Kitchen remodels can be expensive, especially replacing cabinets and countertops. However, with some planning and research, you can get a good estimate on the costs. Here is a detailed look at how much new kitchen cabinets and quartz countertops typically cost.
Cost of New Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets represent a major investment, often making up 30-40% of a kitchen remodel budget. Prices can vary drastically based on the type, style, and quality of cabinets.
Cabinet Types
There are three main types of kitchen cabinets:
- Stock cabinets: Pre-made and ready for quick delivery. Most affordable option but limited on sizes, styles and customization. Cost range: $80-300 per linear foot.
- Semi-custom cabinets: Offer more sizes, finishes and modifications than stock. Made to order. Mid-range pricing. Cost range: $200-500 per linear foot.
- Custom cabinets: Fully customized, made to your exact specifications. Most expensive option. Cost range: $500-1000+ per linear foot.
The type of cabinet you choose will greatly impact the total costs. Measure your kitchen and get quotes for each type to compare.
Cabinet Materials
Cabinet boxes and fronts can be made from different materials, each with their own characteristics:
- Wood (oak, maple, cherry): Classic option, wide stain options. Durable but requires more maintenance. Mid-to-high cost range.
- Thermofoil: Wood substrate with plastic laminate coating. Resistant to chips and scuffs. Affordable option.
- Melamine: Wood fibers coated in plastic resin. Most economical choice. Limited on style.
- Metal: Aluminum or stainless steel. Modern, industrial look. Higher costs but durable.
- Glass: Glass fronts or doors. Contemporary style. Higher costs and fragility.
Opt for high-quality wooden doors with durable interiors like plywood or melamine. Avoid lower grade particleboard which is prone to swelling and warping. The quality of the materials used makes a big difference in cost.
Door Styles
There are many kitchen cabinet door styles to give your space a unique look:
- Slab: Simple, flat panel design. Clean, minimalist look. Lower cost.
- Shaker: Classic door style with a flat center panel and square edges. Timeless look.
- Raised panel: Centers are raised and edged with a lip. Traditional elegant look.
- Glass insert: Glass cutout adds visual appeal. Costlier.
- Flat panel: Resembling Slab but with detailing on the door face. Mid-range pricing.
- Recessed panel: Center panel is recessed back, more ornate style. Higher costs.
The door style impacts aesthetics and price. Opt for durable styles like Shaker or Slab if on a budget.
Other Cabinet Cost Factors:
- Hardware selection (knobs, pulls, hinges)
- Additional storage options like roll-outs or spice racks
- Specialty cabinet solutions like blind corner, angled or appliance garages
- Island or peninsula costs
- Molding, trimwork and lighting costs
Consider where you can simplify to reduce costs vs. splurging on key statement pieces. Get multiple quotes before deciding on cabinets.
Countertop Costs
Along with cabinets, the countertops are a vital part of your kitchen’s style and function. Prices vary greatly by material.
Most Popular Countertop Options:
Granite Countertops
Pros: Beautiful natural stone patterns. Heat and scratch resistant. Timeless classic choice.
Cons: Requires periodic sealing. Some porous varieties can stain. Higher cost.
Cost Range: $60-$150 per square foot installed.
Quartz Countertops
Pros: Nearly maintenance free. Highly durable. Wide variety of colors and patterns.
Cons: Man-made material. Higher costs than laminate. Seams more visible.
Cost Range: $80-$150 per square foot installed.
Laminate Countertops
Pros: Very affordable option. Easy installation. Many patterns/colors to choose from.
Cons: Vulnerable to scratches, burns, moisture damage. Shorter lifespan.
Cost Range: $20-$50 per square foot installed.
Butcher Block Countertops
Pros: Warm, natural look. Classic style. Relatively easy DIY install.
Cons: Requires diligent sealing/oiling. Easily scratched or stained if not protected.
Cost Range: $30-$70 per square foot.
Other Cost Considerations:
- Edges and backsplashes – Add $10-20 per linear foot
- Special cutouts for sinks or appliances
- Extended installation time for larger surface areas
- Transportation fees for heavier materials like natural stone
Get detailed estimates from experienced countertop fabricators. Compare material samples in person before deciding.
Additional Costs To Factor In
Beyond just the cabinet and countertop costs, keep in mind expenses like:
- Plumbing and electrical adjustments
- Flooring replacement/repairs
- Drywall work and painting
- Removal and disposal of old cabinets/countertops
- Required building permits and inspections
- Increased labor costs for complex kitchen layouts
A full kitchen remodel often impacts appliances, lighting, ventilation and flooring as well. Complete renovations can run $20,000 to $50,000+. Make upgrades in phases if needed to spread out costs over time.
Tips for Reducing Kitchen Remodel Costs
To make your kitchen renovation more affordable, consider these tips:
- Shop sales and clearance sections for cabinets/materials.
- Opt for stock cabinets over custom to save on labor and sizing.
- Reduce the number of specialty cabinets like angled or roll-out.
- Keep existing cabinet layout if possible – fewer alterations means lower cost.
- Choose economical countertop material like butcher block or laminate.
- Install countertops yourself if experienced with DIY projects.
- Keep existing quality flooring like wood or tile to avoid replacement costs.
- Take on demolition and prep work like removing old cabinets yourself.
- Hire experienced professionals willing to offer discounts for full remodels.
- Pay upfront rather than financing to avoid interest charges.
With careful planning, budgeting and smart design choices, you can remodel your kitchen cost-effectively. Prioritize essential elements vs. splurges. Get multiple quotes before starting your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel?
For new cabinets and countertops expect to budget $10,000 to $30,000 depending on size, materials, existing infrastructure and customization. Full kitchen remodels run $20,000 to $50,000+.
Should I reface or replace kitchen cabinets?
If cabinets are structurally sound, refacing can achieve an updated look for 40-50% less cost. Replacement makes sense if laying out for better function or selecting different materials.
What is the most affordable countertop option?
Laminate is the most budget-friendly at $20-$50 per square foot installed. Butcher block and stainless steel can also be relatively affordable options.
Can I install a kitchen countertop myself?
Laminate and butcher block countertops can realistically be DIY projects. Stone and quartz are quite heavy, fragile and require special tools, so professional install is best.
How can I tell if my cabinets are solid wood or veneer?
Solid wood doors will feel hefty if tapped and the wood grain patterns will be continuous inside and out. Veneers have thinner doors and the wood patterns won’t flow around edges.
Is it cheaper to buy kitchen cabinets online?
Online retailers can offer more budget-friendly options but will charge large shipping fees. Local cabinet suppliers include installation in pricing and can handle adjustments and repairs.
Conclusion
While pricing varies widely, expect to invest around $15,000 to $25,000 to replace mid-range quality kitchen cabinets and quartz countertops in a typical 10×10 kitchen. Extra costs quickly add up for custom sizing, storage additions, specialty materials and extensive alterations. Carefully weigh the cabinets and countertops that best fit your budget, kitchen’s footprint and lifestyle needs. With some savvy planning and design ingenuity, you can realize the kitchen of your dreams at a cost you can afford.