When building or remodeling a home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, material selection matters just as much as design. Our region’s climate brings freezing winters, humid summers, and constant seasonal shifts that can take a toll on lower-quality finishes. Choosing the right cabinet, countertop, and flooring options ensures your home looks beautiful not just on move-in day—but for decades to come.
At Hjellming Construction, we’ve been helping South Dakota homeowners build and remodel homes since 1962. As a family-run company with generations of experience, we know which materials truly hold up in Midwest homes. Below, we break down durable, long-lasting choices—especially for kitchens—where function and style must work hand in hand.
Cabinet Choices Designed for Daily Life
Cabinets above are from our Sawtooth Trl build | See more of this custom home here
Cabinets are one of the most heavily used features in any kitchen. In a high-traffic space, durability is essential—especially when temperature fluctuations and dry winter air can cause materials to expand and contract.
Durable Cabinet Choices for South Dakota Kitchens
Solid wood cabinetry remains a top-tier choice for longevity and timeless appeal. However, we often recommend a combination of solid wood doors and plywood cabinet boxes, which offer greater stability than particle board and resist warping over time.
Popular cabinet choices we recommend include:
- Maple or oak doors for strength and longevity
- Plywood construction for durability
- Soft-close hinges and drawer glides
- Custom or semi-custom cabinetry for precise fit
Well-built cabinets not only elevate your kitchen design, but they also reduce long-term maintenance and replacement costs—an important factor when considering overall kitchen remodel cost.
Countertop Choices for South Dakota Homes: Marble vs. Granite
Old Yankton Road Remodel | See more of this build here
Countertops play a major role in both kitchen functionality and aesthetics. From food prep to entertaining, they see daily wear—so selecting long-lasting countertops in South Dakota is key.
Marble vs. Granite Countertops
One of the most common comparisons we’re asked about is marble vs. granite countertops.
Granite countertops are a favorite among Sioux Falls homeowners because they are:
- Extremely durable and heat-resistant
- Less porous than marble
- Ideal for busy households
Marble countertops, while stunning, are softer and require more maintenance. They’re best suited for homeowners who prioritize elegance and don’t mind regular sealing and care.
Quartz is another increasingly popular option, offering a clean, modern look with excellent durability and minimal upkeep. During the kitchen design process, our team helps homeowners select countertops that match both their lifestyle and aesthetic goals.
Flooring Choices That Withstand South Dakota Weather
Oakwood Pl Build | See more of this build here
Flooring is one of the largest investments in a remodel and plays a huge role in comfort and resale value. In South Dakota homes, weather-resistant flooring is essential.
Hardwood Flooring in the Kitchen
Yes—hardwood flooring in kitchens can work beautifully when properly selected and installed. Wood adds warmth and character, but it must be acclimated correctly and installed by experienced professionals to prevent issues over time.
Engineered Hardwood vs. Laminate Flooring
This is one of the most common flooring questions we receive.
Engineered hardwood flooring:
- Offers real wood appearance
- Handles humidity and temperature changes better
- Is ideal for kitchens and main living areas
Laminate flooring:
- More budget-friendly
- Highly scratch-resistant
- Less authentic in look and feel
For homeowners seeking long-term value and durability, engineered hardwood is often the preferred durable flooring option for South Dakota homes.
Other popular weather-resistant flooring choices include luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile, especially in entryways and lower levels.
Kitchen Remodel Cost: Invest Where It Matters Most
Every kitchen remodel comes with budget considerations. While costs vary based on scope and materials, cabinets, countertops, and flooring are areas where investing in quality delivers the greatest return.
Higher-quality materials:
- Last longer
- Require fewer repairs
- Improve resale value
- Enhance daily enjoyment
Our team helps homeowners make informed decisions so their investment pays off both now and in the future.
A Simple Kitchen Remodel Checklist
Planning is essential for a successful remodel. Here’s a helpful kitchen remodel checklist to get started:
- Establish your budget and priorities
- Select durable cabinet materials
- Choose countertops that fit your lifestyle
- Decide between engineered hardwood vs. laminate flooring
- Finalize layout and lighting early
- Partner with an experienced local builder
Working with a trusted Sioux Falls home builder ensures your remodel is well-planned, efficient, and built to last.
Why Sioux Falls Homeowners Choose Hjellming Construction
Hjellming Construction has proudly served Sioux Falls and surrounding South Dakota communities for over 60 years. From custom new home construction to high-end home remodeling, our craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every project.
As a multi-generational, family-run company, we value relationships, quality, and creating homes that are truly “uniquely yours.”
Ready to Build or Remodel with Confidence?
Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or building a custom home, choosing the right cabinet, countertop, and flooring materials is essential—especially in South Dakota’s climate.
If you’re ready to get started, Hjellming Construction would be honored to help bring your vision to life.