Updating your kitchen cabinets can be an exciting time and it should be! However, there are a lot of different factors to consider when doing so - and of course, the cost of new kitchen cabinets is a very real conisderation. Below we share a few things to consider before planning out your kitchen cabinet budget.
Three Questions to Ask Before You Replace Kitchen Cabinets
1. Is Your Storage Space Working for You?
Before replacing your existing kitchen cabinets, spend some time checking out the design of the cabinets you have. Newer kitchens and cabinets have ergonomic, user-friendly features that maximize space. Glide-out shelving means seeing everything in a low cabinet like a pull-out drawer. You can have up to 50% more space in your existing cabinets with this option.
- Older kitchen designs may have cabinets that are not very functional.
- Newer designs tend to have more moving inserts and horizontal stacking space.
- Is the space under your kitchen sink crammed with cleaning materials?
- Does your kitchen layout include corner cabinets with poor access?
- Do your cabinets have pull-out drawers?
Custom-made glide-out systems can maximize the space in your kitchen cabinets. Regardless of the style of kitchen cabinet that you find attractive, you still need to consider practicality and available space.
2. What is the Lifespan of Your Kitchen?
Well-designed, custom-crafted, and professionally installed cabinets can last a lifetime. Sadly, the opposite is also true. Depending on the original quality of materials used, your kitchen cabinets may still be great, even if they look a bit dated. Classic craftsmanship stands the test of time. Over time, poorly manufactured cabinets can have many problems. Improper installation can also cause damage:
- Shelving brackets break
- Door hinges corrode and break
- Cabinet doors may come off entirely
- Cabinets can warp, swell, and be damaged (for example, poor seals, plumbing, and exposure to water)
3. What is Your Timeline?
A kitchen is one of the best features of a home. A great kitchen attracts potential buyers. But an old, dated kitchen is a liability. Investing in your kitchen automatically adds value to your home. You might want to change your timeline and save more before making budget-conscious choices that skimp on quality or aesthetics, especially if you’re in a rush to remodel or sell your home. Well-crafted, older cabinets can easily be painted for fresh appeal.
Approximate Costs of Kitchen Cabinets
There are various expenses to consider when looking at replacing kitchen cabinets and clever, creative ways to save on costs. Custom-built cabinets are the ideal choice, but depending on your budget, DIY skills, and choice of cabinets, you can often remodel your kitchen for a fraction of the cost. Three major budget areas to consider: the cost of the cabinets, installation costs, and hidden costs.
The average cost to replace kitchen cabinets typically falls into three categories:
- Budget-friendly options: This ranges between $2,000 - $5,000. This is perfect for a functional upgrade if you’re on a tight budget. These cabinets are made of less expensive materials and may not be as durable as some of the higher-end choices. If you are looking for something customizable, you’ll need to look at the mid-range or high-end solution.
- Mid-range choices: This option ranges between $7,000 - $15,000. This type of kitchen cabinet replacement combines semi-custom designs and durable materials. They also come in many different styles and finishes so that you can match them to your kitchen’s aesthetic.
- High-end solutions: You can expect to pay more than $15,000 for this option, but you’ll get premium materials, fully custom designs, and intricate craftsmanship. These cabinets are made from hardwoods like cherry or maple and come with hand-finished details. While they will last a long time, they can require a significant upfront investment.
Materials Matter: Choosing the Right Cabinet Material
What does your dream kitchen look like? At the top end of the market, steel and wood (from pine to maple) cabinets can cost between $5,000 and $38,000. Laminate and wood-veneer cabinets range from $1,900 - $15,000. Bear in mind what material your current kitchen cabinets are made of. Don’t sacrifice quality – refacing existing cabinets can transform your kitchen into a brand-new space.
Some of the most popular options for replacing kitchen cabinets are:
- Wood: Solid wood cabinets made of oak or maple are known for their timeless appeal and durability. They’re more expensive, but if you value quality, you can’t beat this option.
- Laminate: If you’re on a tight budget, this is a friendlier alternative. Laminate cabinets come in all kinds of finishes that mimic the look of wood, but they’re more vulnerable to wear and tear.
- Metal: Metal cabinets come in stainless steel or aluminum, and they’re a popular choice for industrial-style kitchens. They’re durable and easy to clean, but they do come with a higher price tag.
- Plywood: This cabinet material is a versatile and affordable option, and they are strong and resistant to moisture.
- Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF): This is the cheapest option on the list, but it’s vulnerable to humidity, and it doesn’t hold up well with easy use. If you install these cabinets, you can expect to have to replace them again at some point in the future.
Choosing the suitable material for replacing kitchen cabinets requires you to factor in your budget, design preferences, and how you choose your kitchen. If you have wood or laminate cabinets, here are some expert tips to refresh the look:
Painting Your Wood Cabinets
- Paint wood cabinets for a stylish new look. "The higher the sheen, the easier it is to clean," says Jessica Barr, a national trainer and painting expert at Behr.
- You will need to remove doors and hinges to paint all areas
- Use a primer and two coats of semi-gloss paint
- Be sure to allow a few days for the coats of paint to dry, as well as time to reassemble
Painting Melamine or Laminate Cabinets
The surface of these cabinets is very smooth and non-porous. That makes them great for cleaning but not good for getting paint to stick. The surface needs to be roughed up for the paint to stick, or you need to use specialized primers, paints, and seals. A few tips here:
- Regular paint will peel off
- Rust-Oleum provides DIY kits that work on wood, laminate, and melamine
- All the tools and materials (deglosser, bonding agent, decorative glaze, and bonding top-coat)
There are many creative ways to update a kitchen – from changing the flooring to adding a backsplash. Jessica Barr, who works with Martha Stewart, suggests that you think about unconventional colors, too. Neutrals are popular, but dark colors like a rich green can be bold and stylish. Darker colors are less conventional but very stylish.
Additional Costs to Consider Beyond The Cabinets
Understanding the basic breakdown of costs can help you plan which options will be best for you and understand where you can save.
Installation Costs
The cost of labor depends on the cabinets you are choosing and who you choose to install them. A company that offers custom-made cabinets may offer you a set price, including installation. While exact figures vary based on where you live, here are some guidelines to start your planning:
- You could negotiate the price and install them yourself
- Using a contractor or handyman ($60 - $90 per hour): $900 - $1,350
- Professional Cabinet Installer ($35 - $65 per hour): $525 - $975
Always ask for references and check for online reviews.
Cabinet Costs & Savings
This is the area where you can make your budget stretch and work for you. Cabinet prices differ depending on the design and materials. The average cost per linear foot can be from $100 to $280, or $2,000 - $5,600 in total. Spruce reports that the national average cost to remodel a 10-foot by 10-foot kitchen can be as high as $26,000.
Hardware
In addition to the cabinets, you’ll need to choose handles, knobs, and hinges. These costs can quickly start to add up, especially if you’re choosing premium options like brushed nickel or a custom finish.
Countertop Integration
If you’re replacing kitchen cabinets that don’t affect the counter, you’ll be able to save a little bit of money. However, if your countertop needs to be replaced or adjusted to install these new cabinets, it’ll increase your final cost to replace kitchen cabinets.
Finishing Touches
You might also want to add crown molding, a new backsplash, under-cabinet lighting, or decorative panels to enhance the look of your kitchen and replace the cabinet.
Demolition and Disposal
If you’re replacing existing cabinets, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of removing them and having them disposed of. To dispose of them responsibly, you’ll need to budget another extra hundred dollars.
Cost-Saving Tips for Kitchen Cabinet Replacement
1. Buy RTA (Ready-To-Assemble)
These cabinets are budget-friendly, and labor costs are reduced because the owner assembles them. Shipping costs are also sometimes waived over a certain amount.
- Buy lower-priced flatpack cabinets from IKEA. They need to be assembled, or you can pay a fee for assembly and installation.
- Costco offers a diverse range of Wood cabinetry in traditional, contemporary, and modern styles.
Whichever option you decide on, replacing your kitchen cabinets will transform and add value to your home. There are many options to consider when undertaking a major remodel. Be sure to carefully evaluate your storage needs and budget. Do your homework and review professional services and companies. Remember that you can list your cabinets and save on removal costs. You can be creative and transform your kitchen on a tight budget. It may be prudent to save more. With a bigger budget, you will have more options when it comes to choosing added features, styles, and materials.
2. Go Green with Used Cabinets
You can also find high-quality kitchen cabinets that people no longer want. This is a great, budget-friendly option. There are many places to look for these – and you may just find something amazing for free or at an extremely low cost. Check out your options by exploring:
- Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace
- Habitat for Humanity Re-Store
- Architectural Salvage yards (in large metro areas)
3. Save on Hidden Costs
The sink base cabinet alone can be $300 per linear foot, and special cabinets can cost $300 - $850. Extra features like glass fitting and molding ($300 - $2,400) can also add to costs. There is also the cost of removing and disposing of your existing cabinets. Two ideas to save here:
- List your cabinets on sites like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.
- Offer them for free or for a low price
You can stretch your budget to the max to replace your kitchen cabinets with these cost-saving tips.
Find The Right Solution for Your Kitchen with ShelfGenie
Ready to transform your kitchen without the hassle or high cost of kitchen cabinet replacement? ShelfGenie offers custom Pull-Out shelves and other innovative storage solutions that can enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics.
Our team of expert designers work closely with you to create a tailored design with a 3D rendering that meets your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a complete makeover or simple improvements to uplevel your organization, we’re here to help you achieve your dream kitchen. With us, you’re in good hands, and our Neighborly Done Right Promise™ backs all our work.
Contact ShelfGenie today to schedule your free, at-home consultation and discover how we can make your kitchen more efficient, organized, and beautiful.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. ShelfGenie is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local ShelfGenie location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
