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How to choose kitchen cabinets. Interior of modern kitchen cabinets with gray wall, grey countertops and wooden cupboards.

The Ultimate Guide on How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets for Homeowners

Cabinets are the foundation of the kitchen. They define the overall appearance of the kitchen, anchor the layout, and organize the cooking and serving equipment. The kitchen, being the centerpiece of a home, warrants meticulous consideration with regard to both its aesthetic appeal and functionality.  So, Choose Kitchen Cabinets wisely.

Making the right decision about kitchen cabinets can be very daunting, given the multitude of design options and features available, and the substantial investment involved. Research is key. As such, you need to know which factors to consider and learn how to choose kitchen cabinets that are worth the price. 

How to choose kitchen cabinets. Interior of modern kitchen cabinets with gray and white walls, grey countertops and wooden cupboards.

It is important to ensure that the cabinets you choose will bring you long-term satisfaction. However, choosing kitchen cabinets suitable for your home can be challenging.

The experts at the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommend that you peruse everything from top-of-the-line custom designs to unfinished stock items. By seeing the range of quality and costs out there, you’ll be able to budget for those handmade pulls you must have while avoiding the pricey upgrades you can live without.

In this comprehensive guide, we will show you the best smart cabinet and countertop ideas that you might want to check out. We are going to address various aspects of what you should consider when choosing kitchen cabinets for your home. 

Types of Kitchen Cabinets

Types of Kitchen Cabinets

When choosing kitchen cabinetry and flooring, you should consider not just the aesthetics of your house but also the functionality it adds to the structure itself.

Your preferred design should always be based on the size of your kitchen, the area where it’s located, and the color theme of your house. 

There are a lot of modernized designs for kitchen cabinetry nowadays. There are lots options to Choose Kitchen Cabinets. In this section, we’ll cover 3 of the most popular types of kitchen cabinets for 2023 which are as follows:

1. Flat Panel Kitchen Cabinets

The most popular cabinetry style that came in the early 2010s is the flat panel door style. It is usually the design you will see in commercial residences such as condominiums and hotels. It is also the typical design for office pantries and mall kitchenette displays.

Flat panel kitchen cabinets have solid slabs for handles and doors for their cabinets and drawers. The dimensional designs on the cabinet faces give off a traditional vibe while the flat panel door style adds an awesome modern twist to it. 

This makes it well-suited for suburban homes as it has that clean masculine aura to it. Its edges and counters are unique, and it doesn’t overpower the style of the entire home. It is also a great design if you want to showcase new eye-catching hardware. Choose Kitchen Cabinets in your way!

2. Shaker Kitchen Cabinets

Shaker cabinets are famous for their horizontal rails on the top and bottom of each partition. They also have stiles and a study center panel. Meanwhile, the shaker doors are minimalist flats and their handles are subtle and don’t take up a lot of visual space.

Today, shaker cabinetry is popular for minimalist homes in the contemporary or suburban scene. It is best for family homes because of its simple design that gives off a nostalgic vibe. It is also often comes with large kitchen equipment such as built-in refrigerators and gas range spaces. Choose Kitchen Cabinets with refrigerator inside.

3. Base Kitchen Cabinets

Base cabinets are permanent installations in residential homes. They’re built from the bottom up, with the base installed from the floor and not on the wall. This type of modern kitchen cabinetry is the type that should be pre-planned. This means it should be a part of the home’s blueprint design. 

However, you can still remodel your kitchen with this type of cabinet, but it may be costly and may affect the plumbing system in the kitchen. So, be careful on how to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Base kitchen cabinets look best in contemporary settings. This type of fixture is permanently attached to the wall while the cabinets are often made of wood and glass. Also, the countertop is usually made with sturdy Mahogany or textile options.

Kitchen Cabinets Interior Storage Designs

Kitchen Cabinets Interior Storage Designs

Decorating and building your home kitchen doesn’t just stop at Choose Kitchen Cabinets and flooring. Despite being hidden, the functionality of your kitchen is based on how you organize its interior. 

In this section, we’ll give you tips on how to efficiently design and manage your kitchen cabinet interior storage. They’re as follows:

  • Use turntables inside your cabinets to maximize your space and make your empty areas even more functional. You can use turntables for keeping utensils or for organizing spices.
  • The inner sides of your cabinets are usually empty and very spacious. You may always opt to add hooks, rails, and small DIY shelves inside to make use of the space. They won’t ruin the aesthetic of the kitchen since they’re practically hidden inside.
  • You may want to make use of the empty underside of your kitchen shelves. You can install hooks and hang your favorite mugs that you want to show off. This will make your kitchen space look alive, and it’s also a great way to install decorations in that area.
  • Storing china and big platters can be challenging because they are the ones that take up the most space in your kitchen. To deal with that, you can purchase storing boards and keep them intact with your drawers so that your precious china collection will be safe every time you pull the drawers out.
  • Dish racks are really helpful in organizing a kitchen, but sometimes, they may ruin the look of the area, especially if it’s exposed. What you can do to keep your kitchen looking clean and organized is to keep the racks inside high cabinets. Don’t place them near the sink or somewhere on the countertop. However, if you need them most of the time, you can just allot a space in an accessible drawer where you can keep the dishes and utensils you need frequently.

Kitchen Cabinet Organization Tips

Kitchen Cabinet Organization Tips

Creating a kitchen organization system is a must. It is developed based on how you and the people living inside your home spend their time in that area. Some will ask for professional interior designers to custom-build them functional kitchen styles that will sustain the orderliness of their kitchen. 

However, it doesn’t have to be as complicated and as costly as that. You can always do it yourself and maintain the system during the process. So, Choose Kitchen Cabinets in your way.

Here are some kitchen decorating tips that will surely help you in reorganizing your kitchen:

Declutter

Out with the old, and in with the new. You may still be keeping old recipe books and torn-apart food magazines on your kitchen cabinets which you haven’t seen in ages. Well, it’s about time to let go of those and keep a clean and fresh drawer organization system. 

You can always keep cookbooks in your kitchen but make sure that they’re useful and that they are kept securely. They can be a part of the kitchen’s design by giving them a little book rack on the counter side or at the bar of your kitchen.

Upgrade 

What makes a kitchen eye-catching and modern is when it has the latest gadgets and appliances. It may be costly, but if you’re really into investing in your home, maybe it’s about time to give up on your old equipment and replace them with new ones.

Sanitize 

It is important that your kitchen is the cleanest and most pristine place in the house. Make sure that you have a proper garbage system in and outside of your home. There are also ways to keep your kitchen smelling clean by installing exhaust fans, decorating it with air freshening ornaments, and keeping the trash properly sealed. 

Make sure that your food stock is also properly organized to avoid food waste and spoilage. One of the important task to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Use a To-Go Bowl 

Ever noticed that small bowl in the center of office tables and hotel lobby desks? It is the to-go bowl which usually holds candies and finger snacks for customers and clients to chew up. 

Keeping this type of bowl on your kitchen counter is a good idea, especially if you’re living with your family or if you usually have visitors in the house. Pick a nice bowl and just refill it with goodies if someone comes over. It’s a nice welcome and a cute functional décor too.

Kitchen Cabinet Styles and Designs

Kitchen Cabinet Styles and Designs

If you’re new to home decorating and are in need of a guide on how to choose what design is best for you, then you are in the right place. There are a lot of different kitchen cabinet designs that you can find on the internet and even in home magazines. 

In this section, we’re going to have a look at the most popular kitchen cabinet styles and designs on the market. Choose Kitchen Cabinets among them! These are as follows:

Traditional

Traditional

The most distinguishing feature of a traditional kitchen is the way its cabinets and doors are structured. Usually, it has laminated countertops and is paired with hardwood floorings. It also has painted cabinets and its doors can be made with glass or wood. 

The traditional cabinet style is elegant and can suit any type of home design. They’re usually seen in suburban and contemporary areas, and there are also a lot of fine dining and exclusive restaurants that still adapt this style. 

After all, it never goes out of style as it gives off that homey and cozy vibe on any establishment it is in. Specially, you can Choose Kitchen Cabinets in this way.

Modern

Modern

Modern kitchen cabinet styles such as the shaker cabinet are the most popular designs being used today. They’re suitable for every type of kitchen and are famous for their simple doors that are paneled and noticeably edged. 

Lighting is also an important feature of modern kitchens to Choose Kitchen Cabinets. Big hanging lamps in geometric designs can be installed just above the kitchen counter for a good lighting effect. 

Modern designs are usually dark-hued and make use of brass hardware. They’re best for masculine pads and make the best fit for modern homes. Moreover, they look strikingly clean and are far less dramatic than other kitchen designs.

Transitional

Transitional

From the word itself, the transitional kitchen design is a hybrid between traditional and modern kitchen styles. It is an adaptive mix that offers the best of both worlds. Its cabinets are famous for their streamlined profile, and the recessed style of its doors can complement any interior. 

Transitional kitchen cabinets are often made of wood.

If you’re looking for that hint of modernity but still want to keep things homey and classy, the transitional design is the one for you. You can never go wrong with this style, and you can even mix up light and dark tones. 

You can get ideas online or you can hire an interior designer to help you make the best design out of it. In this way, you can Choose Kitchen Cabinets in fancy ways.

Rustic

Rustic

Rustic designs always have that fun and chill vibes. Nowadays, apart from modern kitchen styles, rustic designs are also becoming a more popular choice. They combine classic and modern cabinetry by mixing and matching wood elements to lacquered materials. 

A rustic kitchen looks really comforting, and applying the design to your own kitchen space can easily make it pop as the best area in your home. You can either pair it with rustic flooring or a modern tile setting of your choice. 

Rustic countertops are best at keeping classy pot collections and displaying special dish racks on their glass-walled cabinets. Choose Kitchen Cabinets keeping this in mind.

For rustic kitchens, there can never be too many ornaments. You can always add indoor plants or fun signage and decorations around the area to achieve that rustic look. Overall, this particular kitchen design works best for public kitchens (restaurants, small businesses, and fast food chains).

However, the design is also now being adapted for home usage as well.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials

Kitchen Cabinet Materials

Selecting the right material for your kitchen cabinets is crucial to make sure that you can achieve functionality and aesthetic appeal. Cabinets can come in various materials, and each of them has its own pros and cons. 

To Choose Kitchen Cabinets, lets dig into materials. That said, here are the most common types of materials used to construct cabinets:

Solid Wood Cabinets

Solid wood cabinets are a classic and timeless choice for kitchen cabinets, especially for homeowners who want to maintain a natural look. This material is long-lasting, durable, and can be easily repaired.

Solid wood cabinets are made from various hardwoods including birch, cherry, oak, and maple. They are also available in various finishes such as glazed, painted, and stained. However, they can be expensive when compared to other materials, and they also need regular maintenance to conserve their appearance.

MDF Cabinets

Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is a material made from wood fibers and resin. This material is popular for kitchen cabinets because of its versatility, affordability, and smooth surface. It is also available in various finishes such as veneer, paint, and laminate.

MDF is resistant to shrinking and warping but is susceptible to moisture damage. It is hard to repair if dented and is also not as durable as solid wood. Be careful when to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Plywood Cabinets

Plywood cabinets are famous for being strong and durable because of the thin material which is made from thin layers of wood glued together. This material is resistant to warping and is also affordable. You can also apply various finishes to this material such as laminates, and veneers.

The only downside of plywood is that it is not as natural as solid wood and that it’s vulnerable to moisture damage. You can also note some visible seams in the finish.

Metal Cabinets

Metal cabinets provide a stylish and modern option for kitchen cabinets. They are made from materials such as stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. The best part about them is that they can last long, are durable, and are resistant to heat and moisture.

Metal cabinets are easy to maintain and clean. You can choose to have various finishes including matte, polished, and brushed. However, you should be aware that this material is expensive and fingerprint scratches may show on the finishes.

Overall, the best cabinet material for your kitchen will be based on your preferences, budget, and maintenance requirements. All you need to do is to consider the pros and cons of each material before making your final decision to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Kitchen Cabinet Finishes

Kitchen Cabinet Finishes

There are various types of finishes for kitchen cabinets including stained wood, painted wood, and laminate. Let’s have a look at each of them:

Stained Wood

The stained wood finish brings out the natural appearance of the wood. This finish is a thin layer of stain to the wood that seeps through inside the grain to enhance its character and color. 

You can choose various colors for stained wood finishes. For instance, if you want to find a shade that will match your oak cabinets, you can choose between light and dark colors.

After an application, a stained wood finish usually has a warm inviting look. It is relatively durable but can be prone to dents and scratches. However, repair the blemishes using a touch-up stain. Nonetheless, you should avoid exposing it to humidity to avoid warping.

For maintenance, you can use a soft damp piece of cloth with mild soap to wipe it. Also, apply furniture polish occasionally to maintain the sheen.

Try this to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Painted Wood Finish

The painted wood finish is famous to many homeowners because of the uniform sleek look that it offers and its versatility to complement different designs. The finish is to make a thin layer of paint to the wood which can be customized to match any color outline.

Painted wood finish has an even smooth appearance with a matte sheen or a glossy one depending on the type of paint applied. This is meant to give your cabinets a fresh updated look.

Paint wood finishes are relatively durable but can be susceptible to scratching and chipping. However, a touch-up can easily conceal the blemishes, though it is crucial to avoid exposure to excessive heat and moisture since the paint can peel off.

Painted wood finish requires regular maintenance with a soft damp piece of cloth and mild detergent. keep in mind to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Laminate finish

The laminate finish is a pocket-friendly option that offers various patterns and colors. If you want to have this finish on your cabinets, you can apply a thin layer of plastic laminate on the surface of the cabinet. The final look will be similar to stone, wood, or any other material.

The look of laminate on the surface of the cabinet is a smooth even appearance with a matte or glossy sheen. If you are looking for a contemporary look, you should go for this finish.

The laminate finish is highly durable and resistant to stains and scratches. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it an ideal option for a busy kitchen. You can even apply furniture polish to maintain the sheen and use a piece of a soft cloth and mild soap while cleaning.

Kitchen Cabinet Boxes and Doors

Kitchen Cabinet Boxes and Doors

The right wood for cabinet boxes and doors will influence the functionality of your kitchen and its overall look. Here are some of the most common types of kitchen wood used on cabinet boxes and doors:

Oak

Oak is popular because it is durable, strong, and relatively cheap. It provides prominent grain patterns that can be in various finishes to provide a natural to dark stain. Oak cabinets are trendy in many traditional kitchen designs.

Maple

Maple is a popular type of wood for kitchen cabinet doors. It provides a uniform grain pattern with a smooth texture. This hardwood can easily be painted or stained to match your kitchen style.

Cherry 

Cherry is a beautiful and expensive wood that is popular for its rich color and grain patterns. Its reddish-brown warm color deepens with the age of the tree and exposure to light. You will find cabinet doors made of this type of wood in traditional and formal kitchen designs.

Birch

Birch is a light-colored hardwood that is known for its versatility and affordability. Its straight grain patterns provide a fine smooth texture. Birch doors can easily be stained and painted to match the kitchen décor of either modern or traditional kitchen style.

Another factor you should consider when it comes to kitchen cabinets and doors is the design which can be categorized into the following:

Standard Overlay

The standard overlay is the most common type of cabinet door design. The frame in this style is partially visible with a left-out space between the door and drawers. This design allows for more decorative features to be added.

Full Overlay 

On the other hand, a full overlay is common in contemporary and modern kitchen designs. The frame in this style is totally hidden with a small gap between the drawers and the doors. This design is simpler and much more streamlined.

Shaker

Shaker cabinet doors have cabinet frames that are partly visible with a gap between drawers and doors. They provide a simple classic design with a flat panel and frame.

Open Frame

Open-frame cabinet doors are mainly used for modern kitchen design. The cabinet frame in this case is hidden with doors and drawers replaced by open shelving or glass panels. This design is used to showcase decorative items or utensils.

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware refers to functional small pieces on cabinet drawers and doors. These include knobs, handles, and pulls. Each of them functions differently.

Knobs

Knobs are round pieces to the front of the cabinet drawers and doors. They are usually in materials such as ceramic, metal, and wood. Usually, they only require a screwdriver to install.

Knobs are essential because they make grasping the doors and drawers of a cabinet easier. They can also add beauty to the look of the cabinet door. They’re ideal for a traditional or contemporary look and a good choice for smaller cabinets.

Handles

Handles, also referred to as cabinet pulls, are elongated and usually installed horizontally. They come in various styles and sizes, and they come from various materials such as wood and metal.

Handles are most suitable for larger cabinets and drawers that require more grip and pull. Handles come in various styles such as brushed nickel, chrome, and bronze

Pulls

Pulls are similar to handles but have a more decorative appearance and are larger. They can be installed either horizontally or vertically. They are ideal for larger drawers and cabinets, though they’re usually useful for bulky and heavy items.

The installation of the above kitchen cabinetry hardware depends on the size and the material used to make the cabinet. Handles and pulls will require two screws for installations and need a careful installation process to align well to ensure a streamlined appearance. 

They also need to have a back plate that will prevent the cabinet from getting damaged.

Kitchen Cabinet Accessories

Kitchen Cabinet Accessories

Kitchen cabinet accessories provide additional storage, organization, or convenience. They include lazy Susans, pullout shelves, drawer dividers, and roll-out trays.

Pullout shelves

Pullout shelves are an ideal way to maximize space in your kitchen. They are installed inside the cabinet to be pulled out like a drawer in order to access contents inside the cabinet without bending down. You can use them to store pots, small appliances, and pantry items.

If you have pull out shelves, you will notice that they also provide a better view of the items kept in the cabinet. To effectively install a pullout shelf, you have to ensure that the cabinet has enough space to accommodate the shelf and its mounting bracket.

When storing items inside the shelf also consider their size and weight to avoid damaging them. keep this in mind to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Lazy Susans

Lazy Susans are rotating trays that are built inside cabinets. They are great for maximizing space and making it easier to reach items that are stored at a distance. You can use them to store items such as condiments, baking supplies, and spices.

The biggest advantage of lazy Susans is their capacity to maximize storage space and reduce the need to bend down. They also provide a better view of the items that are kept inside.

However, you will need to have a mounting bracket to install the lazy Susans effectively. But before that, you have to ensure that the cabinet is big enough to accommodate these accessories. Also, you need to avoid storing items that surpass the strength of your lazy Susans.

Drawer Dividers

Drawer dividers are a great way to organize and create separate compartments for accessories and utensils. You can use these drawers to store knives, spoons, and other utensils separately. As such, you will have an easy time finding them when you want to use them.

Drawer dividers are essential for homeowners who want to keep their kitchen utensils more organized. They help in preventing tangling and damage to the utensils and maximizing the drawer space.

You will need adhesives and screws to install drawer dividers, and you should ensure that the dividers will fit well in the drawer. 

Rollout Trays

Rollout trays also help in maximizing your cabinet space. They are installed inside cabinets to slide out so you can easily access the items kept inside. They can be used for storing pantry items, small appliances, pans, and pots.

Due to their design, they can provide a better view of your utensils and reduce strain on your knees and back since you can easily access your items.

Rollout trays will require a mounting bracket for installation. Therefore, make sure to take the measurements properly to ensure that the tray and the mounting bracket will fit in well. However, don’t put too heavy items inside to avoid any damage.

When selecting kitchen cabinet accessories, think about your storage needs and the layout of your kitchen. With the right accessories, you can make the most of your cabinet space and make sure you can keep your kitchen organized and functional.

Kitchen Cabinet Sizes and Dimensions

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Custom kitchen cabinets can be built in any size you want. However, if you purchase pre-assembled or ready-to-assemble cabinets, you will be restricted by standard dimensions that nearly all makers adhere to.

This is usually not an issue because cabinets typically come in a wide variety of standard sizes. While there are no hard and fast rules about what is right and wrong, there are a few general recommendations to follow so that everything is proportional and well positioned on your cabinets.

Key factors are:
  • Base Cabinets
    Base kitchen cabinets are the type of cabinet that is placed directly on the kitchen floor. They are the workhorse of kitchen cabinets because they can accommodate sinks, dishwashers, and countertops. 

    Almost all base cabinets are 34 1/2 inches tall from the manufacturer. After placing a countertop, the final height of most base cabinets will be roughly 36 inches.

    Conversely, the width of base cabinets varies greatly. Depending on the usage, the standard kitchen base width varies from 9 to 48 inches. A base cabinet with a diameter of 30 inches, for example, is ideal for a single-basin sink.
  • Wall Cabinets
    Wall cupboard heights range from 12 to 42 inches.  Where cabinets extend all the way up to the kitchen ceiling, 48-inch cabinets are the easy option. A wall cabinet with 12-inch tall, on the other hand, perfectly fits above a refrigerator.

    The widths of wall cabinets range from 9 to 48 inches. Nonetheless, the 30-inch width wall cabinet is more typical, with enough space to satisfy most households’ storage demands.

    Usually, wall cabinets are 12 inches in depth. This is due to the fact that it can’t go past the depth of the base cabinets. But, because most refrigerators are more than 24 inches deep, wall cabinets positioned above the refrigerator are an exception.
  • Tall Cabinets
    Tall cabinets are frequently used as pantry storage. They usually have appliance shelves along with additional storage space to help you make the most of your kitchen area.

    In a normal 8-foot room, a 96-inch tall cabinet will reach from floor to ceiling. An 84-inch tall cupboard, on the other hand, is only about a foot from the ceiling, allowing for some breathing space.

    Tall cabinets typically range in breadth from 12 to 36 inches. The 12-inch tall storage cabinet is the narrowest, but it can also contain more items if you outfit it with storage accessories.
The main reason you should be aware of the numerous kitchen cabinet sizes is to effectively organize your kitchen space.

The main reason you should be aware of the numerous kitchen cabinet sizes is to effectively organize your kitchen space. Not understanding about choosing kitchen cabinet pull size can be costly because you may end up purchasing a non-functional cabinet.

Keep in mind that every inch matters to Choose Kitchen Cabinets. While kitchen cabinets may appear to be the same, they each have unique characteristics that improve the way you make food. As a result, it’s always useful to learn more about them, particularly their tall, width, and depth.

Lighting for Kitchen Cabinets

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There are a few general guidelines to keep in mind when considering kitchen cabinet lighting ideas. The sections below will walk you through the key factors of lighting kitchen cabinets, and from there you can determine which approach works best for your space.

  • Bar Lights
    Because they are customizable and linkable, bar lights are one of the most popular kinds of under-cabinet lighting. Furthermore, LED bar lights emit little to no heat, making it comfortable to work in your kitchen under them.
  • Puck Lights
    Puck lights come in a variety of colors and shapes. Because some are battery-powered, you can simply peel the adhesive backing and place them wherever you want to have them completely functional under cabinet illumination.
  • Rope Lights
    Rope lights are an adaptable lighting option that can be used as both décor and accent lighting. Although these lights are bendable, avoid stretching them beyond their capacity or the plastic casing will be damaged.
  • LED Strip Lights
    LED under-cabinet lighting is very efficient, but the light it produces is not as natural as other choices. They are also flexible and simple to put in place, similar to rope lights.

When it comes to kitchen cabinet lighting, you must balance your lighting to suit all corners. Cabinet lighting might offer the best value for your kitchen. A well-planned cabinet lighting system can completely change the mood and atmosphere of a kitchen.

Custom vs. Stock Cabinets

Choose Kitchen Cabinets

Installing new cabinetry is an ideal place to begin if you are a homeowner planning to create and remodel your kitchen. Before deciding on which cabinets to purchase, you should first learn the distinction between custom vs stock cabinets.

  • Custom Cabinets
    With custom cabinets, you can add unique features and detailed craftsmanship. However, because custom cabinets are made to order, they take longer to complete and tend to be more costly.
  • Stock Cabinets
    With stock cabinets, you save both time and money. Because they are mass-produced and ready to use, they can be set up as soon as the crew arrives to complete the work.

The type of cabinet you should buy depends on your current situation and future goals. Stock cabinets are more affordable, but they have fewer options. If you cannot find stock cabinets that meet your requirements, custom cabinets may be a good option for you.

Budgeting for Kitchen Cabinets

Choose Kitchen Cabinets

While the cost of installing kitchen cabinets varies depending on the project, the average homeowner will pay at least $3,200 for an affordable kitchen cabinet in an average-sized kitchen. In the case of a larger-scale kitchen remodel, the expense could reach $8,500.

Furthermore, the ultimate installation cost is determined by the materials used and the dimensions of your kitchen. Stock kitchen cabinets typically cost around $200 per square foot. Bespoke cabinets, on the other hand, can cost up to an exorbitant price of $1,200 per square foot. 

Another element to consider is labor cost. A professional contractor’s labor expense to install kitchen cabinets typically ranges between $80 and $190 per cabinet. This cost includes the preparation and cleaning procedures.

Many cabinet installers and contractors will include the cost of removing old cabinets in the total project cost. Hiring a handyman may be less expensive, but it may end up costing much more if the work is not up to standard and must be redone.

Overall, if you want the most affordable cabinets and countertops you should buy stock cabinets and install them yourself.

Furthermore, even if they are labeled as ‘stock’, there are so many choices available that allow you to find something that suits both your budget and your personal style.

How to Prepare Before Visiting a Cabinet Shop

Choose Kitchen Cabinets

Price, size, and material are all factors to consider when selecting cabinets for a kitchen makeover. So, whatever your budget, keep reading for essential information that will help you ensure you’re purchasing kitchen cabinets that meet your needs.

  • Size
    So, before you go anywhere for new cabinets, be certain that you have the precise measurements of your current kitchen. It’s difficult to create an exact plan without the measurements.

    If you don’t trust yourself to take these precise measurements, most shops provide a free measurement service. This is a fantastic perk that should be taken advantage of ahead of the date you have in mind for purchasing cabinets.
  • Color
    Matching kitchen cabinets with your color scheme can have an impact on everything from how you feel to your desire to eat, as well as the impression you get of your kitchen. If you have a big space and want to make it appear cozier, use darker colors. Light hues, on the other hand, are ideal for a small kitchen when choosing kitchen cabinet color.
Others:
  • Material
    Choosing a well-crafted cupboard demands a thorough understanding of various materials. After all, it is the most obvious and distinguishing feature of kitchen cabinetry. 

    Many manufacturers favor plywood cabinets not only due to the fact it is a low-cost product but also because it has been shown to be more resistant to moisture. For additional protection, the outside is coated with an exposed resin laminate, timber veneer, or thermofoil.
  • Construction Style
    There are framed and unframed cabinets, which adds another factor to consider. Framed cabinets are those that have a box support that rests over the cabinet structure to support it. The box is there to contribute strength and durability.

    Frameless cabinets, as the name suggests, lack an additional frame on the cabinet structure. If you’re planning a more modern kitchen remodel, this might be the better choice.

    When it comes to cabinet structure style, choosing the cabinet hinges is also an essential consideration. Butt hinges are a type of hinge that is commonly used on internal and exterior doors.
  • Budget
    Kitchen cabinets can consume up to 50% of the budget allocated for kitchen remodeling. The lowest price bracket typically goes to unassembled cabinets.  The price usually includes shipping and handling, but it’s wise to double-check with your dealer.

Kitchen Cabinet Installation/DIY Friendliness

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If you make sure that your new cabinetry is correctly installed, it will serve you well in the long run. From measuring the area to figuring out what tools are needed to adding the final touches, here are the steps to DIY kitchen cabinet installation in your home.

  • Getting The Right Tools
    Many do-it-yourselfers run the risk of improper cabinet installation, which could have been prevented with the right tools. A tape measure, electric drill, and laser level are all essential instruments for cabinet installation.
  • Marking The Wall
    Draw a straight line across the highest point of the base cupboards. Then, on the wall, label the position of the wall cabinets and kitchen appliances. Finally, as you start the kitchen cabinet installation job, mark the stud locations.
  • Installing The Upper and Base Cabinets
    This step will differ based on the cabinet you chose. Even so, it is best to detach the doors and drawers from your completed cabinets before installing them. 

    Start by placing the upper cabinets on a ledger block to guarantee a nice, straight alignment. After you’ve completed the top cabinets, you can continue on to the base cabinets.

    Use your level to ensure the cabinet is properly fitted. Place the next cabinet and clamp it to the previously fitted corner cabinet. Continue with this process until all cabinets are screwed into position.
  • Putting on Doors and Drawers
    Now that all of your cabinets are in position, it’s time to mount the doors and drawers! Once they are in position, check for leveling and make any necessary adjustments. 

    The finishing element is the hardware. If you’re not sure where to place the knobs and pulls, place a piece of reusable adhesive on the doors and drawers and tinker with different spots.

Maintenance and Care for Kitchen Cabinets

Maintenance and Care for Kitchen Cabinets Choose Kitchen Cabinets

Proper maintenance is the key to maintaining your kitchen cabinets looking and working extraordinarily well. Regular maintenance will also improve the appeal of the area. Try the steps below to ensure that your cabinets last a long time.

  • Wiping
    If a spill happens, immediately wipe it up with a wet towel or sponge. To remove the substance, quickly dry the surface and use a blotting motion instead of a wiping motion. This advice is especially important if you choose painting kitchen white.
  • Polishing
    After cleaning, use a furniture polish to give your wood cabinets a buffed sheen. Polishes contain gentle detergents and you can apply with a soft cloth. Polishing your cabinets on a regular basis will leave a protective layer of mineral oil on them, extending their lifespan.
  • Minimizing Moisture
    Moisture is one of the most damaging elements to any cabinet material or finish. So, avoid hanging wet fabrics over cabinets because prolonged water contact will harm the finish and could result in stains.

Conclusion

Choosing kitchen cabinets can completely change the appearance and feel of your space. Thus, it is necessary to understand the differences between cabinet materials, sizes, and types in order to select those that best suit your requirements and styles.

Use the above guidance whenever you need advice on how to choose kitchen cabinets. This information will assist you in deciding which kitchen cabinet type to go with, as well as assist your cabinet maker in providing you with all of the required information.

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