Replacing kitchen cabinets gives your kitchen a fresh look and improved functionality. Depending on your budget, time, and design goals, there are several options—ranging from full custom work to budget-friendly DIY solutions.
Here’s a breakdown of all your cabinet replacement options:
1. Full Cabinet Replacement
What It Is:
Removing and replacing all cabinet boxes, doors, and drawer fronts with new units.
Pros:
- Complete freedom in layout and design
- Option to improve storage and workflow
- New materials are often more durable
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Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Requires professional installation (unless you DIY)
Read More: Full Basement Ideas & Floor Plans: The Complete Guide to Smart, Stylish Layouts
Cost:
- Stock cabinets: $100–$300 per linear foot
- Semi-custom: $150–$600 per linear foot
- Custom: $500–$1,200+ per linear foot
Best for major renovations or layout changes.
Read More: What is the most affordable cabinet material for my kitchen?
2. Cabinet Refacing (Resurfacing)
What It Is:
Keep existing cabinet boxes, but replace all doors and drawer fronts, and apply a veneer or laminate to the visible parts of the cabinet structure.
Pros:
- 30–50% cheaper than full replacement
- Less mess and time (usually done in 2–5 days)
- Still gives a new look
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Cons:
- Doesn’t fix damaged or poorly-built cabinet boxes
- Limited to your current layout
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Cost:
- $80–$200 per linear foot
- Typical kitchen total: $3,000–$10,000
Best if your cabinet boxes are still strong and well-placed.
Read More: What can I do to plan for a kitchen remodel?
3. Ready-to-assemble (RTA) Cabinets
What It Is:
Prefabricated cabinets you assemble and install yourself (or hire someone to help).
Pros:
- Big cost savings
- Good quality for the price
- Fast shipping
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Cons:
- Assembly required
- Limited custom sizing
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Cost:
- $70–$250 per linear foot
Ideal for DIYers or tight budgets.
Read More: What are the best ways to build kitchen cabinets?
4. Stock Cabinets
What It Is:
Pre-manufactured cabinets sold in standard sizes at home improvement stores.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- In stock and ready to pick up
- Many styles and finishes are available
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Cons:
- Limited sizing and configuration
- Often, lower material quality
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Cost:
- $60–$200 per linear foot
Perfect for landlords, rentals, or secondary kitchens.
Read More: How to plan a successful kitchen remodeling project?
5. Semi-Custom Cabinets
What It Is:
Factory-built cabinets with some customization (e.g., door style, finish, depth).
Pros:
- More flexibility than stock
- Higher-quality materials and finishes
- Easier than custom but still stylish
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Cons:
- More expensive than stock
- Longer lead time (3–6 weeks)
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Cost:
- $150–$600 per linear foot
Great balance of cost and customization.
Read More: How to choose kitchen cabinets when remodeling?
6. Custom Cabinets
What It Is:
Built from scratch to your exact design, size, and material specs.
Pros:
- 100% customization
- Best material quality
- Optimized for oddly shaped or premium kitchens
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Cons:
- Expensive
- Long lead time
- Requires expert design and installation
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Cost:
- $500–$1,200+ per linear foot
Best for luxury kitchens or complex layouts.
Read More: How do you buy kitchen cabinets on a budget?
Pro Tips for Replacing Cabinets:
- Reuse or repaint boxes: If your cabinets are structurally sound, refacing or painting can save thousands.
- Change only upper or lower cabinets: To cut costs while improving layout.
- Soft-close hardware: Adds a premium touch without the huge cost.
- Upgrade lighting inside cabinets: Consider motion-sensor LED strips.
Read More: How to do DIY kitchen cabinetry and countertops cheaply?
Conclusion
OptionBest ForBudget Range
Full Replacement New layouts, major upgrades $$$–$$$$
Refacing Cosmetic updates, low hassle $$–$$$
RTA Cabinets DIY projects, small budgets $–$$
Stock Cabinets Rentals, fast replacements $
Semi-Custom Stylish, mid-range remodels $$–$$$
Custom Luxury, high-end kitchens $$$$+
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