• Dries quickly
• Mildew-resistant (still can be damaged from overwatering plants)
• Handles cleaning efficiently

Cons:

• Acid dyed (issues with fading, pet urine, bleaching, etc.)

Triexta

Pros:

• Stain- and fade-resistant
• Cleans easily
• Various styles and colors available

Cons:

• Low resistance to oil stains
• It hasn’t been available long enough to know its complete properties

Polyester

Pros:

• Low absorbency (can resist water well)
• Resistant to bleaching, soil dye reactions, and fading

Cons:

• Hard to dye (limits variety)
• Not oil-based spill-resistant
• It loses its crimp easily

Olefin

Pros:

• Moisture resistant
• Stain-resistant
• Fade-resistant

Cons:

• Not resilient
• Heat sensitive
• It can be damaged when dragging items over it
• Can show soil/dirt/grime

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo is quickly becoming a top flooring choice for commercial buildings and homes. It offers the durability, feels, and appearance of hardwood, but it doesn’t cost that much. 

Typically, you can expect to spend anywhere from $2 to $7 per square foot. The price you pay is based on various factors. However, the first thing is to decide on solid or engineered bamboo flooring planks. Engineered planks are just snapped together, while solid planks have to be nailed or stapled to the floor. Still, you can expect to pay more for the engineered version because it’s easier to install.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly (Bamboo is a grass, and it multiplies)
• Tough and durable
• Withstands frequent foot traffic and heavy use
• Very attractive
• It’s hard to see the difference between hardwood and bamboo planks
• Less expensive than many hardwood flooring materials

Cons:

• Low-quality materials can easily scratch and dent
• Can contain formaldehyde
• It might not fit with your style of home

Most of the issues are from low-quality, cheap Bamboo. If you choose even a medium-quality product, you don’t have to worry as much about the cons.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is the top choice for most Miami homeowners. However, it’s one of the most expensive options. Prices range from $2 to $25 per square foot. On top of that, you also have other factors, such as professional installation, grade, and quality.

You can find both engineered and solid hardwood flooring. Solid hardwood costs more because it comes as one whole piece of wood. The thickness often varies. Plus, you can refinish or sand it because it’s natural wood. Common types include Birch, White Oak, Red Oak, Douglas Fir, Cherry, Pine, and Beech.

Engineered wood, by comparison, is cheaper because it’s manufactured with wood veneer and then layered. The grains are often laid in various direction, so it handles humidity and is stable. However, you can’t refinish or sand it as much as you can with natural wood.

Pros:

• Looks great
• Highly durable
• Mostly comfortable to walk on 
• Visually adds warmth to space
• Various refinishing options

Cons:

• Isn’t water-resistant
• Requires a lot of maintenance
• Often can’t clean with regular products
• More expensive than others

Cabinetry

New Single Cabinet 

The cost for making your kitchen cabinets varies based on many things. Typically, you can expect to spend $886 to $1,077 for a single cabinet, including materials and labor. However, professional installation costs more.

In a sense, the installation accounts for about 75 percent of your budget. Though you can build and install the cabinets yourself, it’s an enormous undertaking, and most people don’t want to do it.

Pros:

• Create a storage solution that meets your needs and space
• Get a perfect fit
• Have complete control over functionality and appearance

Cons:

• Significantly higher prices
• It can be hard to find replacements for custom-built cabinets

Kitchen Base Cabinets

Base kitchen cabinets are found under the countertops and can be used for pans, pots, small appliances, and more. Typically, homeowners want to save money on their remodeling project, so they choose to replace the base cabinets instead of all of them.

In general, you can expect to pay $250 to $400 per linear foot. However, the average cost for kitchen base cabinets in Miami is about $325 per linear foot.

Various factors can influence the total cost of installation. For example, the type of configuration you choose can impact prices. If you have them custom-built, it costs more, but it can be less if you have an assembled base. Since prices are based on linear foot, the size and number of cabinets required can also change the price.

Typically, the average base cabinet measures about 36 inches tall and 24 inches deep. You may need to increase/decrease the depth to meet your needs.

Pros:

• Significant impact on the functionality of the space
• Better appearance and feel for the area
• Adds value to the home (great selling point)

Cons:

• High cost
• May require new top cabinets so everything matches

Tall Kitchen Cabinets 

Tall kitchen cabinets are usually referred to as utility cabinets or pantries, and they’re in almost every Miami kitchen. There are standard and custom sizes available. Generally, tall kitchen cabinets are about 84 inches tall, but they can go as high as 96 inches. Since they are so tall, you can store mops and brooms in them. Plus, they can have shelves so that you can keep your canned and boxed goods.

On average, tall kitchen cabinets cost between $300 and $500 per linear foot. The costs associated with them include materials, labor, tools, and supplies. You can find various materials to use, such as plastic laminate, stainless steel, and wood. Stains cost less than painted cabinets, and it takes about two hours to install them.

Though hardwood is the top choice, many homeowners go with plywood, MDF, and particleboard when possible to cut the price. A professional Miami contractor can also add laminate to the materials to make them stain-resistant.

Pros:

• More storage space
• Can add shelves throughout to hold food and cookware
• Can omit shelves and can store cleaning supplies, mops, and brooms so that they’re out of the way

Cons:

• It can be hard to navigate when shelved
• If they’re too tall, it’s hard to see everything inside
• Usually custom-made to fit your home so that they can cost more

Custom Kitchen Cabinets

If you want to give your kitchen a real makeover, it’s great to replace your old cabinets with new ones. Custom kitchen cabinets are the 2021 way to add character to space and get things to the correct size. 

It costs between $12,000 and $40,000 total to get new custom kitchen cabinets. However, there are various factors to consider. For example, the number of cabinets you want and the size impacts the total price. Sometimes, companies charge less for each cabinet as you increase the number you need.

Materials can also impact the cost. Custom cabinets made of cherry wood are going to be more expensive than those made of particleboard. The accessories you choose can also affect the price. You also have to think about where you live; if the materials are hard to come by, Special materials must import them.

Common materials for custom cabinets include laminate, exotic wood, premium wood, and MDF. 

Pros:

• Endless possibilities (you choose shape, size, and style)
• Do things that you can’t otherwise accomplish with stock cabinets
• More home value (great selling point)
• Can accommodate unique needs (wheelchair accessible)

Cons:

• Higher price tag
• With tailored and unique features, it can be harder to sell the house later.

Countertops

Ceramic Tile Countertops

Those who want elegant or classic countertops for a fraction of the price should consider ceramic tile. They cost between $4 and $8 per square foot. However, labor, materials, and tools can boost the price significantly.

Pros:

• Durable
• Resistant to acid and heat
• Inexpensive
• Various colors and styles
• Customizable to meet your needs

Cons:

• Can crack or break if hit with a falling object
• Can’t repair broken tiles
• Hard to clean grout joints
• Can become discolored

Acrylic Countertops

Acrylic countertops used to be very popular, but they’re not so much now. However, new technology allows them to use various textures, patterns, and colors to mimic expensive materials. 

You can expect to pay $12 to $23 per square foot for the tiles. However, other supplies are needed, including fasteners, adhesives, and backing boards.

Pros:

• Can customize them for space
• Nonporous (great for hygiene and safety)
• Easy to maintain and clean
• It doesn’t need to be sealed
• Long warranties offered
• It can be sanded and buffed
• Stain-resistant
• Repels moisture and mold

Cons:

• Must be installed by professionals or warranty is voided
• Can’t withstand heat well (might leave burn marks)
• Can become discolored
• Seams can rise up

Formica Countertops

Formica is a brand name covering many laminate products. The company offers a countertop line. This can change the cost you pay. Variations and qualities can make the project more expensive. Typically, you can expect to spend $16 to $28 per square foot, and the classic series offers 50 patterns.

Pros:

• It can be customized to meet your needs
• Easy to install
• Low cost
• It can be painted to change the style

Cons:

• Damage prone
• Can lower home’s value

Laminate Countertops

Plastic laminate is an excellent choice for your countertops. About 75 percent of all homes in the US have this option. They’re produced with layers of paper and melamine bonds/resin with high pressure. Plus, they can be manufactured in bulk to save money. Then, the laminated sheets are glued to particleboard. You’re allowed to customize them with various patterns and colors, too.

On average, they cost between $25 and $36 per square foot. This rarely includes installation and other factors.

Pros:

• Less expensive than others
• Resists stains and grease
• Easy to clean with soap and water
• Resistant to dings and dents from heavy objects
• Various colors and patterns for decorating
• Simple installation

Cons:

• Can’t withstand high heat (from a pan)
• Can melt or scorch
• Must replace damaged laminate sections
• It might appear dated after a few years
• High-gloss finish and dark color can show smudges and prints
• Not water-resistant

Bamboo Countertops

Bamboo is an eco-friendly material that Bamboo can use for many things, including countertops. It’s highly versatile and robust, and it grows back quickly. Therefore, it’s used for many things. Various factors can change the project cost for Bamboo. You can expect to pay between $30 and $80 per square foot.

Focus on the complexity and size of the job. Make sure you talk to the professional about the price and know what’s expected before starting the project.

Pros:

• Environmentally-friendly
• Highly durable
• Unique styling
• Relatively cheap to purchase and install when compared to other eco-friendly materials

Cons:

• Easily stained or damaged
• Requires constant maintenance (coating surface every few months with beeswax)
• Hard to clean

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops are the easiest and quickest way to upgrade your Miami kitchen. However, there are different options out there. It’s essential to understand how much the materials cost, installation, and delivery/shipping prices.

You should expect to pay anywhere from $34 to $63 per square foot. There are different grades so that the low-end products can cost less, and the high-end ones are costly. Most homeowners who choose solid-surface countertops go for a mid-range.

Pros:

• Highly durable
• Can handle a busy family for decades
• Seamless joints
• Nonporous surface
• It can be restored and repaired
• It can be easy to care for

Cons:

• Measurements have to be accurate and exact
• Should hire a contractor specializing in solid surface counter installation for best results
• Heavy to move and hold
• Not heat-resistant
• Susceptible to scratching and denting
• Can’t handle strong chemicals

Granite Countertops

Most Miami homeowners want to go with a natural stone countertop, and granite is the top choice. It’s quarried throughout the world and comes in various gradients and colors to add to the uniqueness and beauty. 

On average, granite countertops can be anywhere from $34 to $75 per square foot. It’s pretty expensive compared to others, but it’s worth the splurge for functionality and aesthetics.

Pros:

• Visually appealing
• Unique styles
• Adds value to the home
• Durable
• Heat resistant
• Stain-resistant

Cons:

• Porous material (must be sealed)
• Prone to cracks
• It can feel cold to the hands
• More expensive than other materials
• May see the seams
• Heavy and cumbersome to handle

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is one of the most underutilized materials in the world. Steatite is a metamorphic rock with various minerals in it. With time, those minerals get forged into the stone through pressure and heat. In a sense, it feels like you’re touching soap and has a silkiness to it. You can expect to pay between $36 and $100 per square foot, and that’s just for the material. It’s going to cost more for installation.

Pros:

• Beautiful material
• Unique because it’s a natural stone
• Soapstone isn’t porous, so it doesn’t hold bacteria or stain
• Easy to clean
• Durable
• Resists cracks
• Offers heat resistance
• Considered a green material

Cons:

• Soft surfaces lead to damage from dropped cookware and glasses
• Must choose a smooth finish to avoid scratching classes and china
• Few color choices
• Must be treated periodically with mineral oil
• More expensive to install

Engineered Quartz Countertops

For most homeowners in Miami, there’s no question of not choosing quartz countertops. They’re durable, trendy, and can raise your home’s value. However, engineered quartz countertops are pricey. You can expect to pay $38 to $55 per square foot, and that’s just for the material. When you add labor, installation, and rest, you could spend many thousands of dollars on the countertop alone.

Pros:

• Extremely beautiful
• More forgiving than granite
• Nonporous (hygienic because bacteria can’t get in the cracks)
• Can use soapy water to clean it
• Resistant to corrosion and stains
• It doesn’t chip easily
• It doesn’t require resurfacing and sealing each year
• No noticeable seams when using a matching backsplash
• Various colors available

Cons:

• Higher price
• It can be damaged from heat
• Extremely heavy (care needs to be taken when installing)
• It takes a long time to measure and order

Wilsonart Solid Surface Countertops

Wilsonart solid surface countertops are one type of laminate surface, and it was developed to be an alternative to granite. Since it’s engineered, you can get seamless joining. They’re primarily used in kitchens and use thermoforming, which matches the material’s sheets to create a three-dimensional backsplash that goes with the countertop. It’s trendy because of the various colors, patterns, and styles available. You can expect to pay $38 to $75 per square foot. However, there are also edging pieces, screws, wood backing, adhesives, and other items. Labor for installation is also something to consider.

Pros:

• More affordable than quartz or granite
• Has the appearance of quartz and granite
• Includes a matte finish
• Easy to maintain and clean
• It doesn’t show fingerprints or stains
• Can be refinished
• Pattern/color consistent throughout

Cons:

• Semi-gloss or gloss finishes require professional maintenance
• Not resistant to heat
• Easily scratched from abrasive cleansers and chopping food

Caesarstone Countertops

Caesarstone countertops are made from engineered quartz stone. It contains roughly 93 percent of natural quartz. Resins are also used to create a strong countertop. 

Typically, Caesarstone costs roughly $55 to $75 per square foot. However, you can also expect to pay up to $25 per square foot for labor. Average countertops are about 50 square feet total, giving you an idea of what you’re going to pay.

Pros:

• High resilience to sharp knives, hot dishes, and heavy items
• Water resistance
• Impact resistance
• Great flexural strength
• Can withstand cracks, scratches, mold, stains, and more
• It doesn’t require much maintenance
• It never has to be resealed or refinished
• Easy to clean
• Non-penetrable surface
• Often comes with an extended warranty

Cons:

• Very high costs
• Must be installed correctly so that seams match and edges look good
• Can chip if not installed properly
• Damage is possible from hot pans
• Not eco-friendly, though it’s made of natural stone

Marble Countertops

Those who want sophistication and beauty in the kitchen might want to consider marble. While the average cost can vary based on what you pick, how it’s installed, and where you live, it’s about $40 to $100 per square foot. Though installation must be factored in, most of the cost comes from the material.

Pros:

• Beautiful and unique
• Eco-friendly (natural stone)
• Increases property values
• It lasts a long time if maintained correctly

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Extremely heavy
• Can stain easily
• Could be delicate
• Can degrade with time

Paperstone Countertops

Paperstone is a green building material because it’s made from recycled paper. Plus, it uses natural resin to bond the fibers. Therefore, there’s no negative impact at all on the planet. Typically, it costs between $40 and $112 per square foot. As with many other materials, there is an essential quality, better quality, and high-end quality. You should also factor in labor costs.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly
• Food-safe
• Somewhat scratch-resistant
• Easy to fix nicks and scratches
• Heat-resistant up to 350 degrees
• Nonporous (inhibits bacterial growth)

Cons:

• It only comes in dark colors
• Can be damaged
• Paperstone countertops can see signs of wear as negative or positive
• Direct sunlight can alter colors and damage it
• Easy to scratch
• It should be sealed to preserve the look

Avonite Countertops

Solid-surface countertops were first made of acrylic as the primary alternative to natural stone and Formica. However, it’s also quite popular. Though you can find it for lower prices ($40), it can go as high as $140 per square foot. Typically, if you want to incorporate a sink, it’s going to cost more. Custom edging might also incur more fees.

Pros:

• Nonporous material (bacteria can’t grow on it)
• Rich colors that are visually appealing
• Many patterns to fit many home designs
• Sheets are shaped to meet different layout needs
• Can integrate backsplashes and sinks during the manufacturing process

Cons:

• Can be damaged from hot pots
• Cracks and expansion can occur
• Can’t cut on the countertop
• Scratching is possible if you use items that are harder than the counter.
• It might not hold up to chemicals
• Can appear plastic
• You can’t do it yourself

Onyx Countertops

There are plenty of countertop styles available, and onyx is growing in popularity. Primarily, it’s unique and beautiful because of the natural coloring. However, it can be more expensive because it’s a type of quartz.

Expect to pay $40 to $250 per square foot just for the materials. The slabs’ size and appearance, and grade are also going to matter when it comes to price.

Pros:

• Amazing look
• Increased home value
• It comes in many colors
• Easy to clean

Cons:

• Highly expensive
• It can be very brittle
• Unavoidable seams
• I can’t handle the heat at all
• Once damaged, A pro contractor can’t repair it (must replace the entire onyx piece)

Swanstone Countertops

Swanstone countertops are a durable option for homeowners who want solid-surface countertops. It is created from modified acrylic and natural materials. That way, you get something nonporous and heat-resistant. Typically, it costs between $41 and $63 per square foot, and there are many factors to consider, such as installation fees.

Pros:

• Reasonable price and affordable when it comes to solid-surface products
• Very resistant to heat
• Durable and resistant to impacts
• Can buff out major scratches
• Uniform and attractive appearance

Cons:

• More expensive than other materials
• Aren’t a DIY task and can be challenging to install
• It might not withstand extreme cold and lead to cracks

Corian Countertops

Corian solid-surface countertops are pretty inexpensive compared to others. If you want a durable surface that can stand the test of time, it’s an affordable choice. You can expect to pay between $41 and $65 per square foot. However, you have to pay for it to be fastened, anchored, and cut for the Cabinetry. Ultimately, though, it’s easy to install it compared to others.

Pros:

• Made in the USA
• Nonporous material, so easy to clean and hygienic
• Resistant to many food stains
• Resistant to bacteria, mildew, and mold
• Appears seamless
• The color pattern runs through the entire thickness
• Heat resistant to 212 degrees Fahrenheit
• Comparable in price to other materials
• Weather-resistant and can be used outside
• Various textures, practices, and colors

Cons:

• Made of plastic so can burn or melt
• Easily scratched by kitchen utensils
• Shouldn’t put hot pans directly on the counter
• Dullness occurs if the water is left to look on the surface
• Must use ammonia solution to maintain the shine
• Has to be installed by a professional or warranty is voided

Terrazzo Countertops

Many people choose the material for their countertop based on the cost, while others want something attractive and durable. While terrazzo isn’t a common material for your countertop, it is a unique choice. Since it’s a composite of granite, glass, marble, and more, it’s beautiful and worthy of your kitchen. Expect to pay $47 to $98 per square foot.

Pros:

• Unique and beautiful appearance
• Various colors throughout the piece, so it looks good in all settings
• Naturally durable
• Customization available
• Eco-friendly
• Scratch-resistant
• It can last up to 40 years or more

Cons:

• High price
• It might require higher shipping costs
• Must perform routine maintenance (sealing and cleaning)

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops aren’t the norm, but they’re becoming popular, even for upscale kitchens. Many architects and designers use this material because it’s attractive, hand-crafted, and durable. Plus, the colors and textures can vary, giving you a unique appearance. You should expect to pay anywhere from $55 to $185 per square foot.

Pros:

• Unique and visual attractiveness
• Freedom of expression (customization) with various tints, aggregates, and textures
• Bring out your artful flair

Cons:

• Requires more maintenance and care to prevent scratching and staining
• Regular waxing and resealing necessary
• Must avoid abrasives at all times

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is one of the most popular countertop materials. They can raise your home’s value, but they’re also durable and trendy. However, it can be expensive to have engineered quartz countertops. For the material alone, you can expect to pay $60 to $115 per square foot. It’s also going to cost a lot to install it.

Pros:

• Amazing beauty
• More forgiving than other materials
• Nonporous (naturally resilient to bacteria)
• Easy to clean
• Resists corrosion and stains
• It doesn’t easily chip
• No resealing or resurfacing each year
• Various colors available

Cons:

• Damage is possible
• Higher prices but comparable to other luxury countertops
• Easily damaged by heat
• It needs to be professional installed because it’s heavy

Zodiaq Countertops

Zodiaq counters are made using 93 percent quartz, so they have those properties, but they’re slightly cheaper. Typically, you can expect to pay $65 to $87 per square foot. The price you pay is based on the project size, style, and the professional who installs it.

Pros:

• Not prone to scratching
• Nonporous for easy cleaning
• Can be installed elsewhere in the house (along with kitchens)
• Less harmful to the environment to produce than others

Cons:

• It can be severely damaged from ink, bleach, and more
• Requires more care and maintenance than you might think

Limestone Countertops

Limestone is a bright and light building material, so it pairs well with most kitchens. It comes from a sedimentary rock with a high calcite concentration. You can find various colors because of the organic materials and clay. However, it isn’t expensive, and you could pay anywhere from $67 to $200 per square foot.

Pros:

• Aesthetically pleasing
• It can be as hard as granite (durable)
• It withstands many climates, including humid ones
• Heat-resistance
• Versatile and comes in many textures, sizes, and colors

Cons:

• Could stain
• Scratches might form
• Requires maintenance
• High cost

Glass Countertops

Glass countertops are a luxurious option for the kitchen. They come in various treatments, thicknesses, and colors so that you can achieve a unique look. Plus, it’s solid. However, you pay for those benefits, as it can range in price from $75 to $105 just for the material. Since it’s so intricate and heavy, it also requires professional installation.

Pros:

• Very heat resistant
• Withstands moisture
• Resistant to scratches, mold, and staining
• Easy to clean
• No sealing necessary
• Unique features 
• Customizable from patterns and colors
• Environmentally-friendly

Cons:

• More expensive than other materials
• Easy to see fingerprints, watermarks, and dirt
• Could break or chip under high pressure
• Scratching and etching possible if using corrosive or acidic materials
• Can’t use harsh cleaning products

Recycled Glass Countertops

Though relatively new on the market, recycled glass countertops bound with cement are a prevalent option. They use at least 85 percent of recycled glass materials. Then, they’re mixed with resin or cement to create a flat, smooth surface. If you want to be eco-friendly, though, it’s going to cost you. The average price range is from $75 to $106 per square foot.

Pros:

• Unique appearance
• Each slab is different
• Rainbow colors available
• Easy to maintain and clean
• Can withstand heat
• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Not tested for reliability and longevity
• Can make the home look dated 
• Could chip or crack
• Hard to find

Vetrazzo Countertops

Vetrazzo countertops are amazingly gorgeous, and they’re eco-friendly. Over 85 percent of the glass used is recycled or reused. That means the glass isn’t being tossed into the landfill. Instead, it’s harvested to create a unique surface. However, you should expect to pay $85 to $165 per square foot.

Pros:

• Breathtakingly artistic statement
• Great eye candy
• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• It could be scratched when using abrasive cleaners
• It can cost a lot more than budget-friendly options
• Requires a moderate amount of maintenance

Copper Countertops

Where countertops are concerned, copper is the most luxurious. Therefore, it’s one of the most expensive options. You can expect to pay $90 to $140 per square foot. On top of that, there are labor costs, which can go up to $2,500 for customization.

Pros:

• Bring elegance and beauty to your home
• Naturally antimicrobial (even if unfinished)
• Low maintenance
• It doesn’t need to be sealed
• Easy to clean
• Versatile and eco-friendly

Cons:

• High price
• It might not raise the home’s value
• Can change color with time
• Candent because it’s a soft metal

Backsplash

Subway Tile Backsplashes

Subway tiles are a favorite for Miami homeowners. This trend isn’t going to go away. The good news is they aren’t expensive. You can expect to pay between $6 to $14 per square foot.

Pros:

• Very trendy
• Low maintenance
• Nonporous (resistant to grease, water, and food)
• Heat resistant
• Moisture-resistant
• Highly durable
• Resists mold and bacteria 

Cons:

• Grout can get stained or discolored
• Hard to repair cracks and chips if colored or customized
• Can appear ‘cold’ for the room
• Poor acoustics

Tumbled Marble Backsplashes

Tumbled marble means that it was distressed from rocks, sand, water, and more. That way, it looks antique and rough. It’s beautiful, and it costs between $8 and $17 per square foot.

Pros:

• Aesthetically pleasing
• Elegant look
• Various patterns, finishes, textures, and colors
• Many sizes available
• Durable and suitable for the stove area

Cons:

• Must be sealed every year
• Could be damaged from abrasive sponges and cleaners
• Hard to repair one tile

Stone Backsplashes

Stone is a popular backsplash option. It’s classy and can update any space. Plus, it doesn’t cost as much as you might think. Expect to pay $8 to $17 per square foot.

Pros:

• Customized to your needs
• Very durable
• Many colors available

Cons:

• Very porous and must be sealed each year
• Could absorb stains
• It can be damaged by cleaning chemicals, abrasive tools, and grime
• It needs to be waxed monthly
• Easily stained grout

Glass Tile Backsplashes

Glass tile backsplashes are beautiful and unique. They’re available in many shapes and shades so that you can customize the appearance. They’re relatively inexpensive and costs between $9 and $18 per square foot.

Pros:

• Moisture-resistant
• Can withstand extreme temperatures
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Never discolors
• Reflects light

Cons:

• It can’t be repaired and must be replaced
• Grout could get stained or discolored
• Might reflect sound
• Quite heavy and needs to be reinforced

Stainless Steel Backsplashes

Stainless steel backsplashes are suitable because they blend with most designs and are durable. Plus, they’re easy to clean and have many other benefits. They cost between $12 and $20 per square foot.

Pros:

• Easy to clean
• It doesn’t require polishing to stay shiny
• Inexpensive for the most part
• Reflects light to make space look bigger

Cons:

• Can’t handle hot pans and pots
• It can easily get scratched or dented
• Discoloration is possible

Travertine Backsplashes

Travertine is elegant and long-lasting, so it makes a great backsplash. It’s modern and unique, but it can be pretty expensive. Expect to pay $20 to $30 per square foot.

Pros:

• Durable and strong
• Handles grease and other spills easily
• It doesn’t require much maintenance
• It comes in many styles and colors
• Great return on investment

Cons:

• Must be resealed every couple of years
• You can’t use acidic materials to clean it
• Installation can be pricey

Copper Backsplashes

If you want to add a rustic appeal to the kitchen, copper backsplashes are a great choice. It can become more profound and more beautiful with time. However, this comes at a price. Expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $49 per square foot.

Pros:

• Very beautiful
• Easy to maintain
• It can last a long time
• Heat-resistant

Cons:

• Can dent or scratch easily
• It could turn green with time

Mosaic Glass Tile Backsplashes

A mosaic glass tile backsplash is ideal if kids are in the house. It’s got many benefits, though the price can vary significantly. The average range is between $31 and $49 per square foot.

Pros:

• Hard to stain
• Easy to clean
• Very customizable

Cons:

• Hard to install
• It can be a challenge to repair

Granite Backsplashes

If you decide on a granite countertop, it’s good to choose the same material for the backsplash. It adds more style and ensures that it all flows together. Expect to spend $34 to $58 per square foot.

Pros:

• Offers natural beauty
• Unique
• Granite Backsplashes can’t scratch it easily

Cons:

• Costs a lot
• Porous, so A pro contractor must reseal it

Sink

Vessel Sink

A vessel sink is an excellent option for your kitchen. They sit above your counter and can cost between $80 to $300.

Pros:

• Various designs available
• Can add more storage space

Cons:

• It might not be as durable
• No counter edge, so there could be chips and cracks

Under-mount Sink

An under-mount sink is a popular option for kitchens. They offer a seamless look that complements the countertop. However, you can expect to spend $167 to $236 per square foot.

Pros:

• Aesthetically appealing
• Adds value to the home
• Offers functionality
• Easy to clean
• Can put faucet almost anywhere

Cons:

• More expensive than drop-in sinks
• Hard to repair and replace
• Water could spill to the countertop
• Could fall with time if not correctly installed

Kitchen Labor Costs for Miami

You may be slightly in shock right now. However, the materials are going to be about 70 percent of the total budget. The rest is going to include miscellaneous expenses and labor. That’s why we believe an average Miami kitchen renovation can cost about $12,500.

Miami Kitchen Renovations – Cost Factors

Though labor and materials take up most of the project, there are other factors you should consider. These things can also affect the price you pay:

1. Materials

Some materials are bound to cost more than others. For example, Formica countertops can be about $16 per square foot, while Corian is up to $64 per square foot. If you choose cheaper materials, it’s going to help lower costs.

2. Labor

There isn’t a standard price for labor. Some Miami kitchen contractors charge more than others. Experience often plays a part, so you may want to pay a little extra to have someone who knows what they’re doing.

3. Kitchen Size

Most of the materials are priced by square foot. Therefore, the total price for materials depends on the size of your kitchen. If it’s bigger, it’s going to cost more.

4. Neighborhood

Location matters for your kitchen remodel. If you plan to live & work in Miami for many years to come, try to figure out what your neighbors spend on remodeling projects. Those who want to sell soon don’t need an extravagant kitchen because it could raise potential buyers’ prices.

5. Longevity 

You should see a return on your remodeling investment. Ultimately, you probably aren’t going to recoup 100 percent of the money you spend. Therefore, you shouldn’t spend more than about 15 percent of the home’s value if you plan to sell soon. Otherwise, you can splurge a bit more.

6. Budget

Before doing anything else, know how much you can spend on the kitchen renovation.

7. Trends

Trends can change at any time. Make sure you’re choosing materials that are sure to stay in style.

Common Kitchen Renovation Projects in Miami

There are plenty of ways to renovate the kitchen. If you have a limited budget, consider the list below to decide what you can do now:

• Faucet installation – $170 to $250
• Cabinet Repair – $180 to $350
• Countertop Repair – $245 to $500
• Sink Installation – $340 to $800
• Flooring Repair – $450 to $850
• Flooring Installation – $1,700 to $2,800
• Cabinet Refinishing – $1,800 to $3,000
• Countertop Installation – $2,000 to $3,000
• Cabinet Installation – $2,200 to $4,300

Find Miami Kitchen Contractors

The cost for remodeling a Miami kitchen is bound to go up. Inflation is constantly rising. Therefore, it’s essential to keep costs lower as much as possible while creating the perfect kitchen for your home.

Schwalb Builders in Miami are here to help