How to Budget Kitchen Cabinet Replacement

Create a budget to replace old, worn out kitchen cabinets.

Replacing your cabinets can give your entire kitchen a brand new look, even if that's the only change you make. New cabinets can change the look, style and feel of the kitchen. However, your budget and desires will determine how much of a change you are willing or able to accomplish. Even on a small budget, you can make a huge visual change without actually changing much.

Things You'll Need

• Just Time

Instructions

1. Determine exactly how much money you have to spend on your new cabinets. Knowing what your budget is will allow you to make informed decisions to get the results closest to what you want for the price you can afford.

2. Inspect your cabinets to see if the current dimensions and layout work for your needs. Replacing the cabinets with new cabinets of the same size is simpler -- and usually less costly -- than changing the layout or size of the cabinets.

3. Measure your current cabinets if you plan to use the same layout and dimensions. If not, measure the exact space you have designated for cabinets including the depth, width and height of each section. For example, replacing cabinets that don't go all the way to the ceiling with cabinets that do will require a different height measurement.

4. Pick out your new cabinets. Stock cabinets are typically less expensive than semi-custom or completely custom, though you are limited to standard cabinet sizes. The cabinets are usually stocked at home improvement stores in a variety of finishes and colors. Alternatively, semi-custom and custom cabinets can be any dimensions and finish you want. You may have to wait a few weeks for the delivery of custom cabinets.

5. Purchase new cabinet doors in your chosen style and finish. Mix in glass doors, or leave some cabinets open if your style warrants open cabinets, such as a built-in dish or wine rack.

6. Pick out new hardware, such as hinges and knobs.

7. Find the best price for the cabinets, doors and hardware you've chosen. Browse home improvement warehouse stores, as well as online establishments to compare prices and options.

Tips & Warnings

• All of these areas may not apply to your project but many of them are often forgotten while people set their budget.

• Do not complete any part of this job personally unless you are professionally skilled in that area. The look of work completed by a homeowner is usually noticable and lowers the final value of your project. A good remodel will look like you never touched anything.

References

• Kitchen Cabinets: Kitchen Cabinet Replacement
• Home Guide 123: Replacing Kitchen Cabinet Doors -- A Cost Effective Way for a Kitchen Makeover
• The Proficient Cabinets: Tips and Ideas