Kitchen remodel

It would be better to ask the two contractors who gave you the estimates to clarify their position on the walls. You can tell each contractor what the other said. They will then have a chance to defend their position and reconsider their quotes. Try to get each to give you a quote based on ripping vs. not ripping out the walls.

Are you changing or adding any appliances? Some older buildings require that existing plumbing/services be upgraded. If so, perhaps that is what the first GC is referring to. I'm not trying to sell you design/architectural services but GCs can take advantage of people who don't know the ins and outs. I'm happy to answer any questions to may have. We've been through this kind of thing a thousand times. Michael.. www.ix-dc.com

Lots of time contractors make additional work for them-self just to be able to charge more. I'm pretty sure your walls don't need to be ripped out since you already have cabinets on and you're not changing configuration. The only reason you would need your walls ripped out is if the walls are in bad condition or if there is not enough support for the cabinets. Since you have cabinets hanging on your wall most likely there is no issues just taking them off and replacing with new ones.

The quotes are 15k for ripping vs 4k for not. This does not include any material like cabinets and appliances.

Sunday is right, telling each contractor about other quotes that you received will show that you are not willing to settle for just about any price.

Hofo,

Generally we open the wall at the base cabinets to bring all the plumbing back to the risers, if the building (most do) requires us to do so. We usually do not have to open the walls for the uppers. That is a very big difference in price. It can't be that much more to open the walls. Are you sure both contractors are bidding on the same scope besides the walls?Is one including items that the other isn't (countertops?)

Doesn't make sense to rip out walls to replace cabinets. If the building requires all the plumbing back to risers then "yes" base cabinets wall must be sacrificed. If not all the walls should not be touched. Give a call to Julio Bonete of Bonete Renovation (http://www.boneterenovation.com), he's built out several cabinet installations for my investment rentals. His email is bonete.julio@gmail.com or try him at 718-781-9904.

Adam K.

Primer, no cabinets or countertop was included in the quotes. In fact the more expensive guy kept telling me to buy high end appliances and cabinets from a few of his vendors. But the kitchen is only
10 x 5, not worth the budget to me.

In terms of the plumbing, what does it mean to bring it back to the riser? Does it cost thousands to do this and how long does it take to do so? I am completely lost with home remodeling.

Hofo

15K too much for cabinet installation.(Even with plumbing)
4K is seems more reasonable but like the others said check their scope of work

www.renovationcostny.com

"what does it mean to bring it back to the riser . . . Does it cost thousands?" This means that the branch copper plumbing lines in the wall are replaced back to the main vertical hot and cold water lines runing up the building. Many buildings, especally pre-war co-ops, require that this be done in any bath or kitchen remodel.

And, yes it is expensive; low "thousands" is probably right.

Hofo,

If you are in the city and want me to stop by and tell you what can and should be done I would. This project is a little too small for me to do but i would be happy to help you.

You can email me at primerenovations@mac.com

Replacing the branch lines should be anywhere from 1200-2000

Just finished $14K renovation, Tribeca style cabinets, quartz counter top, mosaic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, porcelain floor tiles, plaster/paint, light fixture, all included in price and fit into 71" x 40" space.
Check out the photo www.arxconstructioncorp.com/projects/404e66th.jpg

Hofo,
Agree 100% with Sunday's comment comparing apples to apples, otherwise you will remain confused and stressed by your relatively straight forward project. If you would like a 3rd bidder if these guys don't play by your rules please e-mail me stephen@capitalcraftsmen.com