Renovating a laundry room is more than swapping out appliances or giving the walls a fresh coat of paint. It’s about creating a functional, stylish space that makes daily chores easier, adds value to your home, and stands the test of time. For homeowners in Knoxville, partnering with a trusted general home remodeling contractor Knoxville TN can ensure a well-executed renovation that blends reliability, performance, and aesthetic appeal. But one of the most common questions is: how much does a laundry renovation cost? Let’s break it down step by step.
1. Factors That Influence Laundry Renovation Costs
The cost of a laundry renovation varies widely depending on several factors. Understanding these variables helps homeowners plan their budget realistically.
a. Size of the space
Small laundry closets or narrow rooms typically cost less to renovate.
Larger laundry rooms with space for additional storage, folding areas, or utility sinks naturally increase labor and material costs.
b. Scope of the renovation
Cosmetic updates such as painting, replacing cabinetry, or new flooring are more affordable than full-scale remodels that include plumbing and electrical work.
Structural changes, like relocating plumbing or adding new appliances, can significantly raise the price.
c. Materials and finishes
Countertops, cabinetry, flooring, and backsplash choices impact costs. For example, laminate counters are cheaper than quartz, and vinyl flooring is less expensive than tile or hardwood.
Choosing durable, high-performance finishes ensures longevity, which is often a better investment than cutting corners.
d. Appliances and fixtures
High-efficiency washers, dryers, utility sinks, and smart appliances add to the budget but improve usability and energy savings.
Plumbing fixtures, faucets, and laundry-specific cabinetry also influence cost.
e. Labor and contractor expertise
Hiring a trusted, well-experienced general home remodeling contractor in Knoxville TN ensures quality work and minimizes the risk of costly mistakes.
Contractors may charge a flat fee or hourly rate, depending on the complexity of the project.
2. Average Cost Ranges
Laundry renovation costs typically fall into three categories: budget, mid-range, and high-end renovations.
a. Budget renovations ($1,500–$5,000)
Cosmetic updates: paint, minor flooring changes, shelving, and cabinet hardware.
Keeping existing appliances and layout intact.
b. Mid-range renovations ($5,000–$15,000)
New cabinetry, countertops, and flooring.
Updated plumbing or electrical work to accommodate new appliances.
High-efficiency washer and dryer units.
c. High-end renovations ($15,000–$30,000+)
Full layout redesign including relocating plumbing and electrical.
Luxury finishes such as quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end appliances.
Addition of utility sinks, built-in ironing boards, or laundry islands for folding and storage.
3. Cost Breakdown by Key Components
Cabinetry and Storage
Prefabricated cabinets: $500–$2,000
Custom cabinetry: $2,500–$7,000
Countertops
Laminate: $50–$100 per square foot
Quartz or granite: $75–$200 per square foot
Flooring
Vinyl or laminate: $3–$8 per square foot
Tile: $5–$15 per square foot
Appliances
Washer: $400–$1,200
Dryer: $400–$1,500
Plumbing and Electrical
Minor updates: $500–$1,500
Major rerouting or new connections: $2,000–$5,000
Labor
Experienced remodeling contractor labor: $50–$100 per hour, depending on complexity
4. Ways to Optimize Costs
Keep the existing layout to minimize plumbing and electrical work.
Choose durable but cost-effective finishes for high-traffic areas.
Shop for appliance bundles to save on washer and dryer purchases.
Plan the renovation with your contractor to phase work efficiently, reducing labor overlap.
5. Real-World Example: Knoxville Laundry Renovation
A homeowner in Knoxville partnered with MEL Realty Repairs LLC, a trusted general home remodeling contractor in Knoxville TN, to remodel their 8×10-foot laundry room. The project included:
Replacing the laminate countertops with quartz for durability
Installing custom cabinetry for better storage
Adding a new utility sink and high-efficiency washer and dryer
Updating flooring with water-resistant tile
The total renovation cost was approximately $12,500, which fell into the mid-range category. Post-renovation, the space not only functioned more efficiently but also added value to the home and became a key selling point when the homeowners decided to list the property later.
6. Tips for a Successful Laundry Renovation
Hire a reliable contractor: Partnering with a trusted, well-experienced general home remodeling contractor in Knoxville TN ensures work is done correctly and on time.
Plan ahead: Decide on appliances, finishes, and layout before starting work.
Consider long-term durability: Choose materials and finishes that resist moisture and wear.
Budget for contingencies: Allocate an additional 10–15% of your budget for unexpected expenses.
Focus on usability: Include functional storage, counter space, and workflow efficiency.
Summary & Takeaway
The cost of a laundry renovation depends on the size, scope, materials, and labor involved. Budget projects can start around $1,500, mid-range renovations can reach $15,000, and high-end designs may exceed $30,000. By working with a trusted general home remodeling contractor in Knoxville TN, such as MEL Realty Repairs LLC, homeowners can achieve a functional, stylish, and long-lasting laundry space that adds value to their home while remaining within budget. Proper planning, durable materials, and efficient workflow design are the keys to a successful renovation.
