How accurate is the kitchen estimator?
It builds the number the way a Columbus kitchen is actually bid: measure the room, schedule the trades by real man-hours, price labor, subs and materials, then apply the construction contingency. That makes it a planning range rather than a national average. The final figure still depends on jobsite conditions that are verified on site before a formal quote.
Why is the range so wide?
Because a few decisions do almost all of the work. Appliance grade is the largest single swing on a standard 10-by-10 remodel, and whether the sink moves decides whether rough plumbing is included at $1,500 or finish plumbing only at $500. The range printed under the headline figure is the cabinet-grade band: the same project recomputed at $2,500 and $4,000 of cabinet cost.
Do I have to give you my email?
No. The estimator runs end to end with no contact details, and the result appears on screen either way. An email address is optional, and it is only needed to have the detailed itemised breakdown sent rather than read on the page.
What do the five steps actually ask?
Layout (Basic L, galley, U-shape or peninsula), size (standard 10-by-10 or large 12-by-14), appliance grade (skip it, or economy through luxury), and the conditions the house imposes: the year it was built, the state of the kitchen circuits, the countertop material, and toggles for an island, a moving sink and structural work. Each step explains why the choice moves the price.
Is labor included in the estimate?
Yes, and it is the largest line in most kitchens. The breakdown separates in-house labor, management and inspection time, the plumbing and electrical subs, install material, cabinets and the countertop. Labor is computed from a real per-trade schedule in man-hours, not as a flat price per checkbox.
Does this include appliances, permits, or design fees?
Appliances and cabinets appear as their own line items at typical cost, and who buys them does not change the project cost. Permits and inspection fees are paid to the municipality and are not included, and neither are design fees. Structural work that needs engineered drawings is shown as its own line when it applies.
Can I use this for insurance claims or refinance appraisals?
It is a planning and education tool — a solid starting point, but not a contractor quote and not an appraisal. A number on letterhead has to come from a formal, site-verified estimate; the contact form on this site is the place to ask for one.
Who is behind this site?
iSpec LLC, a licensed Columbus general contractor, builds the kitchens this site prices and maintains the estimator behind it.
The company site has project portfolios, team and more context.