Where to Buy the Best Kitchen Cabinets

10 Min Read

I’m excited to help you find the perfect kitchen cabinets for your home. Cabinets are key in kitchen design, affecting both looks and function. They can change a room’s look and offer vital storage. When updating your kitchen, think about your budget, time, design likes, and needs.

Mid-level to custom kitchen cabinets for a standard kitchen cost $50,000 to $80,000¹. This price can boost your home’s value and improve your daily life. You have many options, from big stores to custom shops, so finding the right cabinets is important.

The average cost to install cabinets is $5,792, with most projects costing between $2,014 and $10,173². This shows the need for careful planning and budgeting in your kitchen update.

This article will look at different places to buy kitchen cabinets. We’ll cover everything from IKEA’s affordable systems to premium hand-painted cabinets from Plain English¹. We’ll look at various styles and prices to fit your needs and tastes.

Let’s explore kitchen cabinetry and find the best options for your kitchen renovation project.

Key Takeaways

Kitchen cabinets typically represent about 29% of the total remodeling budget²
Consider factors like budget, time constraints, and design preferences
Explore options from big-box retailers to custom workshops
IKEA offers affordable modular systems with easy installation¹
Custom cabinetry costs can range from $4,000 to $24,000²
Some retailers offer free design services and consultations
Consider the quality, materials, and finishes when selecting cabinets

Understanding Kitchen Cabinet Basics

When planning a kitchen renovation, cabinets are key. They can take up to 40% of your budget. So, it’s vital to know the basics before buying³.

Types of Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets vary in type, each with its own level of customization and price:

Stock cabinets: These are mass-produced and affordable, costing $35-$81 per linear foot⁴.
Semi-custom cabinets: These offer more flexibility and cost between $90-$650 per linear foot⁴.
Custom cabinets: Made to fit your exact needs, they range from $150-$1,200 per linear foot and take 8 weeks to 6 months to make⁴.

Materials and Finishes

The material of your cabinets affects their durability and look. You can choose from MDF, particleboard, plywood, solid wood, and thermofoil⁴. Plywood is top-rated for cabinets, followed by MDF and particle board⁵.

The finish of your cabinets changes how they look and how easy they are to keep clean. A “baked on finish” is durable, and low VOC finishes are better for health⁵.

Importance of Quality in Kitchen Cabinetry

Quality cabinets make your kitchen work better and last longer. Here’s what to look for:

Solid-wood frames with solid-wood or plywood panels in doors³
Drawer boxes made of 3/4″ maple with self-closing runners⁵
Full-extension drawer guides for easy access³
3/4-inch plywood shelves to stop sagging³
Thick mounting strips (3/4-inch hardwood or metal) for wall cabinets³

Choosing quality cabinets boosts your kitchen’s value and usefulness. The kitchen is a key part of your home, and good cabinets add a lot to its value⁵³⁴.

Factors to Consider When Buying Kitchen Cabinets

When I look for kitchen cabinets, I think about a few important things. The size of the cabinets is key for making the most of my kitchen space. I look for a design style that matches my home’s look, from modern to classic shaker styles.

There are many ways to install cabinets, from doing it myself to hiring professionals. Standard base cabinets are 34-1/2 inches tall without a countertop. Wall cabinets can be from 12 to 42 inches tall⁶. I also consider my budget, which includes the cabinets, any custom work, and installation costs.

How long the project takes is another big factor. Stock cabinets can be taken home the same day. But semi-custom or custom ones might take longer⁶. I plan for at least 2 hours for the first step of ordering cabinets and make a list of questions about the cabinets⁷.

The type of material is important for looks and durability. Popular choices for doors and fronts include maple, cherry, oak, and alder⁶. Experts suggest getting a touch-up kit for my cabinets⁷.

Cabinet Type	Customization Level	Typical Lead Time
Stock	Low	Immediate to few days
Semi-custom	Medium	3-8 weeks
Custom	High	8-12 weeks or more

Before I make my final choice, I check for sales or promotions. This can save me a lot of money – even up to a few thousand dollars⁷. By thinking about these things, I make sure my kitchen cabinets are both useful and fit my style.

Top Retailers for Kitchen Cabinets

Looking for kitchen cabinets? Many big stores have lots of options for different styles and budgets. Let’s check out some top picks for your kitchen redo.

IKEA: Affordable and Stylish Options

IKEA is famous for its budget-friendly and modern Scandinavian look. Their cabinets are easy to put together, perfect for those who like to DIY. You can pick from many finishes and sizes to match your kitchen.

The Home Depot: Variety and Convenience

The Home Depot has a huge selection of cabinets from various brands. You’ll find KraftMaid and American Woodmark cabinets there, fitting all budgets and tastes⁸. They have both standard and custom cabinets, so you’re sure to find what you want.

Lowe’s: Quality and Professional Services

Lowe’s cabinets are known for their great quality and value. They carry brands like KraftMaid for long-lasting kitchens⁸. Lowe’s also has expert installation and financing, making buying and setting up cabinets easy.

Fabuwood: Premium American-Made Cabinetry

Fabuwood cabinets are all about top-notch quality and American craftsmanship. They have styles from classic to modern, with fancy finishes and custom options. Fabuwood’s focus on precise design and hardwood materials makes them a top pick for those wanting both style and durability⁹.

Retailer	Key Features	Price Range
IKEA	Affordable, modular, DIY-friendly	$
Home Depot	Wide variety, multiple brands	$$-$$$
Lowe’s	Quality brands, professional installation	$$-$$$
Fabuwood	Premium, American-made, customizable	$$$-$$$$

New kitchen cabinets can cost between $4,000 and $13,000, depending on where you live and what you need⁹. Think about how long they last, their style, and how they’re installed when choosing. Many stores offer financing to help with costs, including 0% interest for kitchen updates¹⁰.

Custom and Semi-Custom Cabinet Sources

Looking for the perfect kitchen cabinets? Custom and semi-custom options give you a lot of flexibility. They let you create a bespoke kitchen that fits your needs exactly.

Custom cabinets are made just for you, fitting your space perfectly. They let you design anything you want, but they cost more and take longer to make. For example, Prime Cabinetry can furnish a 10×10 kitchen with custom cabinets for $3,000 to $5,000, taking about three to five weeks¹¹.

Semi-custom cabinets are a good middle ground between custom and standard. iCabinetry offers many choices. They have 20 door styles and 60 finishes, so you can find something that suits your taste¹².

When deciding between custom and semi-custom, think about your budget and how fast you need it. Custom cabinets give you the most control, but semi-custom can still offer a lot of options. For example, RTA Wood Cabinets can deliver in two weeks if you’re in a hurry¹¹.

Cabinet Type	Price Range (10×10 Kitchen)	Lead Time	Customization Level
Custom	$3,000 – $5,000+	3-5 weeks	Unlimited
Semi-Custom	$1,825 – $3,000	2-4 weeks	High

Many stores offer discounts for big orders. All Wood Cabinets gives a $299 credit on shipping for orders over $3,000. 27estore ships free on orders over $3,500¹¹. These deals can help make custom or semi-custom cabinets more affordable for your dream kitchen.

Online Marketplaces for Kitchen Cabinets

Online cabinet shopping has changed how we buy kitchen cabinets. E-commerce kitchen cabinets give us a huge selection and ease that old stores can’t offer. Let’s look at some top online places for your next kitchen update.

CabinetSelect.com: Extensive RTA Cabinet Selection

CabinetSelect.com is all about RTA cabinets. They have a huge variety of styles and finishes at great prices. RTA cabinets are affordable, easy to get, and come in many designs, colors, and materials¹³. They come in parts, making them simple to move and set up. Even though they’re budget-friendly, RTA cabinets are made to last with sustainable and strong materials¹³.

Other E-commerce Platforms

Many e-commerce sites have great kitchen cabinet options. The RTA Cabinet Store is famous for its top-quality cabinets with options to customize¹⁴. The Home Depot has a big selection of custom, ready-to-go, and unfinished cabinets¹⁴. Wayfair is known for its wide variety of cabinets and good prices¹⁴.

Lowe’s has stylish cabinets and free design help online¹⁴. Amazon is good for quick projects but be careful to pick high-quality cabinets¹⁴. When shopping online, think about shipping costs, return policies, and support.

Online stores have more kitchen cabinet choices than physical stores. You can find everything from classic white to modern black cabinets¹³. With e-commerce kitchen cabinets, making your dream kitchen is easier than ever.

Where to Buy the Best Kitchen Cabinets: Designer and Specialty Stores

For those looking for top-notch kitchen design, designer and specialty stores are the go-to places. They offer high-end kitchen cabinets that make any kitchen look amazing. These stores are perfect for homeowners who want unique and top-quality cabinets.

Stores like Oppein and Crystal Cabinet Works are known for their innovative designs and careful details¹⁵. They have a wide range of styles, from modern to classic. So, every homeowner can find the perfect cabinets for their kitchen.

When looking at specialty cabinetry, consider KraftMaid and Wellborn Cabinet. They focus on quality and use materials like maple, cherry, and hickory. This makes their cabinets strong and beautiful¹⁵.

For a truly unique kitchen, check out Omega Cabinetry and Decora. They offer custom wood options and special finishes. You can make your kitchen truly yours with their full customization¹⁶.

Designer and specialty stores might be pricier, but they offer unmatched quality and unique designs. Brands like DuraSupreme and Europa Cabinetry have semi-custom and full-custom options. They suit various styles, from traditional to modern¹⁶.

I suggest visiting showrooms or talking to design experts to see the quality and options in high-end kitchen cabinets. Remember, spending on quality cabinets improves your kitchen’s look and increases your home’s value.

Budgeting for Your Kitchen Cabinet Purchase

Are you planning your kitchen remodel budget? Let’s explore cabinet costs and financing options. Knowing the price ranges for different cabinets is key to making smart choices.

Price Ranges for Different Cabinet Types

Cabinet prices change a lot based on quality and how custom they are. Stock cabinets are the cheapest, costing between $230 and $290 per linear foot (LF). Semi-custom cabinets are next, priced from $320 to $400 per LF. Custom cabinets can start at $450 or more per LF¹⁷.

When planning for kitchen cabinet costs, remember that cabinets make up almost 40% of your kitchen remodel budget. A typical kitchen has about 30 cabinets. Each cabinet box can cost between $500 and $1500¹⁸.

Cabinet Type	Cost per Linear Foot	Example Budget (30 LF)
Stock	$290	$8,700
Semi-custom	$400	$12,000
Custom	$540	$16,200
Installation	$70	$2,100

Financing Options and Savings Strategies

Here are ways to manage cabinet costs:

Choose ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets for savings
Use open shelving with closed cabinets to cut costs
Look for sales at home improvement stores
Consider semi-custom for quality and price balance

Many stores offer financing for cabinets to spread the cost over time. High-quality cabinets are a good investment for lasting value, even if they cost more at first¹⁷. Don’t forget to include installation costs, which are about $70 per LF for any cabinet type¹⁷.

Installation Considerations and Services

Planning is crucial when installing kitchen cabinets. It can take up to 40 percent of your kitchen renovation budget¹⁹. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professionals, think about the options carefully.

DIY fans might like Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) cabinets for their cost savings. But, make sure you know your skills and time commitment. Use 3/4-inch hardwood or metal strips with bolt holes for wall cabinets to keep them steady¹⁹. Stock cabinets come in sizes from 12 to 60 inches wide, which might affect your layout²⁰.

If you want professional help, many stores like The Home Depot offer installation or can connect you with local pros. Experts are great for tricky jobs, ensuring everything fits right. They’re especially useful with semi-custom or custom cabinets, which take about nine weeks to arrive²⁰. Choose drawers with full-extension guides and consider “soft close” for extra luxury¹⁹.

Choosing the right installation method is key for your cabinets to last and work well. Make sure shelves are 3/4-inch plywood to avoid sagging. Look at the different hardware options, like drawer pulls and hinges, available in materials like metal and plastic¹⁹²⁰. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a great kitchen.

FAQ

What are the different types of kitchen cabinets available?

There are three main types: stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets. Stock cabinets are pre-made and easy to find. Semi-custom and custom options let you tailor them to your needs.

What materials are kitchen cabinets typically made of?

Cabinets are often made from solid wood, plywood, or particleboard. The choice of material affects their strength, look, and price.

What factors should I consider when buying kitchen cabinets?

Think about size, style, installation needs, budget, and timeline. These factors affect how well the cabinets work, look, and how much they cost.

Where can I find affordable kitchen cabinet options?

Stores like IKEA, The Home Depot, and Lowe’s have many budget-friendly cabinets. You can find everything from modular systems to stock cabinets from various brands.

What are the benefits of custom or semi-custom cabinets?

Custom and semi-custom cabinets let you tailor their size, style, and function. They’re great for unique kitchens and specific tastes.

Can I buy kitchen cabinets online?

Yes, you can buy cabinets online at places like CabinetSelect.com and other websites. They offer a wide selection, including Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) options, for easy shopping.

Where can I find high-end, designer kitchen cabinets?

For luxury cabinets, check out designer stores like Stoffer Home Cabinetry and Plain English. They provide bespoke services and design help for top-tier kitchens.

How much do kitchen cabinets typically cost?

Cabinet prices vary a lot by type, quality, and custom level. For a standard kitchen, mid-range to custom cabinets might cost ,000 to ,000. Stock cabinets are usually cheaper.

Should I install kitchen cabinets myself or hire professionals?

Whether to DIY or hire pros depends on your skills, time, and the job’s complexity. Many stores offer installation help or can connect you with local experts.