Is 2-pac worth the extra cost over laminate?

For high-use kitchens, yes — it's repairable. For investment properties, laminate is usually the better return.

Who should supply appliances?

Supply them yourself if you have time and want exact models. Use a PC if you want the kitchen company to take warranty responsibility.

How long does a kitchen reno take?

From template to install, 6–10 weeks is normal. Stone alone is typically 2–3 weeks from template.

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How to Compare Kitchen Renovation Quotes

Updated 13 June 2026 · 5 min read · Written for Australian homeowners and builders

Kitchens combine joinery, stone, appliances and three or four trades. Comparing quotes means breaking each of those out and ignoring the headline number until you have.

The five quote sections that matter

Joinery — material (HMR vs plywood carcass), door finish (2-pac, melamine, laminate), soft-close hardware brand.
Stone — Caesarstone vs Smartstone vs Dekton vs natural stone, edge profile, splashback included or not.
Appliances — fixed PC sum vs supplied by you.
Trades — plumbing rough-in, electrical (new circuits for induction), tiling/flooring, painting.
Project management — who coordinates trades and chases warranties.

Item	Kitchen A	Kitchen B
Joinery (2-pac)	$18,500	$15,200 (laminate doors)
Stone (20mm Caesarstone)	$6,200	$4,800 (20mm Smartstone)
Appliance PC	$7,500	$5,000
Trades	$4,200	$3,400
Apparent price	$36,400	$28,400
Adjusted for like-for-like spec	$36,400	$35,100

Pair this with Hidden Costs in Renovation Quotes before you sign.

Frequently asked questions

Is 2-pac worth the extra cost over laminate?: For high-use kitchens, yes — it's repairable. For investment properties, laminate is usually the better return.
Who should supply appliances?: Supply them yourself if you have time and want exact models. Use a PC if you want the kitchen company to take warranty responsibility.
How long does a kitchen reno take?: From template to install, 6–10 weeks is normal. Stone alone is typically 2–3 weeks from template.

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