Introduction Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an old kitchen is more than just a cosmetic update, it’s a deep, often complex process that involves dealing with outdated materials, obsolete systems, and hidden structural issues that may have been masked by time. While the charm of an older home is undeniable, original cabinetry, handcrafted woodwork, and historic layouts, the kitchen is often the first space homeowners want to modernize. That’s because it’s also one of the most heavily used areas of the home and, unfortunately, one of the least updated in older properties. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
At MGS Contracting Services, we specialize in transforming outdated kitchens into modern, functional, and safe spaces while honoring the character of the home. But make no mistake, upgrading an old kitchen comes with a unique set of challenges that homeowners must be aware of before jumping into demolition or design. Unlike newer builds, older kitchens may not have been constructed to today’s structural, electrical, or plumbing standards. Behind that vintage tile or under that dated linoleum, there could be issues like water damage, uneven subflooring, or knob-and-tube wiring that require immediate attention. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Before you begin selecting cabinets or browsing countertop options, it’s critical to understand the renovation from a foundational perspective. The planning stage is not just about choosing finishes, it’s about identifying risks, assessing existing systems, and creating a realistic renovation roadmap that includes both visible upgrades and behind-the-walls improvements. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
This blog will walk you through five key things every homeowner should know before upgrading an old kitchen, based on years of experience and real-world renovation insight from our team at MGS Contracting Services. These are not generic tips, they’re the practical, often overlooked truths that can make or break your renovation timeline and budget.
By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of: Upgrading an Old Kitchen
- Why budgeting for surprises is non-negotiable, Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an Old Kitchen - What to expect when bringing your electrical and plumbing up to modern code, Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an Old Kitchen - How structural quirks like out-of-level floors can affect every layer of your project, and Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an Old Kitchen - Why subfloor stability is just as important as surface finishes when planning your new kitchen.
Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Whether you’re renovating a 1950s rambler or updating a farmhouse kitchen built in the early 1900s, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and foresight to tackle the renovation confidently, and with fewer surprises along the way.
Let’s dive into the five essential things you need to know before upgrading an old kitchen. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
CREDIT: DOMINO MAG
1. Budget for Unforeseen Issues Upgrading an Old Kitchen
One of the most important, and most underestimated, parts of upgrading an old kitchen is budgeting for the unknown. While homeowners often focus on visible upgrades like countertops, cabinetry, and appliances, the hidden costs lurking behind the walls and under the floor can derail even the best-laid plans if not accounted for early on.
Allocate a Generous Contingency Fund Upgrading an Old Kitchen
At MGS Contracting Services, we recommend that every homeowner preparing for a kitchen renovation in an older home sets aside 10% to 20% of their total budget strictly for unforeseen issues. This contingency fund isn’t optional, it’s a safety net that ensures the project can move forward even when unexpected repairs arise. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Why so much? Because in older homes, surprises aren’t the exception, they’re the rule. Many of these homes were built using outdated construction methods, substandard materials (by today’s codes), or quick fixes that were fine decades ago but won’t meet current standards or performance needs. Without a financial buffer, even minor setbacks can stall a project or force uncomfortable compromises in finishes, design, or safety. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Expect Hidden Structural Surprises Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an old kitchen means removing layers of history, literally. Beneath aging tile, behind walls covered in paneling or plaster, and under that old linoleum, you’ll often find structural concerns that have been hidden for years or even decades. These might include: Upgrading an Old Kitchen
- Uneven or sagging floors that require shimming, re-framing, or entirely new joists. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an Old Kitchen - Water damage from past plumbing leaks, sometimes hidden by cabinets or appliances. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an Old Kitchen - Mold or rot within wall cavities or flooring, especially around sinks or exterior walls. Upgrading an Old Kitchen
- Outdated or damaged framing that can’t support new cabinetry, tile, or appliances.
- Old insulation or lack thereof, leading to poor energy efficiency and potential health risks.
Homeowners are frequently surprised when a simple flooring update turns into a full subfloor replacement, or when a cabinet removal reveals deteriorated drywall or framing that needs reinforcement. These issues aren’t glamorous, but they’re essential to fix before proceeding with the rest of the renovation.
Flexibility Is Key
Even the most carefully planned renovation can encounter bumps in the road. What starts as a straightforward project, like replacing old floors or installing new cabinetry, can quickly become more complex when the work begins. For example:
- You may pull up flooring only to discover that the subfloor is soft, rotted, or no longer level.
- Wall removal or rerouting plumbing may expose outdated electrical or termite damage.
- Relocating appliances could mean adding new outlets, circuits, or water lines you didn’t anticipate.
When you’re upgrading an old kitchen, the only constant is change. Flexibility in both mindset and budget will help reduce stress and prevent costly delays. It allows you to make smart decisions on the fly and maintain momentum without compromising quality or safety.
Invest in a Thorough Initial Inspection
While surprises can never be entirely eliminated, many can be anticipated with a professional assessment before demolition begins. At MGS Contracting Services, we always recommend a pre-renovation inspection to evaluate:
- The condition and structure of the floor system
- The age and layout of plumbing and electrical systems
- Signs of moisture intrusion or wood rot
- Adequacy of insulation and ventilation
- Compliance with current building codes
This initial step is essential to creating a realistic and informed renovation plan. It allows our team to flag any likely risks early, incorporate corrective measures into the scope of work, and provide homeowners with a more transparent cost and timeline.
Budgeting for Peace of Mind
Think of your contingency budget not as extra money, but as a way to protect the integrity and momentum of your renovation. When these unexpected issues arise, and they will, you’ll be able to move forward with confidence, knowing you’re financially prepared to handle them without cutting corners.
Upgrading an old kitchen is an investment in the safety, function, and future value of your home. A contingency fund is not just a budgeting tactic, it’s a strategic move that keeps your vision on track, your finances intact, and your renovation stress levels under control.
2. Update the Electrical System
When upgrading an old kitchen, one of the most critical, and potentially hazardous, areas that must not be overlooked is the electrical system. While modern kitchen remodels often focus on design elements like cabinetry and layout, the truth is that many older homes were built under outdated electrical standards that no longer support today’s appliances, lighting, or safety regulations.
At MGS Contracting Services, we’ve seen firsthand how electrical systems in older homes often become a hidden risk and a major barrier to progress. Without proper evaluation and upgrading, your renovated kitchen could not only fall short of code requirements, but also present real dangers like circuit overload, shocks, or even fire hazards.
Outdated Wiring and Panels: A Common Problem in Older Kitchens
Most older homes, especially those built before the 1980s, were designed with far fewer electrical demands in mind. These homes typically feature:
- Two-prong ungrounded outlets, which lack the safety measures of modern grounded outlets.
- Knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum wiring, which is not only outdated but often deteriorated or poorly spliced over time.
- Limited circuit capacity, unable to handle the demands of today’s refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and other high-load appliances.
- Old fuse boxes or undersized breaker panels, which can pose a serious fire risk and limit any ability to expand your electrical service.
If you’re planning on installing modern appliances, under-cabinet lighting, or multiple outlets for convenience, your existing system simply won’t cut it.
Grounded Outlets and GFCI Protection: Modern Safety Must-Haves
In any kitchen renovation, safety comes first. That’s why MGS Contracting Services strongly recommends upgrading all outlets, switches, and wiring in an older kitchen to meet modern code requirements.
One of the most important safety features is the GFCI outlet (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), which is now required by code for any outlet located near water, such as those on kitchen countertops, near the sink, or in wet zones. GFCIs help prevent electric shock by instantly shutting off power if a ground fault is detected. Older homes rarely have these installed, leaving the kitchen vulnerable.
Additionally, grounded outlets are now standard in all new homes. These three-prong outlets protect both people and appliances by channeling excess electricity safely into the ground during a surge. If your home still uses outdated two-prong outlets, those must be replaced as part of any responsible kitchen upgrade.
Panel Upgrades and Additional Circuits
As part of upgrading an old kitchen, many homeowners find that their existing electrical panel is insufficient. This is especially common in homes where:
- The panel is rated under 100 amps.
- There are no open slots to add new circuits.
- The breakers frequently trip or the wiring is poorly labeled and disorganized.
- The panel itself is outdated or no longer supported by manufacturers (e.g., Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels, which are now considered fire risks).
Adding appliances like a built-in oven, induction cooktop, or even a garbage disposal requires dedicated circuits, each with its own breaker. If your current panel can’t support this, it will need to be upgraded or replaced entirely. This is not just a matter of convenience, it’s a legal requirement to meet code and ensure long-term electrical stability and safety.
At MGS Contracting Services, we work with licensed electricians to evaluate your current panel, calculate the electrical load of your new kitchen, and upgrade your panel or sub-panel accordingly.
Code Compliance Isn’t Optional, It’s Essential
Building codes exist for a reason: to keep you and your family safe. And while some cosmetic shortcuts may go unnoticed, electrical code violations can put your home at serious risk and create liability issues when selling or insuring the property.
Common code upgrades required when upgrading an old kitchen include:
- Installing tamper-resistant receptacles.
- Using arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) for certain branch circuits.
- Ensuring all wiring is properly sized and grounded.
- Replacing junction boxes that are too small or not properly covered.
- Securing wiring runs that are outdated or exposed.
By working with a qualified contractor like MGS Contracting Services, you ensure that every aspect of your kitchen’s electrical system, wiring, outlets, lighting, and panel, is fully compliant with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations. This protects not just your investment, but your safety and peace of mind.
Lighting and Convenience: Upgrading with a Modern Lifestyle in Mind
Electrical upgrades also open the door to modern conveniences and energy-efficient lighting. As part of the planning process, we help homeowners design:
- Layered lighting plans (recessed, under-cabinet, and pendant lighting).
- Dimmable circuits for ambiance and energy savings.
- Smart switches or outlets that can be voice-activated or controlled remotely.
- Convenient power locations for charging stations, coffee bars, and built-in appliances.
These enhancements not only increase your kitchen’s functionality but also add long-term value to your home.
When upgrading an old kitchen, the electrical system is one of the most important, and expensive, parts to address. But it’s also the area where cutting corners can lead to long-term regret, safety hazards, and failed inspections. With MGS Contracting Services, you’re not just getting a beautiful new kitchen, you’re getting the peace of mind that comes from knowing every wire, switch, and outlet is safe, modern, and built to last.
3. Evaluate and Upgrade Plumbing
When upgrading an old kitchen, one of the most critical systems to assess, and often the most overlooked, is the plumbing. While it’s easy to focus on surface-level improvements like cabinetry and countertops, what’s behind the walls and under the floor can make or break your renovation long after the last tile is laid.
Old plumbing systems, especially in homes built before the 1980s, often use outdated materials that no longer meet modern building standards or performance expectations. At MGS Contracting Services, we believe in taking a proactive approach: not only to ensure your kitchen functions seamlessly today but also to safeguard it against leaks, failures, and costly repairs down the road.
Replace Old Pipes: Start with the Foundation
If your kitchen still contains cast iron, galvanized steel, or lead pipes, it’s time to upgrade, no exceptions. These materials were common in older homes but are now known for their vulnerability:
- Cast iron pipes corrode over time, leading to clogs, rust flakes in water, and eventually cracks or total pipe failure.
- Galvanized pipes are prone to corrosion and scale buildup, which restrict water flow and increase the chance of leaks or burst lines.
- Lead pipes pose a serious health hazard and should be replaced immediately if discovered.
During the process of upgrading an old kitchen, our team at MGS inspects the plumbing layout and identifies these aging materials. We recommend replacing them with modern, durable, and code-compliant options like PVC (for drain lines) and PEX (for supply lines). These materials are flexible, cost-effective, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for retrofitting older homes.
Plan for New Fixture and Appliance Locations
A modern kitchen isn’t just about updated finishes, it’s about improving functionality and workflow. That often involves relocating plumbing to support new layouts or features. Whether you’re moving your sink to a new wall, adding a second prep sink, installing a pot filler above the stove, or including a refrigerator with an ice maker and water dispenser, your plumbing system needs to adapt to meet the plan.
Relocating or adding plumbing lines isn’t just a matter of cutting a hole and running a pipe. It requires:
- Mapping out the most efficient route to connect to existing supply and drain lines.
- Verifying that water pressure and flow rates meet appliance specifications.
- Ensuring proper venting and slope for drain lines to prevent blockages or gurgling sounds.
- Coordinating with electricians and framers to avoid conflicts behind the walls.
At MGS Contracting Services, we evaluate your existing plumbing infrastructure and help you integrate these new features without compromising on safety or performance.
Inspect and Replace Valves and Supply Lines
Another key step in upgrading an old kitchen is checking all the supply lines and shutoff valves while the walls are open and accessible. These often-overlooked components play a major role in your kitchen’s longevity.
Many older homes still have original shutoff valves that are corroded, stuck, or leaking. If these aren’t addressed during the renovation, they could fail and cause flooding or water damage later on. We recommend replacing all fixture shutoffs with modern quarter-turn ball valves, which are reliable, easy to operate, and designed to last.
Similarly, flexible water supply lines that connect to faucets, dishwashers, or refrigerators should be inspected and upgraded with braided stainless-steel hoses, which are far more durable and resistant to rupture than rubber or plastic lines.
Prevent Future Headaches: Upgrade for Performance and Peace of Mind
The best time to address plumbing issues is before your new cabinets, backsplash, and appliances are installed. Once the walls are closed and the finishes are in place, repairing a hidden leak or rerouting a line becomes a far more invasive and expensive process.
That’s why MGS Contracting Services takes a proactive stance, if it’s old, unreliable, or no longer up to code, it gets replaced. This not only ensures that your kitchen renovation is built on a solid foundation but also:
- Prevents slow or hidden leaks that can lead to rot or mold.
- Increases the efficiency and performance of your plumbing system.
- Supports modern appliances and layouts without compromise.
- Provides long-term peace of mind knowing your plumbing won’t fail behind freshly finished walls.
Upgrading an old kitchen means going beyond what you see, it’s about reworking what you don’t see to protect the investment you’re making in your home. A functional, reliable plumbing system is the backbone of a great kitchen. Whether you’re planning a minor facelift or a full gut renovation, evaluating and upgrading the plumbing is one of the smartest and most important decisions you can make.
When you work with MGS Contracting Services, you can trust that every water line, valve, and drain is installed with precision, built to code, and designed for long-term performance. We don’t just renovate kitchens, we future-proof them.
4. Inspect Framing and Structural Integrity
One of the most important, and often underestimated, steps in upgrading an old kitchen is inspecting and addressing the structural integrity of the space. Beneath the charm of an older home often lie decades of wear, shifting, and subtle settling that can wreak havoc on your remodeling plans if not handled properly. At MGS Contracting Services, we believe a successful kitchen renovation begins with a rock-solid foundation, literally.
When walls, ceilings, and floors are opened up during demolition, it’s the perfect time to examine the underlying framework of your kitchen: the framing, joists, studs, and subfloor. These elements form the backbone of your kitchen and will determine whether your new materials and finishes will install smoothly, perform reliably, and look their best for years to come.
Check for Level, Plumb, and Square Conditions
Homes built several decades ago rarely meet today’s standard of perfectly level or precisely square. Settling, moisture exposure, and natural wood movement over time can result in:
- Sloped floors
- Bowed or wavy walls
- Sagging ceilings
- Out-of-square corners
While these imperfections might not have been noticeable with old finishes or lightweight materials, they become significant when you’re trying to install modern cabinetry, quartz countertops, custom backsplashes, or tile flooring.
At MGS, we carefully assess the structural condition of every kitchen during demolition. We use levels, laser tools, and visual checks to determine whether your framing is suitable for the new design, and if not, we make a plan to correct it before moving forward.
Watch for Hidden Misalignment or Damage
Many older kitchens are finished with plaster walls, old drywall, or paneling that can mask structural issues. Once those finishes come down, it’s not uncommon to uncover:
- Warped or twisted studs
- Water damage from long-forgotten leaks
- Settled or cracked joists
- Termite or pest damage
- Improper or DIY structural modifications
These discoveries can be alarming to homeowners, but they’re not unusual. In fact, we at MGS often find that the most valuable part of a kitchen renovation isn’t what you see on day one, but what we uncover and proactively repair before new materials go in.
Ignoring these problems and simply covering them up can lead to serious consequences down the road: cracked tile, warped cabinets, countertop gaps, and even compromised structural safety.
Plan for Extra Carpentry and Reinforcements
Correcting structural issues isn’t a glamorous part of kitchen remodeling, but it’s essential for a truly durable upgrade. Depending on what we uncover, our skilled carpenters may need to:
- Shim or plane studs to create a flat, even surface for cabinets or tile.
- Sister floor joists (adding new wood alongside existing ones) to reinforce sagging or undersized members.
- Reframe walls that are leaning, bowed, or structurally unsound.
- Level the subfloor to ensure tile, vinyl planks, or hardwood can be installed without bounce or slope.
- Add framing blocks behind the walls to support heavy features like wall ovens, vent hoods, or upper cabinetry.
These steps not only enhance the safety and integrity of the kitchen but also streamline installation for every trade that follows, from drywallers and electricians to cabinet installers and countertop fabricators.
At MGS Contracting Services, we always recommend homeowners include a structural buffer in their kitchen renovation budget to accommodate these potential framing needs. The payoff is well worth it: a kitchen that looks flawless and performs beautifully for the long haul.
Longevity, Safety, and Performance
Investing time and resources in correcting structural issues before installing finishes ensures that your remodel is built to last. Cabinets will hang straight, tile won’t crack, and flooring won’t squeak or shift. Just as importantly, it means:
- Appliances fit correctly into their openings without needing last-minute modifications.
- Countertops meet the cabinets perfectly, no unsightly gaps or uneven surfaces.
- The entire kitchen feels level and balanced, rather than subtly crooked or off-kilter.
By addressing framing and structural problems now, you’re setting the stage for a kitchen that not only looks great but functions perfectly for decades to come.
The MGS Commitment to Structural Excellence
When upgrading an old kitchen, many contractors skip over structural inspection to save time. At MGS Contracting Services, we do the opposite: we slow down, investigate thoroughly, and solve hidden issues before they become costly headaches. It’s part of our commitment to craftsmanship, transparency, and doing things right the first time.
Whether your home is 30, 50, or 100 years old, our team is trained to spot trouble before it starts and ensure that your kitchen remodel is anchored in strength, stability, and code compliance, not just surface beauty.
5. Address Subfloor and Flooring Support
When it comes to upgrading an old kitchen, one of the most overlooked, yet critical, areas is what’s underneath your feet: the subfloor and its ability to support your new flooring system. This foundational layer plays a vital role in the success and longevity of your kitchen renovation. Unfortunately, in many older homes, the subfloor simply wasn’t designed to handle modern materials like large-format tile, stone, or engineered hardwood.
At MGS Contracting Services, we’ve seen firsthand how skipping this crucial step can lead to expensive flooring failures, cracked grout, loose tiles, squeaky planks, or soft spots that compromise the finish and safety of the kitchen. That’s why we prioritize subfloor assessment and reinforcement early in every project.
Understand the Role of the Subfloor
The subfloor is the structural base layer that sits directly on top of your floor joists. It provides a flat, stable foundation for the flooring you see and walk on every day. In older homes, the subfloor may be composed of:
- 1x planks laid diagonally or straight across joists
- Thin plywood (often 3/8” or 1/2”)
- Multiple patched layers of underlayment
While this may have worked for linoleum or vinyl in the past, these materials are not suitable for supporting modern tile, stone, or heavy composite flooring. These newer options demand a flatter, stronger, and more rigid surface to perform properly.
Inspect and Reinforce Before Installing New Floors
Before any new flooring can be installed, it’s essential to remove old layers and inspect what lies beneath. We look for:
- Soft spots or spongy areas caused by rot or water damage
- Uneven surfaces due to settling or joist movement
- Creaking or excessive deflection that indicates structural weakness
If we find deficiencies, our team reinforces the floor using strategies such as:
- Installing thicker plywood (typically 5/8” to 3/4”) to increase rigidity
- Adding cement backer board or uncoupling membranes beneath tile to prevent cracking
- Using self-leveling compounds to eliminate dips and create a flat plane for floating floors
- Sistering or bracing joists beneath the subfloor for added structural support
These steps don’t just protect your flooring investment, they also improve the overall feel and quality of the kitchen. A floor that feels solid underfoot speaks volumes about the quality of your remodel.
Prevent Long-Term Issues Like Tile Cracking or Warping
A weak or improperly prepped subfloor can lead to long-term failures like:
- Tile delamination (tiles popping up)
- Cracked grout lines
- Warped or buckled floating floors
- Excessive movement that causes appliance instability
That’s why MGS works closely with homeowners to coordinate flooring selections with structural planning. If you’re going for ceramic tile, we’ll reinforce accordingly. If you’re choosing engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl plank, we’ll ensure the subfloor is flat, dry, and strong enough to hold up over time.
We advise discussing flooring choices early in the design phase so we can align the subfloor system with your materials. Waiting too late can lead to unexpected costs or design compromises.
Build for Durability and Comfort
The goal isn’t just a beautiful finish, it’s a floor that will last for decades without problems. When done right, subfloor upgrades can also improve insulation, minimize sound transmission between floors, and increase your home’s resale value.
So whether your old kitchen had linoleum, tile, or carpet, it’s likely time to strip it down to the bones and build a new base layer that’s strong, level, and ready to support the modern kitchen you envision.
Final Thoughts on Upgrading an Old Kitchen
Upgrading an old kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a comprehensive process that involves structural integrity, modern safety standards, and long-term functionality. Unlike newer builds, older homes come with a unique set of challenges: outdated systems, worn materials, hidden damage, and design limitations. That’s why it’s so important to plan carefully, bring in the right professionals, and take each phase seriously.
Plan Thoroughly for Every Phase
At MGS Contracting Services, we emphasize front-end planning. Upgrading a kitchen in an older home often takes more time, coordination, and budget than a newer one, but the results are well worth it. When you address these five core areas:
- Unforeseen budget issues
- Outdated electrical systems
- Aging plumbing
- Framing and structural concerns
- Subfloor and flooring support
You set your project up for a smoother process and a more beautiful, longer-lasting result.
Work With Professionals Who Understand Old Homes
Remodeling an old kitchen requires experience with historic layouts, obsolete construction methods, and legacy systems. Not all contractors are prepared for this, but MGS specializes in these kinds of homes. Our trained team knows how to identify red flags early, recommend smart upgrades, and guide you through choices that bring out the best in your kitchen without cutting corners.
Budget With Foresight
Set aside contingency funds, typically 10–20% of your total budget, and prepare for hidden repairs. Structural framing, plumbing reroutes, and electrical panel upgrades might not have been part of your dream kitchen, but they’re essential for making that dream last. A strong foundation is what makes the finishes shine.
Enjoy the Benefits for Years to Come
A well-renovated kitchen isn’t just functional, it’s a space that adds daily comfort, efficiency, and joy to your home. And when done right, it will support your lifestyle, enhance resale value, and give you peace of mind that everything behind the walls is as solid as the finishes you see.
By taking the time to plan thoroughly, invest in proper infrastructure, and work with experienced remodeling professionals like MGS Contracting Services, your old kitchen can be transformed into a safe, stylish, and high-performing space that will serve you beautifully for decades to come.