Introduction
Kitchen renovations can be expensive, with the cost of new cabinets being one of the largest line items in the budget. The style and quality of kitchen cabinets largely determine the look and functionality of the space. However, there are ways to get beautiful, functional cabinets without breaking the bank.
With some savvy shopping and design decisions, it’s possible to reduce the cost of kitchen cabinets significantly. This allows you to splurge in other areas like countertops or appliances. Here are 8 great ways to get high-quality kitchen cabinets for less.
Choose Stock Cabinets
Custom-built cabinets are one of the most expensive options for kitchen remodeling. Stock cabinets cost 20-50% less than custom cabinetry. Stock cabinets come in standard sizes and configurations that can be combined in different ways. With some clever design, stock cabinets can work in most kitchen layouts.
The major home improvement retailers offer a wide selection of in-stock cabinets at various price points. Opt for stock cabinets with adjustable shelves and high-quality door fronts to get the most style for your dollar. Combine different cabinet lines, finishes, and hardware to create a custom look.
Buy Discounted Cabinets
Many cabinet suppliers offer significant discounts on overstock cabinets, floor models, cancelled orders, and imperfect units with minor cosmetic flaws. These discontinued or slightly damaged cabinets are functionally equivalent to new cabinets. With the savings, you can fix up small defects or replace damaged doors and drawers.
Check inventory clearance sales both online and at physical warehouse stores. Be prepared to act quickly on discounted stock, as the best deals sell out fast. Some retailers also offer coupons, rebates, and seasonal sales around holidays to help sell old cabinet inventory.
Choose Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets
Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets come unfinished and require some assembly. Because they ship flat-packed, they cost much less to stock and transport. The savings are passed down to the consumer, making RTA cabinets 30-50% cheaper than comparable pre-assembled cabinets.
With basic tools and DIY skills, RTA cabinets can be assembled over a weekend. The unfinished wood also allows for customization through stains, paints, and glazes. Look for solid wood frames and plywood construction when choosing RTA cabinets for durability. Factor in the additional cost of finishing to achieve the desired look.
Stain Rather Than Paint
Stained cabinets accentuate the natural wood grain while painted cabinets conceal it. Staining is also a less labor-intensive process. It involves fewer steps than painting while allowing the wood’s natural patterns and textures to show through.
Opting for stain over paint can reduce finishing costs by 30% or more. Using a gel stain makes the process easier for DIYers. Combine stained cabinets with other finishes like painted islands or distressed accents to add visual interest. Consider stain-grade RTA cabinets to take advantage of the beautiful wood while keeping costs low.
Use Readymade Cabinet Boxes
One of the costliest aspects of cabinets is the laminated plywood box construction. Opting for readymade boxes with pre-installed interiors can reduce cabinet costs substantially. Then you can focus your budget on choosing high-end doors and drawers to customize the look.
Semi-custom cabinet companies like Barker Cabinets offer unfinished cabinet boxes with shelves, hinges, and drawer guides pre-installed. Once the boxes are in place, you can have doors and drawers made to order. Mixing stock boxes with made-to-order fronts creates custom style at commodity pricing.
Shop Online Outlets
Online cabinet distributors can offer significant savings compared to showroom prices due to lower overhead costs. Retailers like QualityCabinetsToGo.com and Cabinets.com feature hundreds of discounted in-stock cabinets available for convenient home delivery.
Browse their websites for specials, closeouts, and overstocks that offer deep discounts.Use their online design tools to create 3D kitchen renderings using their cabinet inventory. Factor in shipping costs and be prepared to handle installation yourself. Within those parameters, online outlets are a great budget option.
Consider Alternative Door Materials
Wood doors are the gold standard for cabinetry but come at a premium cost. Alternative materials like laminate, thermofoil, and acrylic can mimic the look of real wood for a fraction of the price. They are highly durable and come in a vast range of finishes.
Laminate doors with wood edges offer realistic wood grains. Thermofoil doors provide vibrant, uniform colors. Acrylic doors have a glassy transparency perfect for open shelving. Mixing door materials is a great way to save, so splurge on wood where it will stand out and use alternatives elsewhere.
Install Them Yourself
For the most budget-friendly option, purchase ready-to-install cabinets and handle the installation on your own. Pre-assembled stock cabinets are designed for DIY installation. With proper measurements, leveling, and reinforcement, you can install cabinets professionally without the labor costs.
Watch online tutorials to learn best practices for hanging wall cabinets and base cabinets. Recruit an experienced friend to assist. Be sure to account for the extra time and work involved. While DIY installation demands more effort, it can reduce total costs by 20% or more.
Conclusion
With careful planning and resourceful choices, you can design an elegant, functional kitchen without maxing out your budget. Take advantage of minor damage discounts, online outlets, alternative materials, and DIY labor to substantially reduce cabinet costs. Invest strategically in the details that have the biggest impact.
Focus your resources on statement-making accents like decorative legs or moulding. Splurge on soft-closing hardware and quality hinges for everyday luxury. Get creative with mixing cabinet colors, styles, and finishes throughout the space. With smart techniques and strategic compromises, it’s possible to build your dream kitchen on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most affordable options for kitchen cabinets?
The most budget-friendly cabinet options include stock cabinets, RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets, discounted or damaged cabinets, online outlets, alternative door materials like laminate or thermofoil, and installing cabinets yourself.
How much can I realistically save on kitchen cabinets?
Savings will vary, but choosing more affordable cabinet options can reduce total costs by 20-50% typically. Maximum savings come from combining several budget-friendly options.
What are the downsides to buying cheaper cabinets?
Cheaper cabinets may require more compromise on selection, quality and customization. Materials like laminate won’t be as durable as solid wood. Discounted cabinets may have small defects. DIY installation is more labor-intensive.
Should I wait for seasonal sales and holidays?
Yes, many cabinet suppliers offer their best discounts and promotions around major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Memorial Day sales etc. to attract more buyers.
What are stock cabinets?
Stock cabinets are pre-assembled cabinets built in standardized sizes and configurations. They offer limited customization but cost much less than fully customized cabinetry.
What do I need to install kitchen cabinets myself?
DIY cabinet installation requires basic tools like a drill, saw, level, framing square and clamps. Watch online tutorials. Focus on accurate measurement, plumb wall preparation and reinforcement. Recruit experienced help if needed.
How do I choose good quality affordable cabinets?
Look for solid wood frames, plywood construction, strong joinery and durable finishes like melamine, thermofoil or polyurethane. Test doors, drawers and hardware in person when possible.
What are the best places to buy discounted cabinets?
Check big box stores, warehouse outlets, online retailers and local suppliers for sales, overstock and discontinued cabinets. Sign up for promo emails and check clearance sections regularly.
Conclusion
Getting beautiful, high-quality kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to drain your renovation budget. With clever design decisions and savvy shopping strategies, it’s possible to significantly reduce the cost of your new dream kitchen. Take advantage of the many budget-friendly cabinet options now available. Invest wisely in the details that have the most visual impact. With careful planning and resourcefulness, you can install stunning, functional cabinets at a price you can afford.
