Kitchen Remodel & Repair

How to Buy Used Kitchen Cabinets and Save Money

14 Min Read

I’m excited to share my insights on how to save big on your kitchen remodel by opting for secondhand cabinets. Kitchen renovations can be costly, but with smart choices, you can create a stunning space without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into the world of used kitchen cabinets and explore how they can transform your renovation project.

Kitchen remodels often have a big budget item: cabinets. By choosing used cabinets, you can cut costs and still get a beautiful look. For a 10×10 kitchen, new stock cabinets cost between $1,250 to $3,250. Custom ones can be $6,000 to $12,000¹. But used cabinets for the same space can be found for $800 to $1,350, saving you a lot¹.

Secondhand cabinets are more than just affordable. They come from top brands like Kraftmaid, Merillat, and Wellborn, often at half price¹. This means you get quality at a good price. Plus, choosing used cabinets is eco-friendly, giving old pieces a new life.

Shopping for used cabinets offers many options. Architectural salvage yards have them at lower prices, sometimes with extras like sinks or faucets¹². Habitat ReStores sell gently used cabinets for about half retail¹. For online shoppers, Renovation Angel offers big discounts on display and used cabinets¹.

When looking at used cabinets, check their condition. Display cabinets from showrooms are usually in good shape¹. But used working cabinets might need more cleaning and prep². Choose cabinets made of quality woods like oak, maple, birch, or cherry for better quality and durability².

Choosing used cabinets helps you save money. You can use that saved cash for other parts of your kitchen renovation. This way, you can get that dream countertop or high-end appliance you want. It’s all about smart budgeting and making your renovation dollars go further.

Key Takeaways

• Used kitchen cabinets can save you 50% or more compared to new ones
• High-quality brands are often available at significant discounts
• Various sources like salvage yards and online platforms offer used cabinets
• Look for cabinets made of durable hardwoods for best value
• Savings on cabinets allow for splurging on other kitchen elements
• Consider the condition and necessary prep work when choosing used cabinets

Understanding the Cost Savings of Used Kitchen Cabinets

When planning a kitchen remodel, comparing new and used cabinets can be surprising. Buying used kitchen cabinets can cut costs by up to 50% compared to new ones³. This big saving lets you stretch your budget further and explore more kitchen upgrade options.

Comparing New vs. Used Cabinet Prices

The price gap between new and used cabinets is huge. Used cabinets are priced from $200 to $800, while new ones range from $2,000 to $10,000, based on materials and design³. This big difference means you could save a lot on your kitchen redo.

Potential for Significant Savings

Choosing used cabinets can lead to big savings. You might find solid wood cabinets at a much lower price than new. Solid wood cabinets last longer than particleboard or MDF ones, offering both durability and value³. Some stores offer discounts at certain times, and buying cabinets in bulk or as part of a package can save even more⁴.

Additional Budget for Other Kitchen Upgrades

The money saved on cabinets can go towards other kitchen upgrades. You might upgrade appliances, install new lighting, or choose high-end countertops. If you’re handy, doing the installation yourself can save a lot of money, stretching your budget further⁴. If you prefer a professional touch, the savings from used cabinets can cover the cost of expert installation, ensuring everything looks perfect.

By picking used cabinets, you’re not just saving money. You’re opening up a world of creative possibilities for your kitchen remodel. The savings let you mix cabinet colors and styles, creating a unique look or blending modern with rustic for a personal touch⁵. With careful planning and smart shopping, your kitchen upgrade can be both budget-friendly and beautiful.

Where to Find Used Kitchen Cabinets

I’ve found great places to look for used kitchen cabinets. Architectural salvage yards are perfect for those on a budget. They have unique, high-quality cabinets at much lower prices⁶.

Online marketplaces have changed how we buy used items. Sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay have many used kitchen cabinets. Prices range from $60 for a set to $35,999 for a luxury NYC kitchen⁶.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore is another great choice. These stores sell new and used furniture, appliances, and building materials. Buying here saves money and helps a good cause. ReStore offers materials and advice for remodeling your kitchen⁷.

Local sources often have better deals because shipping costs are lower. Community groups like Buy Nothing can be great for finding free or almost free cabinets. Some groups get up to three kitchens a week, offering cabinets at 10% to 30% of retail price⁸.

If you want high-end options, try kitchen showrooms or services like Renovation Angel. They offer luxury cabinets starting at $2,399, which is a big savings⁶.

Being patient and persistent in your search is key. With some effort, you can find great cabinets that match your budget and style. Plus, you’ll help reduce waste in your community.

Assessing the Quality of Used Cabinets

When looking for used kitchen cabinets, it’s important to check their quality. I’ll show you how to inspect them to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

Examining Structural Integrity

First, check if the cabinets are well-built. Look for dovetail joints and strong frames. These signs mean the cabinets will last a long time⁹. Doors that are 13/16 inches thick are usually good quality, as thinner ones might warp or crack¹⁰.

Checking for Water Damage

Water damage can really hurt a cabinet’s quality. Look for any signs of discoloration, swelling, or mold, especially near moisture spots. Check the bottoms of base cabinets and areas near sinks or dishwashers closely.

Evaluating Wood Quality and Construction

The type of wood used affects how long a cabinet lasts. Common woods for kitchen cabinets include oak, maple, cherry, and birch. Each has its own look and durability⁹. Custom cabinets usually last longer than stock ones¹⁰.

Buying quality used cabinets can save you money in the long run. They mean less frequent replacements and repairs⁹. By carefully inspecting and assessing their quality, you can make a smart choice. This balance of cost savings with durability and style is key.

Inspecting Functionality and Hardware

When I look at used kitchen cabinets, I check the drawers and door alignment first. These are key for a kitchen that works well. I make sure drawers open and close easily. Doors should line up right and open smoothly.

Then, I look at the cabinet hardware. Good hardware makes a big difference in how the cabinets look and work. I see if the old holes match new hardware to save time later. Sometimes, you might need to replace drawer slides and hinges for everything to work right¹¹.

Interior designer Sarah Thompson advises, “Don’t skip the shelves and pullouts. They’re important for the cabinet’s usefulness. Make sure they’re in good shape and stable for your storage needs.”

Salvaged cabinets might need some work. You might need to sand, fill holes, and change hardware¹¹. This takes time, but it can save money. Used cabinets can be as cheap as $500, much less than new ones¹².

By checking the cabinets well, you can make a smart choice when buying used kitchen cabinets. This careful check ensures you get cabinets that will last a long time.

Considering Cabinet Style and Design

When I look for used kitchen cabinets, I pay close attention to their style and design. The design of cabinets is key to the look of a kitchen. Choosing the right style can change your kitchen for the better, but the wrong choice can mess up the whole look.

Matching Your Kitchen’s Aesthetic

I first check how the cabinets will fit with my kitchen’s style. I look at the door styles, finishes, and overall design. New cabinets can be expensive, costing between $2,000 and $24,000, which is a big part of kitchen remodel budgets¹³. Used cabinets are much cheaper, sometimes costing just a few hundred dollars or even nothing¹⁴.

Potential for Refinishing or Repainting

Many used cabinets can be updated. Refinishing them can make them look new again. I often sand and stain wooden cabinets for a natural look¹⁴. For painted cabinets, I sand and repaint to fix flaws and get a fresh look¹⁴. Good cabinet paint can be expensive but makes used cabinets look amazing¹³.

Importance of Door and Drawer Styles

Door and drawer styles are important for the look of a kitchen. I think about how they match other parts of my kitchen. Sometimes, I mix pre-made frames with recycled door fronts for a custom look¹⁴. This way, I can get a designer look without spending a lot of time or money.

By thinking about style, design, and refinishing options, I can find used cabinets that improve my kitchen’s look and save money. This way, I help my budget and the environment by keeping cabinets out of landfills¹⁴.

Measuring and Fitting Used Cabinets in Your Kitchen

Getting the kitchen layout right is key when adding used cabinets. I start by measuring my kitchen carefully. I note the wall lengths, where windows and doors are, and where appliances sit. This helps me plan my space well.

Then, I measure the used cabinets. I check their depth, height, and width. It’s vital they fit your kitchen’s look and needs. Used cabinets can save you a lot of money, costing from $2,000 to $32,000+¹⁵.

When putting in used cabinets, I often adjust them. This might mean cutting cabinet sides, changing shelves, or mixing parts from different sets. It’s a fun way to get a unique look without spending a lot. You can save 50-70% off the price of an ex-display kitchen, which is a big saving¹⁵.

To make installation go smoothly, I plan everything out. I mark where cabinets will go on the floor and walls. I also plan for any changes needed. Remember, a typical kitchen is 100 to 200 square feet, so planning well is key to using space well¹⁶.

By measuring and planning well, used cabinets can give your kitchen a luxury feel at a lower cost. They often come with high-end appliances and stone countertops¹⁵. With good planning and measuring, you can make a beautiful, useful kitchen without spending too much.

Cleaning and Preparing Used Cabinets for Installation

Getting used cabinets ready for installation needs careful steps. I’ll show you how to clean, sanitize, and fix minor issues. These steps make sure your secondhand cabinets are perfect for their new spot.

Sanitizing and Deodorizing

First, sanitize the cabinets well. I clean all surfaces with warm water and mild dish soap. For tough dirt, vinegar and water do the trick. Then, I disinfect with diluted bleach to kill bacteria or mold.

Deodorizing is key for used cabinets. Leaving an open box of baking soda inside for 24-48 hours absorbs smells. If smells linger, a light sanding of the inside can help.

Repairing Minor Damages

Fixing minor damages boosts the look and use of used cabinets. I check and tighten loose hinges, replacing any broken ones. Small scratches get filled with wood putty and sanded down. For deeper marks, I use wood filler and sand it even with the surface.

Updating Hardware if Necessary

Changing hardware can refresh used cabinets. I swap out old knobs and pulls for new ones that match the kitchen’s style. This easy change can totally change the cabinets’ look. When picking new hardware, I make sure it fits the existing holes to avoid extra drilling¹⁷.

With the right cleaning, sanitizing, and fixing, used cabinets can look almost new. These steps not only make them look better but also make them clean and useful for your kitchen remodel. The whole process takes about 8 to 10 hours for a standard kitchen, but it’s totally worth it¹⁷¹⁸.

Creative Ways to Incorporate Used Cabinets in Your Kitchen Design

I’ve found some cool kitchen design ideas that mix creativity with saving money. By using old cabinets, you can get a custom look without spending a lot. Let’s look at some new ways to use old cabinets that will change your kitchen.

Start by painting your old cabinets for a new look. High-quality paints from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams work great. Choosing the right wood type for your cabinets is key for good paint and lasting results. Also, picking the right hardware is easy to make your kitchen stand out. You can find affordable options on Amazon, Lowe’s, and Etsy¹⁹.

For a unique look, mix old cabinets with new custom parts. Companies like Nieu Cabinet Doors offer custom doors and drawer fronts. Adding molding to doors and drawer fronts is a simple way to improve your cabinets. You can also customize cabinet ends with beadboard or make an ‘X’ shape with trim on your island for more style¹⁹.

Think outside the box for using cabinets. Use them as a command center, a reading nook, or even a mattress platform in your bedroom. Being creative helps you save money on furniture and storage. Old cabinets can hide appliances, create work areas, and store entertainment in different rooms²⁰. Finally, don’t be afraid to add vintage pieces to your kitchen. A vintage hutch or antique cabinet can be a charming alternative to regular cabinets, adding character and warmth¹⁹.

Source Links

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