How much do new kitchen cabinets cost?

For a 10x10 kitchen, stock cabinets cost $1,200-$5,000, semi-custom $3,750-$10,000, and custom $12,500-$30,000+. Add $1,000-$3,750 for professional installation. Cabinets typically represent 30-40% of total kitchen remodel cost. Is cabinet refacing worth it?

Is cabinet refacing worth it?

Cabinet refacing saves 40-50% compared to full replacement and can be completed in 3-5 days vs weeks for new cabinets. It's worth it if your current layout works and cabinet boxes are structurally sound. New doors and veneer can completely transform the look. What is the most popular kitchen cabinet style?

What is the most popular kitchen cabinet style?

Shaker style cabinets dominate with 40%+ market share. Their simple five-piece frame design works with traditional, transitional, and modern kitchens. Flat/slab doors are growing in popularity for contemporary designs. Should I choose plywood or particleboard cabinets?

Should I choose plywood or particleboard cabinets?

Plywood cabinet boxes are stronger, more moisture-resistant, and hold screws better. They cost 10-20% more but last significantly longer, especially in kitchens with moisture exposure. For quality that lasts 20+ years, choose plywood construction.

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Kitchen Cabinet Guide: Types, Materials, Cost & Refacing

Lumberama Editorial Team, Kitchen Design & Cabinetry Specialists Nov 13, 2026 10 min read

Cabinet Types

Stock cabinets: Pre-made in standard sizes. Available at home centers (HD, Lowes). Cost: $60-$200 per linear foot. Lead time: immediate to 1-2 weeks. Limited sizes and configurations. Good quality for the price.

Semi-custom: Standard sizes with more finish and configuration options. Brands: KraftMaid, Merillat, Thomasville. Cost: $150-$400 per linear foot. Lead time: 4-8 weeks. Most popular choice. Best balance of options and value.

Custom: Built to exact specifications. Made by local cabinet shops or premium manufacturers. Cost: $500-$1,200+ per linear foot. Lead time: 8-16 weeks. Unlimited configurations. Best for unusual layouts or specific design visions.

RTA (ready-to-assemble): Flat-pack cabinets you assemble. Brands: IKEA, CliqStudios, Lily Ann. Cost: $50-$150 per linear foot. Quality varies widely. Good for DIY and budget-conscious remodels.

Construction Quality

Face frame vs frameless: Face frame (traditional American): has a 1.5-inch frame around cabinet opening. Stronger, easier to install. Frameless (European): door covers entire front. More accessible storage, modern look.

Box construction: Plywood sides: best quality, strongest. Furniture-board/MDF: mid-range, adequate for most homes. Particleboard: budget, can swell with moisture.

Drawer construction: Dovetail joints: highest quality indicator. Stapled butt joints: budget construction. Drawer slides: soft-close, full-extension are standard on quality cabinets.

Door construction: Solid wood: premium, can be refinished. MDF with veneer: consistent finish, won't warp. Thermofoil (vinyl-wrapped MDF): budget, can peel near heat sources.

Popular Door Styles

Shaker: Simple five-piece frame with flat center panel. Most popular style (40%+ of kitchens). Works with traditional, transitional, and modern.

Flat/slab: Smooth, handle-less appearance. Modern and contemporary kitchens. Growing popularity.

Raised panel: Traditional, formal look. Center panel is raised above frame. Classic for traditional kitchens.

Beadboard: Cottage/farmhouse style. Grooved panel in center. Casual and charming.

Cabinet vs Refacing vs Painting

Full cabinet replacement: Average 10x10 kitchen: $5,000-$25,000+ (cabinets only). Plus installation: $3,000-$8,000. Best when: layout is changing, cabinets are damaged, or a complete style change is desired.

Cabinet refacing: New doors and drawer fronts with veneer on cabinet boxes. Average 10x10 kitchen: $4,000-$10,000. Saves 40-50% vs replacement. Best when: current layout works, boxes are in good condition.

Cabinet painting: Professional painting of existing cabinets. Average 10x10 kitchen: $3,000-$7,000 (professional). DIY: $200-$600 in materials. Best when: cabinets are solid, you want a color change. Most affordable transformation.