How to Find Cheap or Free Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen renovations can be expensive, especially for cabinets. They can cost from $2,000 to $24,000, taking a big part of your budget1. But don’t worry, I have tips to help you find affordable kitchen cabinets without losing quality.
Looking to save more? Used cabinets for a 10×10 kitchen are priced between $800 and $1,3502. This can save you thousands and give your kitchen a new look. I’ve found cheap or free cabinets on online marketplaces, social media, salvage yards, and showroom displays.
Refacing is a great DIY option to update your kitchen without spending a lot. Refacing your cabinets yourself can save money and add a personal touch.
If you’re up for it, installing your own cabinets can cut costs even more. This approach saves money and lets you control the outcome. With creativity and effort, you can have a beautiful kitchen without spending a lot.
Key Takeaways
- New kitchen cabinets can cost between $2,000 to $24,000
- Used cabinets offer significant savings, ranging from $800 to $1,350 for a 10×10 kitchen
- Online marketplaces and social media are great resources for finding deals
- Salvage yards and showroom displays can yield hidden gems
- DIY installation and refacing can dramatically reduce overall costs
- Creativity and patience are key in finding budget-friendly cabinet solutions
Understanding the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets
Planning a kitchen remodel often means looking at cabinet costs closely. It’s key to understand these costs for comparing prices and saving money.
Average Prices for New Cabinets
New kitchen cabinets can really affect your budget. Costs can range from $4,000 to $13,000 for most projects3. Stock cabinets are the cheapest, costing $100 to $300 per linear foot installed4. Semi-custom cabinets are a bit pricier, at $150 to $650 per linear foot. Custom cabinets can go up to $500 to $1,200 per linear foot43.
Potential Savings with Used or Cheap Cabinets
Choosing used or cheaper cabinets can save a lot of money. Refacing your cabinets costs about $7,245 on average, while refinishing costs around $3,009. These options are great for saving money on your kitchen remodel.
Factors Affecting Cabinet Costs
Several things can change how much cabinets cost:
- Materials: Prices start at $70 per linear foot for plywood and go up to $700 for acrylic or stainless steel4.
- Customization: Stock cabinets are about $5,441, but custom ones can be over $30,0004.
- Labor: Installing cabinets can add one to three times the cost, with prices from $70 to $200 per hour4.
- Market conditions: Supply chain issues have caused price hikes in the last two years5.
Upgrading your kitchen, including new cabinets, can increase your home’s value. You might get back 42% to 86% of what you spent on the renovation4. Plan your budget well, considering these factors for the best deals and savings.
Exploring Online Marketplaces for Deals
Online cabinet shopping is a great way for homeowners on a budget to find deals. Craigslist and eBay are great places to look for affordable kitchen upgrades.
Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are top spots for finding used cabinets at low prices6. These sites often have local listings, which helps avoid high shipping costs. I suggest setting up email alerts for specific keywords to keep up with new listings.
For those wanting new cabinets but don’t want to spend a lot, RTA cabinets are a good choice. The RTA Store offers quality cabinets with sales and discounts7. These cabinets are popular among smart shoppers because they’re affordable but still high-quality6.
When shopping online for cabinets, think about the type, style, and where they’re from. Cabinets from America, China, and Germany vary in price and delivery time8. Delivery times can be 1-2 weeks or 6-8 weeks, depending on the source and shipping method8.
Before buying, check if you can handle the installation yourself. Some sellers offer free design services, which can be very helpful for a big project78. Make sure to look into warranties, reviews, and return policies for a smooth purchase.
By using these online marketplaces and looking at different cabinet options, I’ve found it’s possible to get a beautiful kitchen makeover without spending a lot. Happy hunting!
Leveraging Social Media for Cabinet Bargains
Social media has become a key place to find great deals on kitchen cabinets. Over 70% of people use social media every day, making it a goldmine for bargain hunters9.
Facebook Marketplace Opportunities
Facebook Marketplace is a top spot for finding deals on kitchen cabinets. With 2.9 billion users each month, it’s the best place to look for used and discounted cabinets9. I’ve seen many listings for gently used cabinets at much lower prices. To find the best deals, join local buy/sell groups and set up alerts for “kitchen cabinets” or “cabinetry”.
Buy Nothing Project Groups
Buy Nothing Project groups on Facebook are great for getting free kitchen cabinets. These groups focus on sharing and gifting within the community. I’ve seen many people get full cabinet sets for free just by asking. It’s a win-win situation: people declutter and bargain hunters get what they need without paying.
Tips for Successful Social Media Searches
Searching for bargains on social media needs a good strategy. Here are some tips that work well:
- Be persistent and check listings daily
- Respond quickly to sellers
- Be ready to pick up items fast
- Use hashtags like #kitchencabinets or #cabinetsforsale
- Engage with posts to get noticed
About 80% of people start looking for products online, including kitchen cabinets9. By using social media smartly, you can find amazing deals that update your kitchen without spending a lot.
| Platform | User Base | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2.9 billion monthly users | Wide range of cabinet deals | |
| 12% of home renovators | Visual inspiration and local sellers | |
| 444 million users (76% women) | DIY ideas and upcycling projects |
Social media gives you many chances to find cabinet bargains. Facebook is a leader with its huge user base. Instagram and Pinterest focus on specific groups and interests9. Using these platforms well can help you save a lot on your kitchen renovation.
Salvage Yards and ReStores: Hidden Gems for Cabinet Hunters
I’ve found that salvage yards and ReStores are great for homeowners on a budget. They offer quality kitchen cabinets at good prices. These places let you add history to your home without spending a lot.
Navigating Architectural Salvage Yards
Architectural salvage yards are perfect for finding upcycled kitchen cabinets. They have cabinets from high-end homes, which can save you up to 50% compared to new ones10. Solid wood cabinets from these yards last longer than particleboard or MDF, making them a wise choice10.
In New York City, places like BigReuse in Gowanus and Demolition Depot in Harlem have a lot of architectural salvage. You can find kitchen cabinets at a big discount, up to 90% off11. Even a 10-year-old kitchen can be worth up to $10,000 in this market11.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Benefits
ReStore cabinets are a great choice for budget-friendly kitchen updates. Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores sell gently used cabinets at lower prices, helping you save money and support a good cause10. They have a wide range of cabinets, from basic to high-end custom pieces.
What to Look for in Salvaged Cabinets
When looking for salvaged cabinets, focus on quality and fit. This ensures your kitchen will last a long time10. Look for cabinets that are well-made, have little damage, and can be refinished. Make sure to measure your space well and be ready to negotiate prices.
Using salvaged wood can add unique features to your kitchen. For example, old wood joists can become beautiful kitchen pieces. This not only saves money but also helps the environment11. It makes your kitchen stand out and is good for the planet.
Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Cabinets: A Budget-Friendly Option
RTA cabinets are a great choice for those on a budget who want to update their kitchens. They come flat-packed and need to be put together at home. This is different from semi-custom or custom cabinets12.
RTA cabinets are often cheaper because they have fewer finish options, door styles, and sizes. They don’t offer as many custom choices as more expensive options12. IKEA kitchen cabinets are a well-known RTA choice, loved for being affordable and stylish.
When looking at RTA cabinets, check for quality features like full-height back panels, dovetail drawer construction, and soft-close hardware. These ensure they last a long time, even if they’re budget-friendly12. Self-assembly cabinets from trusted brands usually come with warranties, giving you confidence in your purchase.
Putting together RTA cabinets might seem hard, but many have easy-to-use systems. Some brands have interlocking boxes that make it simpler. With some effort and basic tools, you can get a professional look without spending a lot.
| Cabinet Type | Assembly | Customization | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTA | DIY | Limited | Low |
| Semi-Custom | Pre-assembled | Moderate | Medium |
| Custom | Pre-assembled | Extensive | High |
Choosing RTA cabinets means saving money and starting a fun DIY project. It can change your kitchen and keep your budget in check.
Scoring Display Cabinets from Showrooms
Showroom cabinet displays let you get high-quality kitchen cabinets at big discounts. These deals can help homeowners upgrade their kitchens without spending a lot. It’s a smart way to save money.
How to Approach Showrooms for Deals
Looking for floor model cabinets? Talk to showroom managers directly. They might tell you about upcoming changes or let you buy their display pieces at a lower price. Companies like Renovation Angel13 often sell these at half the retail price.
Benefits of Display Cabinets
Buying showroom cabinet displays can be a smart move. You might get extra accessories like sinks, faucets, and lighting. This makes them a budget-friendly choice13. You could even find well-known brands like Kraftmaid or Wellborn at lower prices13.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Discounted kitchen displays are great, but remember a few things. They might be outdated and have small flaws. Always check the cabinets for damage before buying.
| Cabinet Type | Price Range (10×10 Kitchen) | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|
| New Stock Cabinets | $1,250 – $3,250 | Standard features |
| Custom Cabinets | $6,000 – $12,000 | Customizable options |
| Used Cabinets | $800 – $1,350 | Varies |
| Display Cabinets | 50% off retail or less | Often includes extras |
Considering showroom cabinet displays can save you a lot on your kitchen remodel. Just think about the style and function you want. For more tips on saving money on kitchen cabinets, look into RTA cabinets or online wholesalers.
Creative Solutions: Repurposing and Upcycling Cabinets
Cabinet upcycling is becoming very popular. A huge 89% of homes have vintage or antique furniture, and 72% choose to repurpose as a green choice14. I’ve seen that repurposed kitchen cabinets can be turned into many new things through DIY projects.
One great idea is to turn old TV cabinets into storage units. Many folks find armoires on Facebook Marketplace for about $100, making for a budget-friendly redo15. By painting these cabinets, you can give them a fresh look. Adding shelves also makes them more useful.
For coffee lovers, turning an entertainment center into a coffee stand is a clever idea. It’s not a common project, but it adds a unique touch to your space. Some DIY fans even add lights to their repurposed TV cabinets for more style.
Let’s look at some stats on repurposing:
| Activity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Households reusing or upcycling old furniture | 67% |
| People engaging in DIY furniture projects | 53% |
| Individuals sourcing materials from family or friends | 73% |
These figures show how cabinet upcycling is getting more popular and easy14. I’ve seen many creative uses for old cabinets, like wardrobes or laundry room storage. In fact, 61% of people use old cabinets for their laundry rooms14.
When starting your DIY cabinet makeover, think about the planet. A big 82% of people consider the environment in their projects14. By repurposing, you’re saving money and helping the earth.
Evaluating Used Cabinets: What to Look For and Avoid
When searching for used cabinets, it’s key to know what to check and what to skip. A kitchen redo can range from $27,000 to $60,500, with cabinets taking up about 30% of that16. So, finding good used cabinets can help save a lot of money.
Signs of Quality in Used Cabinets
When checking used cabinets, I look for strong build and little wear. Cabinets from hardwood like oak and cherry last longer than those from presswood or laminate16. I want drawers with solid-wood sides, dovetail joints, and a plywood bottom17. Full-extension drawer guides are a big plus17.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
I steer clear of cabinets with peeling veneer, crooked or broken boxes, or heavily stained MDF. It’s crucial to check for missing parts like shelves or hardware. When looking at used cabinets, I watch for scratches, dings, or misalignments to dodge problems during setup16. I also ensure the cabinets have enough storage and fit my needs before buying16.
Assessing Potential for Refurbishment
When checking used cabinets for redoing, I think about paint-ability and how solid they are. I notice the wood color and grain, as it impacts painting or staining16. For wall cabinets, I like 3/4-inch hardwood or metal strips for mounting over thinner options17. Often, you can find top-notch cabinets for less than their original price, but they might not come with a warranty18.
FAQ
What are the average prices for new kitchen cabinets?
New kitchen cabinets can cost between ,000 to ,000. For a 10×10 kitchen, stock cabinets are
FAQ
What are the average prices for new kitchen cabinets?
New kitchen cabinets can cost between $2,000 to $24,000. For a 10×10 kitchen, stock cabinets are $1,250 to $3,250. Custom cabinets can be $6,000 to $12,000.
How much can I save by buying used cabinets?
Used cabinets for a 10×10 kitchen can cost between $800 and $1,350. This can offer big savings compared to new cabinets.
What are some options for finding cheap or free cabinets?
You can find affordable cabinets on online marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay. Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing Project groups are also good spots. Don’t forget to check salvage yards, ReStores, showroom displays, and ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets.
How can I successfully find cabinet deals on social media?
To find cabinet bargains on social media, join local groups and set up notifications for relevant keywords. Act fast on listings and be ready to pick up items quickly.
What should I look for when shopping at salvage yards or ReStores?
At salvage yards or ReStores, look for cabinets with solid construction and minimal damage. They might need some refurbishment. Always negotiate prices and look for unique or high-quality options.
What are the benefits of RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets?
RTA cabinets offer big savings through self-assembly. They come from places like IKEA or warehouse clubs. They have easy assembly with cam lock and bracket systems.
How can I score deals on display cabinets from showrooms?
Talk to showroom managers about display cabinets they’re about to change. These cabinets often have extras and special features at lower prices. They might show some wear or be a bit outdated in style.
How can I repurpose or upcycle used cabinets?
You can refresh used cabinets by painting them. Replace old hardware or use them in other areas like garages or laundry rooms. They can also be the base for kitchen islands.
What should I look for and avoid when evaluating used cabinets?
Look for cabinets with solid construction and minimal wear. Check if they can be refurbished. Avoid those with peeling veneer, bowed or broken boxes, stained MDF, or missing parts. Make sure they’re sturdy and can be painted.
,250 to ,250. Custom cabinets can be ,000 to ,000.
How much can I save by buying used cabinets?
Used cabinets for a 10×10 kitchen can cost between 0 and
FAQ
What are the average prices for new kitchen cabinets?
New kitchen cabinets can cost between $2,000 to $24,000. For a 10×10 kitchen, stock cabinets are $1,250 to $3,250. Custom cabinets can be $6,000 to $12,000.
How much can I save by buying used cabinets?
Used cabinets for a 10×10 kitchen can cost between $800 and $1,350. This can offer big savings compared to new cabinets.
What are some options for finding cheap or free cabinets?
You can find affordable cabinets on online marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay. Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing Project groups are also good spots. Don’t forget to check salvage yards, ReStores, showroom displays, and ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets.
How can I successfully find cabinet deals on social media?
To find cabinet bargains on social media, join local groups and set up notifications for relevant keywords. Act fast on listings and be ready to pick up items quickly.
What should I look for when shopping at salvage yards or ReStores?
At salvage yards or ReStores, look for cabinets with solid construction and minimal damage. They might need some refurbishment. Always negotiate prices and look for unique or high-quality options.
What are the benefits of RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets?
RTA cabinets offer big savings through self-assembly. They come from places like IKEA or warehouse clubs. They have easy assembly with cam lock and bracket systems.
How can I score deals on display cabinets from showrooms?
Talk to showroom managers about display cabinets they’re about to change. These cabinets often have extras and special features at lower prices. They might show some wear or be a bit outdated in style.
How can I repurpose or upcycle used cabinets?
You can refresh used cabinets by painting them. Replace old hardware or use them in other areas like garages or laundry rooms. They can also be the base for kitchen islands.
What should I look for and avoid when evaluating used cabinets?
Look for cabinets with solid construction and minimal wear. Check if they can be refurbished. Avoid those with peeling veneer, bowed or broken boxes, stained MDF, or missing parts. Make sure they’re sturdy and can be painted.
,350. This can offer big savings compared to new cabinets.
What are some options for finding cheap or free cabinets?
You can find affordable cabinets on online marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay. Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing Project groups are also good spots. Don’t forget to check salvage yards, ReStores, showroom displays, and ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets.
How can I successfully find cabinet deals on social media?
To find cabinet bargains on social media, join local groups and set up notifications for relevant keywords. Act fast on listings and be ready to pick up items quickly.
What should I look for when shopping at salvage yards or ReStores?
At salvage yards or ReStores, look for cabinets with solid construction and minimal damage. They might need some refurbishment. Always negotiate prices and look for unique or high-quality options.
What are the benefits of RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets?
RTA cabinets offer big savings through self-assembly. They come from places like IKEA or warehouse clubs. They have easy assembly with cam lock and bracket systems.
How can I score deals on display cabinets from showrooms?
Talk to showroom managers about display cabinets they’re about to change. These cabinets often have extras and special features at lower prices. They might show some wear or be a bit outdated in style.
How can I repurpose or upcycle used cabinets?
You can refresh used cabinets by painting them. Replace old hardware or use them in other areas like garages or laundry rooms. They can also be the base for kitchen islands.
What should I look for and avoid when evaluating used cabinets?
Look for cabinets with solid construction and minimal wear. Check if they can be refurbished. Avoid those with peeling veneer, bowed or broken boxes, stained MDF, or missing parts. Make sure they’re sturdy and can be painted.
Source Links
- https://www.thespruce.com/secrets-to-finding-cheap-kitchen-cabinets-1822039 – How to Find Cheap or Free Kitchen Cabinets
- https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/cheap-kitchen-cabinets-259619 – Here’s How to Find Cheap Kitchen Cabinets That Won’t Compromise Your Style
- https://www.bobvila.com/articles/cost-of-kitchen-cabinets/ – What Is the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets?
- https://www.bankrate.com/homeownership/how-much-do-kitchen-cabinets-cost/ – How Much Do New Cabinets Cost? | Bankrate
- https://www.bhg.com/kitchen/cabinets/styles/kitchen-cabinet-costs/ – Here’s Your Guide to Kitchen Cabinet Costs in 2023
- https://www.rtacabinetstore.com/blog/3-places-dirt-cheap-kitchen-cabinets/ – 3 Places to Get Dirt Cheap Kitchen Cabinets – RTA Cabinet Blog
- https://blog.thertastore.com/top-sites-for-stunning-kitchen-cabinets-online/ – Top Sites for Stunning Kitchen Cabinets Online – The RTA Store
- https://www.kitchen-design-nyc.com/post/kitchen-cabinets-online – Buying Kitchen Cabinets Online – Helpful Tips [Guide]
- https://blog.marfacabinets.com/how-kitchen-cabinetry-businesses-can-tame-smm-to-skyrocket-sales – How Can you Leverage Social Media to Improve Your Cabinetry Sales?
- https://www.huntskitchendesigns.com/used-kitchen-cabinets/ – Used Kitchen Cabinets – How, Where to Buy, & What to Know
- https://www.brickunderground.com/improve/using-reclaimed-materials-architectural-salvage-NYC-renovation – Want to use reclaimed materials and appliances for a renovation? Here’s what you should know
- https://www.cliqstudios.com/rta-kitchen-cabinets.html – Buy RTA Kitchen Cabinets Online at the Best Price | Cliqstudios
- https://www.thespruce.com/buying-used-kitchen-cabinets-can-save-money-1822028 – How to Buy Used Kitchen Cabinets and Save Money
- https://www.reinventeddelaware.com/china-cabinet-makeover/ – The Best Way to Upcycle a China Cabinet – Furniture Makeover
- https://mylifeonkayderosscreek.com/how-to-create-easy-extra-storage-with-repurposed-old-tv-cabinets/ – How to Create Easy Extra Storage with Repurposed Old TV Cabinets – Life on Kaydeross Creek
- https://www.housedigest.com/1587056/what-know-before-buying-used-cabinets-kitchen/ – What To Know Before Buying Used Cabinets For Your Kitchen – House Digest
- https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/kitchen-cabinets/buying-guide/ – Best Kitchen Cabinet Buying Guide – Consumer Reports
- https://www.shelfgenie.com/blog/tips-tricks/used-kitchen-cabinets/ – How to Buy Used Kitchen Cabinets
