Hiring Guides

How to Choose a Kitchen Remodeler in Denver (2025)

A kitchen remodel is the largest single home improvement most Denver homeowners undertake. It involves cabinets, countertops, plumbing, electrical, flooring, and often structural work — all coordinated under one contract. Choosing the right contractor is critical.

Find Kitchen Remodeling in Denver

Key Takeaways

  • 1
    Verify Denver city contractor license and licensed plumbing/electrical subcontractors
  • 2
    Ask specifically about cabinet box construction — plywood vs. particleboard matters
  • 3
    Any remodel over $25,000 should include a 3D design phase before construction
  • 4
    Contract must specify every material by brand, product, and finish
  • 5
    Get 3 references from completed Denver kitchens and call them

Licensing and Accountability

Colorado doesn't require a state GC license for kitchen remodeling, but Denver requires a city contractor license. All plumbing and electrical subcontractors must hold Colorado state trade licenses.

Ask: Who is responsible if there's a problem with the tile work? With the plumbing? The answer should always be 'we are' — not 'you'll need to contact the tile sub.'

The Cabinet Question

Cabinets represent 30–35% of a kitchen remodel budget. Ask: Are these stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets? What is the box construction — plywood vs. particleboard?

Plywood box construction is significantly more durable than particleboard — especially important in Denver's humidity swings. Reputable remodelers specify this in writing.

Design Process and 3D Rendering

Any kitchen remodel over $25,000 should include a design phase with 3D renderings before work begins. This catches layout problems and appliance conflicts before they become expensive construction changes.

Change orders during construction are expensive. A thorough design phase prevents most of them.

Kitchen Remodel Contract Essentials

A proper contract must specify: cabinet brand, line, door style, and finish; countertop material, thickness, and edge profile; appliance brands and model numbers; flooring material; backsplash tile; permit responsibility; milestone payment schedule; and minimum 1-year labor warranty.

Red Flags Specific to Kitchen Remodelers

No design phase for projects over $25,000. Can't provide references from completed Denver kitchens. Requests more than 30% upfront. Doesn't pull permits for electrical, plumbing, or structural work. Vague allowances without clear overage terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a good kitchen remodeler in Denver?

Check Google reviews, Houzz portfolios, and Angi. Ask for references from completed Denver kitchen projects in the past 12 months. Verify Denver city contractor license.

What should a kitchen remodel contract include?

Cabinet brand and specifications, countertop material and edge, appliance models, flooring, backsplash tile, permit responsibility, milestone payment schedule, and a 1-year labor warranty minimum.

How long does a kitchen remodel take in Denver?

A mid-range kitchen remodel takes 6–10 weeks from demo to completion. Custom cabinetry lead times add 4–8 weeks. Full gut renovations with structural work can take 12–16 weeks.

Should I hire a kitchen specialist or a general contractor?

Both can deliver excellent results. What matters is accountability — whoever you hire should be responsible for all trades under one contract.