How to Estimate Kitchen Cabinet Costs and Avoid Common Mistakes

When planning a kitchen remodel, one of the most significant expenses you will encounter is the cost of kitchen cabinets. Being able to accurately estimate their cost is a key factor in budgeting for such costs, while staying on target with your budget. For this reason, the following will help guide you through the common pitfalls you need to avoid and give you valuable tips that can help in the estimation of the cost of kitchen cabinets.

Understanding the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets

What Affects the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets?

The cost of kitchen cabinets can vary widely based on several factors, including:

1. Material: Cabinets can be made from an assortment of different materials: solid wood, plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiber. Usually, solid woods are much more expensive; this is because they are very durable and beautiful to look at. Each material has a different set of pros and cons that influence the overall cost.
2. Style: The style of the cabinets, whether traditional, modern, or shaker, can influence pricing. Custom designs typically cost more than stock or semi-custom options. Moreover, intricate designs often require more labor and craftsmanship, adding to the cost.
3. Size: Of course, the larger the kitchen, the more cabinets it uses up, thereby increasing the cost even more. Always have an exact measurement of your kitchen to estimate how much cabinetry you may need. In addition, if you have an island or any unique layout, that too may have added cabinetry.
4. Finish and Hardware: Finishing and hardware choices also have the potential to add to your cost. In general, the nicer the finish and hardware, the more money these items will cost. Remember, soft-close hinges and drawer slides may further increase the overall cost.
5. Labor: Don’t forget to factor in labor costs for installation, which can vary depending on the complexity of the job. While some homeowners opt for DIY installation, hiring a professional can save time and ensure better quality. If unforeseen costs arise you can use this calculator.

The Importance of Accurate Measurements

When it comes to calculating the cost of kitchen cabinets, it is highly relevant that you get the measurements right. Take out your tape measure and very accurately measure the height, width, and depth of your kitchen’s spaces, including the doorways and any windows that may exist.

Incorrect measurements can easily result in overbuying or underbuying cabinets, which can make a huge difference in your budget.

How to Measure Your Kitchen for Cabinets

1. Start with a Floor Plan: Sketch a rough layout of your kitchen, noting where appliances, windows, and doors are located.
2. Measure Wall Space: Measure the length of each wall and take note of any interruptions like windows or doorways.
3. Consider Height and Depth: Standard cabinet height is typically 30 inches, but custom options can vary. Measure how high you want your cabinets to be and how deep they should extend from the wall.
4. Account for Appliances: Make sure to include space for any appliances that will sit beside or below the cabinets.

Common Pitfalls When Estimating the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets

1. Failing to Research

Not doing an adequate study before making cabinet purchases is one of the general mistakes in homeowners. You should know how much kitchen cabinets cost on average in your locality. Search for some local suppliers and request a quotation to compare the prices. Such research will, therefore, allow you to set a realistic budget for yourself.

The Value of Online Reviews

Look into each supplier before you hire them and have customer reviews read to you, detailing the product and customer service quality of each. The best websites for this type of help include Yelp and Angie’s List.

2. Ignoring Additional Costs

While it’s easy to focus solely on the cabinet prices, other expenses can add up quickly. Consider additional costs such as:

• Installation: Hiring a professional installer can increase your overall budget. Always request quotes from multiple contractors.
• Delivery Fees: Some suppliers charge for delivery, which can be a hidden cost. Confirm delivery charges when obtaining quotes.
• Tax and Permits: Don’t overlook local taxes and any permits you might need for renovations. These fees can sometimes be substantial, depending on your locality.

3. Underestimating Your Budget

It is paramount to create a budget, and within the given budget, a contingency fund will be a big help. During any remodel, unexpected expenses can arise, so having an extra 10-20% of your budget set aside for those “surprises” may save you a lot of financial stress.

4. Choosing the Cheapest Option

Although it is very tempting to go for the cheapest cabinets available, this often defeats the price and quality standard. More precisely, think of the long-term value in investing a bit more money in higher-quality cabinets that will serve longer and add an aesthetic appeal to your kitchen.

Tips for Accurately Estimating the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets

1. Create a Detailed Budget

You must make a very detailed budget that covers all costs you will incur in the remodel of the kitchen before you begin to shop. Material costs, labor costs, and all other expenses need to go into this comprehensive budget that will see you through.

Using a Spreadsheet

Using a spreadsheet to track your expenses can be beneficial. You can categorize costs for cabinets, labor, delivery, and other expenses, which allows you to see where your money is going.

2. Seek Professional Advice

A great insight into the cost of kitchen cabinets could be provided by either a kitchen designer or a contractor. Such a professional will be on hand to help guide your decisions in view of budgeting and preference for design, so that you may make an informed choice.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

Do not just accept the first quote that comes your way. Get several quotes from various suppliers so you can compare prices and choices. This does not only enable you to know where the best price is, but you will also be able to check on the quality against the price.

Negotiating Prices

Don’t hesitate to negotiate with suppliers. Many are willing to offer discounts, especially if you are purchasing a significant quantity.

4. Consider Stock vs. Custom Cabinets

When estimating the cost of kitchen cabinets, it’s essential to understand the difference between stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets:

• Stock Cabinets: These are pre-manufactured, then sold in standard sizes and finishes. They are usually the cheapest and can be found in any home improvement store. Stock cabinets often come much sooner, so this may be a good option if you’re on a deadline.
• Semi-Custom Cabinets: These offer more flexibility in terms of sizes and finishes while still being less expensive than fully custom options. You can choose from a variety of styles and configurations.
• Custom Cabinets: Custom cabinets are made to fit your exact kitchen layout and, hence, the most expensive. As expected, they provide the greatest personalization, of course. If you have unique measurements or particular design elements in mind, custom cabinetry might be your best option.

5. Review Your Design Plan

Your kitchen layout and design can greatly impact the cost of your kitchen cabinets. Make sure your design plan fits within your budget, and if you plan to make significant changes in layout, consider how those adjustments will impact the cost of cabinets.

6. Use a Cost Estimator Tool

You can try going online and searching for tools or calculators that will help you estimate how much your cabinets will cost. You will be able to enter in your measurements and other preferences that narrow down an estimate. Remember to cross-reference your estimates by calling local suppliers to confirm estimates.

7. Plan for Future Needs

As you are planning for the cost of kitchen cabinets, take into consideration your future needs also. If you can envision staying in your home for many years, invest in higher quality materials for that reason. For example, if you are going to have more children or will be hosting big gatherings, choose cabinets that can take the heavy use.

8. Factor in Kitchen Trends

Kitchen trends can influence the price of your cabinets, too. For example, open shelving is very ‘in’ right now, which might affect what you buy. In addition, if you want high-end results, consider the newest finishes and styles that may carry higher price tags.

Cost of Kitchen Cabinets

• Estimating the cost of kitchen cabinets is important on your journey into remodeling the kitchen. By avoiding some common pitfalls and following these tips in this guide, you should get a more correct estimate and one that is closer to your budget.
• Remember, always research thoroughly, add all the associated costs, and consult professionals when needed.
• It be the premium solid hardwood cabinets or budget-friendly ones; perfect planning will guide you to success with your kitchen makeover. The right amount of time you invest in understanding what the cost of the kitchen cabinets will finally lead to adding beauty and functionality to your kitchen for years together.
• Once you start considering the cost of kitchen cabinets for your remodel—whether you prefer shaker-style cabinets or a more modern design—finding a reputable supplier becomes just as crucial as deciding on the style.
• You’ll want a company that offers high-quality products and provides options that meet both your aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.

ATLANTIS CABINET

For instance, Atlantis Cabinet provides hardy, well-made shaker cabinets and slick modern designs to meet your specific renovation needs. The professionals there can guide you through understanding how different options may fit your budget so that you are not blind to associated costs with kitchen cabinets.

Reach out to Atlantis Cabinet today at +1 (470) 461-8292, email info@atlantiscabinet.com, or visit their website for expert guidance on selecting the perfect cabinets for your kitchen remodel while staying within your budget.