Compare the highest-rated kitchen remodeling professionals in Ely, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, full-service design-build firm located directly in Ely. They specialize in custom home building and major renovations, with a strong focus on kitchen remodels. Their strength lies in managing projects from initial design and layout to final construction, ensuring a seamless process for the client.
A well-established and respected general contractor based in Duluth, serving the entire Arrowhead region, including Ely. They have a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and professional project management on high-end kitchen renovations. They coordinate all trades, including plumbing, electrical, and custom countertop fabrication.
While based in the slightly larger hub of Virginia, MN, this company is a dedicated kitchen and bath specialist that serves the Iron Range. They offer a showroom experience for selecting cabinets, countertops, and fixtures, and they manage the entire installation process, including backsplash and tile work.
The kitchen remodeling market in Ely, Minnesota, is characterized by a small number of local, highly versatile contractors and a reliance on established firms from larger regional hubs like Duluth and Virginia. Due to Ely's remote location, pricing is typically 10-20% higher than the national average to account for material transport and specialized labor. Competition is not intense in terms of volume, but the quality of work from the top providers is very high, as they rely on reputation and word-of-mouth in a tight-knit community. Homeowners should expect a longer project timeline compared to urban areas, primarily due to scheduling and potential delays in material shipments. The most successful projects often involve contractors who offer comprehensive design-build services to streamline the process.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ely regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about kitchen remodeling services in Ely, Minnesota.
Ely's harsh winters and significant snowfall can delay material deliveries and complicate contractor scheduling, especially for projects involving exterior work like window replacements or vent installations. The most reliable time to schedule a remodel is typically late spring through early fall (May to September), as local contractors are most active and supply chain disruptions are minimized during these months. Planning well in advance is crucial, as booking a reputable local contractor often requires lead times of several months.
Yes, for most structural changes, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work, you will need permits from the City of Ely's Building Official or St. Louis County if you live outside city limits. This is especially important for updating older Ely homes to meet current state building and energy codes. Always verify with your contractor that they are pulling the necessary permits; this protects you and ensures the work is inspected for safety and compliance.
A full kitchen remodel in Ely can range from $25,000 for a modest update to $75,000+ for a high-end renovation with custom cabinetry. Costs are often higher than in metro areas due to transportation fees for materials and a smaller pool of specialized tradespeople, which can limit competitive pricing. Investing in quality, energy-efficient windows and insulation is wise for our climate, impacting long-term utility costs more than the initial remodel budget.
Prioritize contractors with a strong, verifiable local reputation and extensive experience with Ely's older home stock and seasonal challenges. Ask for references from recent projects and confirm they are properly licensed and insured in Minnesota. A reliable local contractor will understand how to work with the area's specific supply chains and will have established relationships with other trusted local tradespeople, which is vital for a coordinated project.
Absolutely. Choose durable, moisture-resistant materials for countertops and flooring that can handle tracked-in snow and wet boots, such as quartz or luxury vinyl plank. Prioritize energy efficiency by selecting ENERGY STAR® appliances and ensuring proper insulation and sealing around new windows and doors to combat heat loss. Incorporating a dedicated, heated mudroom entry from the garage or outdoors can also help contain winter messes and improve the kitchen's longevity.