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What's Behind the Walls
Kitchen plumbing is straightforward unless you're moving things. Relocating a sink or adding an ice maker line to a refrigerator that didn't have one are both common additions — and both are much easier (and cheaper) to do while walls are already open.
If your home has older galvanized pipes behind the walls, a remodel is the right time to replace them. Your contractor will flag anything that needs attention during the initial walkthrough.
Moving drain lines requires cutting into the concrete. It's doable — but it's a cost factor worth discussing before finalizing your layout.
If there's an active leak or water damage driving your remodel, EverHome can connect you with a contractor quickly. Protecting the structure comes first — the remodel plan follows.
What California Code Requires
Kitchens have the most demanding electrical requirements of any room. A remodel is often when homeowners discover their panel doesn't have the capacity for what a modern kitchen needs.
Countertop Circuits
Two dedicated 20-amp circuits along the countertop for small appliances � required by California code for every kitchen remodel.
Dedicated Appliance Circuits
Separate dedicated circuits for the refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and garbage disposal. Each major appliance needs its own power source.
GFCI Protection
GFCI outlets on all countertop receptacles near the sink � these cut power instantly if moisture is detected, preventing electrical hazards.
Important: If your kitchen predates these requirements, bringing it up to code is part of the job � not an upsell. Your contractor will assess the panel early and let you know if an upgrade is needed.
The Largest Line Item in Your Kitchen
Hardwood
Premium and built to last. Solid construction, can be refinished or repainted. Cherry, maple, and oak are common choices in SoCal.
Shaker Style
The most versatile and popular right now — clean recessed panel doors that work with modern, transitional, and farmhouse aesthetics.
MDF
Practical for painted cabinets. Holds paint exceptionally well and doesn't expand/contract with humidity. Not ideal for stained finishes.
Refacing
If your cabinet boxes are solid, new doors, drawer fronts, and veneer over existing boxes gives a completely new look for a fraction of replacement cost.
The Surface That Defines Your Kitchen
Whatever material you choose, the subwood underneath has to be right. The substrate must be level and structurally sound — damaged or inadequate subwood gets replaced first. This is non-negotiable.
Quartz — Most practical and popular. Engineered stone, non-porous, doesn't need sealing. Most homeowners choose quartz and don't look back.
Granite — Natural stone with unique veining. Durable and heat-resistant. Needs periodic sealing.
Marble — Stunning but high maintenance. Porous and prone to etching from acids.
Butcher Block — Adds warmth. Requires regular oiling. Great as island or prep area.
Laminate — Has come a long way. A smart budget choice that works well in rental properties or secondary kitchens.
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Choose Based on How You Live — Not Just How It Looks
Flooring is where a lot of homeowners make decisions they later regret — usually by choosing based on looks alone without thinking about the kitchen environment.
Tile
Most durable and water-resistant. Easy to clean, holds up to heavy traffic. The tradeoff — hard underfoot and cold. Grout lines require maintenance.
Hardwood / Engineered
Brings warmth and character. Engineered hardwood is smarter for kitchens — real wood veneer over a moisture-resistant core gives you the look with better durability.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
The most popular choice. Waterproof, comfortable underfoot, dozens of styles mimicking wood and stone, and significantly more affordable.
Large-Format Tile
Trending in modern kitchens. Fewer grout lines, cleaner look, easier maintenance. Requires a very level subfloor to install correctly.
Laminate
Budget-friendly and has improved dramatically in quality. Not waterproof, so it's better suited for dry areas — not ideal directly in front of a sink or dishwasher where water exposure is likely.
All flooring: The subfloor must be level, structurally sound, and appropriate for the material going on top. If it's not, it gets addressed before installation — no shortcuts.
Installed to Code as Part of the Project
Your contractor can source and install appliances as part of the remodel — refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, microwaves, and more. Everything installed to code, no separate deliveries around an active job site.
Depending on your income and utility provider, you may qualify for rebates on energy-efficient appliances. Your contractor will identify what's available in your area before the project starts.
Get Matched With a ContractorGrants, Rebates & Financing Options
Energy Efficiency Programs
- SCE Energy Savings Assistance — Income-qualified customers may receive free appliance upgrades including refrigerators and dishwashers.
- HEEHRA / IRA Rebates — Up to $8,000 for income-eligible households upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.
- ENERGY STAR Federal Rebates — Electric stoves, cooktops, and ranges may qualify for rebates up to $840.
For Veterans
- VA HISA Grant — Up to $6,800 for medically necessary kitchen modifications such as accessible counters or sink modifications.
- SAH / SHA Grants — For veterans with more extensive service-connected disability needs.
Seniors & Low-Income
- USDA Section 504 — Grants up to $10,000 for homeowners 62+ with very low income.
- CalHome Program — California's state rehab program covering kitchen remodels for qualifying homeowners.
- HUD CDBG Programs — Local programs vary by city.
EverHome financing is also available — $0 down payment for those who don't qualify for grants.
The Wall Conversation Is Important
Any kitchen remodel that touches plumbing, electrical, or walls will require a permit. That's not a hurdle — it's protection. Permitted work is inspected, documented, and adds value when you sell.
Non-Load-Bearing Walls
Can be removed with a standard building permit. Opening up a kitchen is one of the most impactful changes you can make.
Load-Bearing Walls
Require an engineer's assessment, a structural plan, and city approval before demolition begins. No exceptions.
Note: Permit fees vary by city and scope — typically $200 to $2,500. Confirmed upfront before anything starts.
Ready to Transform Your Kitchen?
Tell us about your kitchen and we'll connect you with a licensed specialist who knows the work, knows the code, and gives you straight answers from day one.