Cabinet Replacing

Replacing Kitchen Cabinet Doors: How-To in 2024

The average cost to replace cabinets is a crucial aspect of kitchen remodeling budgets and can vary from $3,200 to $25,000.

In this article:

1. Average Cost to Replace Cabinets
2. Cabinet Replacement by Type
3. Cabinet Replacement by Material
4. Cabinet Replacement Labor Cost
5. Factors That Affect Cabinet Replacement Costs
6. Additional Costs and Services Associated With Cabinet Replacement
7. 5 Ways to Save Money on Cabinet Replacement
8. DIY Cabinet Replacement vs. Hiring a Professional
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Cabinet installation cost varies widely based on factors like material quality, design complexity, and whether you're updating existing cabinets or installing new ones.

New cabinet installation cost will generally be higher than simply replacing doors or hardware on existing frameworks.

When considering the cost of replacing kitchen cabinets and countertops, it's important to factor in both materials and labor.

Countertops can range from affordable laminate to high-end stone, significantly impacting the overall expense.

To accurately estimate cabinet cost, one must consider all components of the job.

These include the removal of old cabinets, preparation of the area for new cabinets, and the installation itself.

Costs will fluctuate based on the size of the kitchen and the cabinet quality selected.

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on local pricing and specific project details.

If you're considering cabinet replacement or installation, getting a personalized quote is the next step. Click here for a tailored estimate that considers your unique kitchen layout and design preferences.

Cabinet Replacement by Type

Selecting the right type of cabinets for your kitchen involves considering function, style, and budget.

A custom cabinetmaker might be your choice for unique, made-to-measure spaces. Alternatively, stock cabinets offer a cost-effective, readily available option.

Reviews play a crucial role in this decision.

Kitchen cabinet reviews provide insights into durability, style, and customer satisfaction. Look for patterns in feedback to guide your choice.

Stock cabinets are mass-produced, ready-made units. They are the most affordable, with prices starting around $60 per unit. Limited in design options, these cabinets are best for straightforward layouts.

Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility. You can alter dimensions and finishes. Costs start near $100 per unit and can reach around $650 depending on customization level.

A custom cabinetmaker crafts cabinets to exact specifications. This option provides the highest personalization but also comes with the highest cost, typically ranging from $500 to $1,200 per unit.

Make sure to look into each project’s timeline for a detailed understanding of what you will be going through.

Cabinet Replacement by Material

The material of kitchen cabinets significantly impacts both cost and durability. When selecting materials, consider factors such as wear resistance, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal.

Particleboard

Particleboard is an economical option, typically coated with laminate or wood veneer. It's lightweight and can range from $30 to $40 per linear foot.

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

MDF offers a smooth finish ideal for painting, with costs averaging between $50 and $70 per linear foot. It's denser than particleboard and resists warping.

Plywood

Plywood cabinets are more durable and resistant to moisture than particleboard or MDF, making them a sturdier option at $80 to $100 per linear foot.

Wood

Solid wood remains a top choice for its longevity and classic look, ranging from $100 to $500 per linear foot, depending on the species.

Stainless Steel

For a contemporary look and ultimate durability, stainless steel is a premium material, costing between $300 and $500 per linear foot.

For more cost-effective cabinet options, consider looking into affordable kitchen cabinets materials.

Cabinet Replacement Labor Cost

The labor cost to install kitchen cabinets forms a significant part of your kitchen remodel budget.

Professionals calculate these costs based on the complexity of the job and the hours required.

For a typical kitchen, labor can range from $50 to $450 per cabinet for installation, which translates to an overall labor cost of about $2,000 to $8,000 for full kitchen cabinet replacement.

Tearing out kitchen cabinets and preparing the space for new installation will incur additional charges.

Disposal of old materials may also affect the total labor cost. On average, to take out kitchen cabinets and dispose them might add an extra $300 to $500 to your project.

When considering install cabinet doors, this process is often less labor-intensive than full cabinet replacement, potentially saving on total labor expenses.

It's not unusual for installation of doors alone to be priced at $100 to $300 depending on the style and mechanism of the cabinet doors.

For a successful remodel, avoiding common mistakes is as important as careful planning.

Remember to consult with a professional for a precise quote on labor costs tailored to the specifics of your kitchen layout and design.

Click here to connect with experienced service pros who can guide you and provide a detailed labor cost breakdown.

Factors That Affect Cabinet Replacement Costs

Several factors contribute to the overall expense of cabinet replacement.

Larger cabinets or unconventional sizes can increase costs. Standard base cabinets are usually 24 inches deep and 36 inches tall, with variable widths.

Wall cabinets typically measure 12 to 17 inches in depth. Custom sizes will be pricier, with increased costs proportionate to the size.

Expect to pay an additional 20% to 50% for custom dimensions.

Higher-end materials such as solid wood or metal can significantly increase costs compared to laminate or MDF.

The more custom work a project requires, like adding organizational features or unique sizes, the higher the price.

Labor and material costs can vary based on where you live. Metropolitan areas often have higher prices than rural areas.

The condition of existing cabinets can impact costs. If the structure is sound, you may only need refacing rather than full replacement.

Existing cabinet damage may affect installation costs.

If structural changes are needed due to water damage or decay, repair costs could add $50 to $100 per hour for a carpenter's time.

The choice of handles, knobs, and drawer pulls can affect the overall cost. High-end hardware options will increase costs.

Painted or stained finishes require different preparation and materials, which can affect the price.

Skilled labor comes at a premium. Specialists or high-end cabinet installers may charge more for their expertise.

Additional Costs and Services Associated With Cabinet Replacement

When replacing kitchen cabinet doors, several additional costs and considerations come into play:

• Replacing kitchen cabinet doors: This can be a cost-effective alternative to full cabinet replacement. Depending on material and design, new doors can range from $30 to $100 per door.
• Installing cabinets yourself: DIY installation can save labor costs, which typically run from $50 to $250 per cabinet. However, you will need to invest in cabinet installation tools such as a drill, level, stud finder, and saw. Quality tools can cost between $200 to $600.
• Materials and Supplies: Besides cabinets, you may need screws, brackets, and other hardware. A full set of installation hardware can add another $50 to $100 to your total cost.
• Modifications: Adjustments to fit new cabinets, like cutting or reshaping, can add $100 to $500 to the project.
• Finishing Touches: Post-installation, painting or staining your new cabinets might be needed, which can cost an additional $200 to $800, depending on the method and size of the area.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Replacing Your Cabinets

Considering the replacement of your kitchen cabinets? Reflect on these points:

• Is a full replacement necessary, or could a refresh suffice? Before and after kitchen cabinets images show transformations that a simple hardware update or repaint can achieve.
• Does your budget align with replacement costs? A full kitchen cabinet replacement ranges from $4,000 to $13,000 on average.
• How will this affect your home's value? Kitchen updates can recoup approximately 70% to 80% of their cost in home value.
• Are the new cabinets in line with the latest trends? Up-to-date styles can make a kitchen feel more contemporary. For inspiration, explore kitchen trends.
• How experienced is your chosen kitchen cabinet contractor? Reputable contractors with solid track records ensure quality work.

5 Ways to Save Money on Cabinet Replacement

Do you want to save money on replacing kitchen cabinet doors?

Here’s how to bring costs down:

1. Reface Existing Cabinets: Rather than full replacement, consider refacing existing cabinets. This can save up to 60-70% of the cost.
2. Replace Doors and Hardware: Replacing cabinet doors and hardware instead of the entire cabinet structure can trim expenses significantly.
3. Choose Stock Cabinets: Prefabricated stock cabinets can be as much as 30-50% cheaper than custom options.
4. Opt for Alternative Materials: Select materials like thermofoil or laminate, which can cost 25-50% less than solid wood.
5. Do It Yourself: Installing cabinets yourself can save on labor costs, which can run up to 50-75% of total cabinet installation expenses.

Looking for more ways to save? Click here for practical guidance.

DIY Cabinet Replacement vs. Hiring a Professional

Deciding between DIY cabinet replacement and hiring a professional involves assessing skills, costs, and time.

If you're adept with tools, cabinet installation how to can be part of a rewarding DIY project.

However, the benefits of hiring a professional often outweigh the satisfaction of DIY. MyGreenHome always recommends hiring a skilled contractor, who can bring expertise, efficiency, and a higher level of finish to the table.

Professional installation averages around $100 to $300 per cabinet, which may seem higher upfront compared to DIY.

But this cost includes the precision and know-how that prevent costly mistakes.

FAQs

What replacement cabinets can I get for my budget?

Your budget can greatly influence the type of cabinets you can afford.

For a modest budget, stock cabinets are the most cost-effective option, with prices ranging generally from $60 to $200 per unit.

If you have a larger budget, semi-custom to custom cabinets offer more material and design choices, typically ranging from $100 to $1,200 per unit.

What is the average labor cost to replace kitchen cabinets?

The average labor cost to replace kitchen cabinets can vary widely depending on the region, complexity of installation, and type of cabinets chosen.

Generally, you can expect labor costs to be between $50 to $450 per cabinet, which translates to $2,000 to $8,000 for an average kitchen.

What is a good budget for kitchen cabinets?

A good budget for kitchen cabinets is one that aligns with both your financial constraints and your project expectations.

For many homeowners, setting aside $4,000 to $13,000 can cover a range of options from basic to more custom solutions.

Is it cheaper to replace the cabinets or just the doors?

It is typically cheaper to replace just the cabinet doors rather than the entire cabinets.

This can give your kitchen an updated look without the more significant costs associated with full cabinet replacement.

Is it cheaper to resurface or replace cabinets?

Resurfacing cabinets is usually cheaper than replacing them. Resurfacing involves keeping the cabinet structure but replacing the front parts like doors and drawer fronts.

It's a cost-effective way to update the look without a complete overhaul.

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Last update: 22 Jul 2024