Selecting the right cabinets for kitchen remodeling is essential to the success of the overall design of the room. Not only are they the primary source of storage for the room, but they also serve to tie together the backsplash, countertops and appliances. They are also usually the most expensive part of the project. Fortunately, cabinets come at a variety of price points in many different materials and colors. There are even a few do-it-yourself options for existing ones, so you should not have any trouble finding something that suits your decor and budget.
When selecting cabinets for your kitchen remodel, think about how you want them to look in your home and how much of your budget you are willing to spend. The craftsmanship, hardware, materials, design, and level of customization dictate the cost. Generally, there are three basic types with varying levels of customization. In-stock cabinets are the most economical option because they are not customized. They are pre-made, often pre-finished and can be purchased at home improvement stores, ready to install. Semi-custom models are a more expensive option. They come in a wider selection of materials, sizing, styles, and finishes and are selected from existing designs. The manufacturer will work closely with the person who designed your kitchen remodel. However, turnaround time from design approval to delivery can be 12 to 14 weeks. Finally, custom cabinets are made entirely from your specifications for size, material, finish, and hardware. This is a good option for odd-sized rooms and is not necessarily the most expensive option. A complete custom job can be more affordable than semi-custom models because you can select the materials, finishes and hardware. Talk to the firm handling your kitchen remodeling about your budget and the look you are trying to achieve to figure out which option is best.
There are also a few cheap alternatives to replacing your cabinets entirely. If you do not like the way they look, but replacing them is not in your budget, you may want to consider painting them. Start by cleaning them with a mixture of oxygenated bleach and dish detergent. Then, sand or use a liquid deglosser if the surfaces are glossy or use a primer if they are stained wood. If you decide to paint, you will need to remove all the knobs, pulls and hinges. While you are at it, you may want to replace the hardware with something to coordinate with the new color scheme. This simple switch will have a subtle but noticeable impact.
Alternatively, removing the cabinet doors is a free way to modify the room. If you do not have pets or a pest problem and do not mind storing your glasses and dishes neatly, it may work for you. Designers suggest that you experiment with the look for a week to make sure that you like it, then remove the fittings to make the change permanent.
Kitchen remodeling has the potential to add thousands of dollars to your home’s value. Regardless of your budget, you should be able to create a room in which you enjoy spending time.
