Compare the highest-rated kitchen remodeling professionals in What Cheer, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally owned and operated franchise of a national brand, specializing in comprehensive kitchen remodels with a focus on minimizing downtime. They are known for their cabinet refacing and restoration services as a cost-effective alternative to full replacement, in addition to full renovations, new countertops, and custom cabinetry.
While renowned for their windows, this Pella-based company has a robust design center dedicated to kitchens and baths. They offer high-end custom cabinetry, countertop fabrication, and professional installation. Their strength lies in space optimization and integrating quality, brand-name products into a cohesive design.
A well-regarded general contractor based in Ottumwa, specializing in residential renovations and additions. They handle all aspects of a kitchen remodel, including the necessary structural, electrical, and plumbing work. They are a strong choice for complex projects that require changing the kitchen's footprint or significant infrastructure updates.
** The kitchen remodeling market for What Cheer, Iowa, is characteristic of a rural service area. There are no dedicated "kitchen and bath" showrooms within the immediate city, requiring residents to rely on established contractors from nearby regional hubs like Oskaloosa, Pella, and Ottumwa. The competition level is moderate among these regional players, who are accustomed to serving a wide geographical area. The average quality of work is high, as these businesses rely heavily on local reputation and word-of-mouth referrals within the tight-knit communities of Southeast Iowa. Pricing is generally in line with Midwestern averages, but projects may include a slight premium for travel time to the What Cheer location. Homeowners can expect a mid-range full kitchen remodel to start in the $25,000 - $40,000 range, with high-end projects with custom cabinetry and premium materials (e.g., quartz countertops) easily exceeding $60,000. The most common projects in the area are cabinet refacing/updating and full remodels of existing layouts, rather than large-scale structural expansions.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with What Cheer regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about kitchen remodeling services in What Cheer, Iowa.
For a full remodel in What Cheer, homeowners can expect a typical range of $25,000 to $50,000, depending on the scope and material choices. Local factors influencing cost include the age of your home (many in the area have older layouts requiring more structural updates), the need to coordinate with specialized tradespeople who may travel from nearby larger towns like Oskaloosa, and material delivery fees to our more rural location. Choosing durable, mid-range materials offers the best value for our region.
Iowa's distinct seasons significantly impact scheduling. The most favorable time for remodeling is late spring through early fall, as contractors can work efficiently without winter weather delays. However, this is also peak season, so booking early is crucial. Winters can bring harsh cold and snow, potentially delaying material deliveries on rural routes and complicating projects if exterior walls are opened, making indoor climate control a priority for both worker comfort and material integrity (like wood acclimation).
Yes, most structural, electrical, and plumbing work in What Cheer will require permits from the Keokuk County Building and Zoning Department. This is especially important for older homes where you may be moving walls or updating outdated systems to meet current codes. A reputable local contractor will handle this process, but it's wise to confirm they will pull all necessary permits, as this ensures inspections that protect your investment and safety.
Prioritize contractors with verifiable local references and a physical presence in the region (like those based in Keokuk or Poweshiek counties). Given our rural setting, confirm their reliability in managing subcontractor schedules and material logistics. Check for proper Iowa licensing and insurance, and review portfolios for experience with homes of a similar age and style to yours, as many What Cheer homes have unique layouts that benefit from a contractor familiar with them.
In older homes here, it's common to discover outdated wiring (like knob-and-tube), plumbing that needs full replacement, or structural surprises when opening walls, such as inadequate insulation or non-standard framing. Additionally, leveling original floors to accommodate new cabinetry and flooring often requires additional subfloor work. Allocating a contingency fund of 10-20% of your total budget is highly recommended to address these common hidden challenges without derailing your project.