Understanding the Cost of a New Kitchen: Labor and Material Breakdown

Installing a new kitchen is a significant investment, and understanding the cost of kitchen cabinets installation is crucial when planning your budget. Kitchen cabinets are one of the most expensive elements when renovating the kitchen, but because of what they bring to functionality and style, they are often one of the most considered renovations. 

In the following post, we will break down exactly how much it costs to install kitchen cabinets, discussing labor and material costs. In this way, by developing a more precise picture of where exactly your money is going, you will be better prepared to design a kitchen remodel with your financial objectives and design vision in mind.

The Cost of Kitchen Cabinets Installation: Key Factors to Consider

The cost of kitchen cabinets installation depends on several factors, including the type of cabinets you choose, the quality of materials, and the complexity of the installation process. Understanding these elements can help you better estimate your overall renovation costs.

• Cabinet Materials: All kinds of materials are used to make kitchen cabinets, ranging from inexpensive MDF or laminate to expensive hardwood and plywood. Each of these materials falls into a different price category that will affect the overall cost of your kitchen renovation.
• Cabinet Type: Generally, cabinets can be grouped into three categories: stock, semi-custom, and custom. Stock cabinets are mass-manufactured in standard sizes, hence the cheapest. Semi-custom cabinets allow for a certain level of customization at a mid-range price. Custom cabinets are those which are built to your exact specification and hence generally come with a premium price attached.
• Installation Complexity: The design and layout of your kitchen can affect labor costs. For example, complex layouts or irregular spaces may require additional labor, which raises the cost of kitchen cabinet installation

Now that we’ve highlighted the key factors, let’s break down labor and material costs in more detail. Besides you can check this website. This site offers detailed estimates for various home improvement services, including kitchen cabinets 

Material Costs: What You Need to Know

The type of materials you choose for your kitchen cabinets will significantly impact the cost of installation. Let’s take a closer look at the most common cabinet materials and their average price ranges.

• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): MDF is one of the most economical types of materials used in kitchen cabinets. It is constituted of wood fibers that have been bonded under pressure, with the result of a smooth and even surface suitable for painting. Typically, MDF cabinets will range from $100 to $300 per linear foot installed.
• Laminate: Laminate cabinets are made by adding a thin veneer of plastic over MDF or particleboard. It’s sleek, modern-looking, and it usually gives you good style at an affordable price, ranging from about $150 to $400 per linear foot installed.
• Plywood: Compared to MDF, plywood cabinets are stronger and more durable. Most cabinet boxes are made from plywood since they have characteristics that resist moisture. Plywood cabinets cost $300-$600 per lineal foot installed, which falls into the mid-range category.
• Solid Wood: Hardwood cabinets, such as maple, cherry, or oak, offer a premium look and exceptional durability. However, they are also among the most expensive, with prices ranging from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot installed.

Choosing the right material for your kitchen cabinets is essential, as it not only impacts the overall look and feel of your kitchen but also plays a large role in determining the cost of installation. 

Labor Costs: How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Labor cost is another important component in calculating the cost of installed kitchen cabinets. To function properly and last long, the kitchen cabinets must be aligned and leveled, and securely fastened in place; therefore, professional installation is preferred. Here is what you should know about labor:

• Stock Cabinets: Installation Stock cabinets are the quickest and easiest to set up, as it would take just a day or two. The general average range of labor used for installing stock cabinets costs around $50 to $100 per cabinet, or basically around $1,500 to $3,000 for an average kitchen.
• Semi-Custom Cabinets: Since semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility in terms of design and size, they can take a bit longer to install. Labor costs for semi-custom cabinets generally range from $75 to $150 per cabinet or $2,000 to $4,500 for an average-sized kitchen.
• Custom Cabinets: Custom cabinets are made to order based on the specific design of your kitchen. This will provide a perfect fit and allow for unique features but it also takes the most time and requires the most skill to install. The labor costs for custom cabinets range from $100 to $250 per cabinet, with total installation costs for an average kitchen ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 or more.

When budgeting for the cost of  installation, it’s essential to account for labor as well as materials. Skilled labor is crucial to ensuring that your new cabinets are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and built to last.

Additional Costs: Don’t Forget the Extras

In addition to the basic material and labor costs, there are several other factors that can influence the total cost of kitchen cabinets installed. Be sure to budget for the following extras:

• Cabinet Hardware: Handles and knobs and pulls are small items, but they can add up quickly. Average cabinet hardware ranges from $2 to $20 per piece, although the total price depends on the number of cabinets in your kitchen.
• Moldings and Trim: Crown molding, toe kicks, and other types of trim will add an attractiveness to your kitchen but also add to the overall cost. These types of decorations can add anywhere from $5 to $15 per linear foot in addition to the total cost of installation.
• Lighting: Under-cabinet lighting has become a very popular feature for both functionality and ambiance in today’s kitchens. The cost for installing under-cabinet lighting ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the type and number of fixtures installed.
• Demolition and Disposal:If you’re replacing existing cabinets, then you have to budget for the removal of old cabinets and disposal of debris. Demolition generally costs from $300 to $1,000, depending on the size of the kitchen.
• Permits and Inspections: If your kitchen remodel involves structural changes or electrical/plumbing work, you may need to obtain permits from your local government. Permit fees typically range from $100 to $500, depending on the scope of the project.

Taking these additional costs into account will give you a more accurate estimate of the cost of installation and help you avoid any budget surprises.

How to Save on the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets Installation

While installing kitchen cabinets can be expensive, there are several strategies you can use to reduce costs without sacrificing quality:

1. Opt for Stock or RTA Cabinets: You can save a ton of money by going with either stock cabinets or RTA cabinets instead of custom cabinets. Both stock and RTA cabinets are mass-produced, thereby much cheaper but carrying a lot of styles and finishes.
2. DIY Installation: If you’re handy and have the time, installing your kitchen cabinets for your average sized kitchen yourself can save on labor costs. However, if you do this, be aware that proper installation is crucial to make sure cabinets last long and are functional, thus this option is recommended only to experienced DIYers.
3. Shop for Sales and Discounts: Many retailers offer seasonal sales, promotions, or discounts on kitchen cabinets. Be sure to shop around and compare prices to find the best deal.
4. Reuse Existing Cabinets: If your existing cabinets are in good condition, consider refinishing or refacing them instead of replacing them entirely. This can save thousands of dollars while still giving your kitchen a fresh new look.

Cost of Kitchen Cabinets Installed

Understanding the true cost of installed kitchen cabinets means both material and labor costs counted. One can think of budgeting in detail with the type of cabinet, materials, complications in installation, and other features.

Be it stock cabinets, semi-custom ones, or fully custom cabinets, a well-planned and wisely taken decision may fetch you your dream kitchen without blowing a budget. Investing in high-quality cabinets is essential for a functional and stylish kitchen, but it doesn’t mean you have to overspend.

With the right approach, you can enjoy a beautiful kitchen while keeping the cost within your budget Once you are ready to begin learning more about the price of installed kitchen cabinets, a reliable supplier will need to be found at a point in time.

You are going to want a company offering superior materials that can be customized for your taste in design. For example, Upstate Kitchen & Bath produces hardy, expertly-made cabinets that will be tailored to your particular needs. 

Be it just replacing all the cabinets or doing a whole kitchen renovation, having found a good supplier will ensure satisfaction with your investment.

Contact Upstate kitchen & Bath today at +1 (864) 497-2319, or email info@upstateknb.com or visit their website for professional advice on the best cabinets for your kitchen remodel.