Cabinet installation is a significant investment, and it’s essential to consider all costs involved before hiring professionals. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and additional features like pull-out shelves or Lazy Susans.
Also, remember that installing ready-to-assemble cabinets takes more time for installers and will add to the project’s overall price.
Materials
The level of customization and the type of material cabinets are made from will impact cabinet installation costs. Solid wood cabinets are the most expensive, while laminate and thermofoil are more cost-effective options that still look like wood.
The size of the kitchen also impacts the cabinet installation cost. Larger kitchens require more cabinets than smaller ones.
Add-ons like shelving, pull-out spice racks, and wine racks may also drive up costs. The type of hardware used will also make a difference, as some are more expensive than others.
It’s important to consider any unforeseen expenses before making a final cabinet budget. This includes any repair work or adjustments required during the installation process.
Labor
Cabinet installation is labor-intensive and requires specialized skills, tools, and measurement and construction techniques knowledge. Hiring a professional ensures a quality job that prevents costly errors and saves time.
Labor rates vary by geographic area, but a cabinet installer average charges between $40 and $100 per hour. You can save money on labor costs by purchasing stock cabinets from home improvement stores, including installation costs.
Consider hiring a trim carpenter or handyman specializing in cabinet installation for a more expensive renovation. These professionals charge higher rates but offer a more skilled, precise, and efficient service. They are also ideal for custom or intricate cabinet designs. If your kitchen remodeling plans involve changing existing plumbing or electrical connections, you’ll also need a plumber or electrician. Check with your local building department to see whether a permit is required for your project.
Additional Features
Cabinetry costs continue when customers decide what they want to purchase and the style they want their kitchen to look like. Additional features like door styles and finishes add to the project’s overall cost.
Other design options, such as whether cabinets are framed or frameless, also affect the price. Framed cabinets require more time and skill to install than the less complicated frameless construction. Additionally, if a client selects plywood over particle board, they should expect the final costs to be higher.
Finally, cabinetry hardware such as drawer pulls and knobs add to the total cost of the project. It’s important to point these out to customers so they understand the added expense.
Permits
If you change the layout, you may need to relocate plumbing or electrical systems when replacing cabinets. This could add to the cost of cabinet installation. The plumbing and electrical professionals must take measurements and ensure everything is installed correctly.
Homeowners also may need to dispose of old cabinets, which is a significant expense. Some companies will recycle or donate them for you, while others require that homeowners haul them away.
In addition, if you want to install features such as lazy susans or pull-out shelves, this will also increase the project’s price. You will also need to pay for installing countertops, backsplashes, and flooring if upgrading those. All these upgrades are additional expenses you should consider when getting a quote from your installer.
