Kitchen cabinets come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and weights. The exact weight of your kitchen cabinets will depend on several factors, including the material, construction, size, and any customizations. Understanding how much assembled and unassembled cabinets typically weigh can help you plan your kitchen remodel properly.

Average Weight of Assembled Kitchen Cabinets

Once fully constructed, the average weight of standard kitchen cabinets is:

Base cabinets – 75 to 100 lbs each
Wall cabinets – 50 to 75 lbs each
Tall pantry cabinets – 100 to 150 lbs each

The weight can vary based on:

Cabinet Material

Wood – Solid wood is heavier than engineered wood products like plywood and particleboard. Oak, maple, and hickory are dense hardwoods that weigh more than pine, poplar, and alder.
MDF – Medium density fiberboard is made from wood fibers and weighs about 50 lbs per square foot at 3/4″ thickness. MDF is heavier than plywood.
Melamine – Particleboard coated in plastic laminate is lightweight. Melamine cabinets weigh about 30% less than solid wood.
Thermofoil – PVC thermally fused onto MDF or particleboard is also lightweight. Similar to melamine at about 30 lbs per base cabinet.
Metal – Steel and stainless steel cabinets are the heaviest option, weighing up to 200 lbs each.

Cabinet Size

Larger cabinets weigh more than smaller ones. For example:

A 30-inch base sink cabinet weighs 80 to 100 lbs.
A 36-inch base cabinet weighs 90 to 120 lbs.

Door Style

Solid wood slab doors are heavier than framed panel doors.
Glass insert doors weigh less than solid wood or paneled doors.
Larger or double doors weigh more than standard single doors.

Drawers and Shelves

The more drawers and adjustable shelves inside a cabinet, the heavier it will be overall. Sturdy full-extension drawer slides and thicker cabinet shelves add weight.

Hardware

Stainless steel hardware, soft-close hinges, and undermount drawer glides contribute slightly more weight compared to standard hardware.

Average Weight of Unassembled Kitchen Cabinets

When purchased unassembled or as stock cabinets, the weight per box ranges from:

Base cabinets – 65 to 80 lbs per box
Wall cabinets – 35 to 50 lbs per box
Tall pantry cabinet – 70 to 100 lbs per box

This can vary based on the cabinet style and manufacturer. Custom cabinets sold as individual pieces usually weigh:

Base unit sides – 25 to 35 lbs each
Wall unit sides – 10 to 15 lbs each
Cabinet fronts – 25 to 50 lbs each
Cabinet backs – 10 to 20 lbs each
Drawers – 5 to 10 lbs each
Doors – 8 to 15 lbs each
Shelves – 5 to 8 lbs each

Factors That Determine Kitchen Cabinet Weight

There are several key factors that affect the weight of both assembled and unassembled kitchen cabinets:

1. Cabinet Material

The type of material used to construct the cabinet box, doors, and face frames largely determines the weight:

Solid wood – Heavier hardwoods like oak and hickory are dense and weigh more than lighter softwoods such as pine.
Plywood – Weighs less than solid wood but more than particleboard. Birch ply is lighter than oak ply.
Particleboard – Made from wood fragments and weighs about 50 lbs per sheet. Denser than plywood.
MDF – Very dense fiberboard that weighs 65 lbs or more per sheet. Heavier than particleboard.
Melamine – Particleboard or MDF with a plastic laminate coating is lighter.
Thermally fused laminate (TFL) – Melamine applied with heat and pressure to wood substrates. Lightweight.
Metal – Steel or stainless steel are the heaviest options.

2. Cabinet Construction

How the cabinets are designed and engineered also affects the weight:

Framed vs frameless – Framed cabinets have heavier face frames.
Dovetail joinery – Sturdy interlocking joints weigh more than staples or screws.
Thick materials – 3⁄4-inch cabinet sides are heavier than 1⁄2-inch thickness.
Integral styles – Full overlay doors cover cabinet face frames, reducing weight.
Drawers – More drawers increase weight from slides and fronts.
Adjustable shelves – Add 5-8 lbs per shelf.
Glazing – Glass cabinet doors weigh less than wood.

3. Cabinet Size and Style

The dimensions and configuration of the cabinets impact weight as well:

Larger cabinets – Weigh more than smaller sizes.
Double doors – Are heavier than single doors.
More doors/drawers – Increase weight with each door and drawer.
Taller height – Wall and pantry cabinets weigh more.
Deep cabinets – 36 to 48-inch depth is heavier.
Oven cabinet – Designed to contain a heavy appliance.
Angled cabinets – Require more material to construct.
Custom cabinets – Tend to weigh more than stock.

4. Cabinet Hardware

The hardware attached to cabinets contributes slightly to overall weight:

Hinges – Sturdy soft-close hinges weigh more than basic hinges.
Drawer glides – Steel undermount glides are heavier than side-mount.
Pulls/knobs – Vary from very light to moderately heavy.
Shelving – Thicker adjustable shelves weigh more.

5. Cabinet Finish and Details

Aesthetic aspects like finish and moldings also impact weight:

Thick paints – Multiple coats of paint can slightly increase weight.
Stains and glazes – Do not add much over a basic finish.
Distressed details – Physical abrasions to achieve a worn look do not change weight.
Trim and moldings – Decorative elements can moderately increase weight.

Estimating Total Cabinetry Weight in a Kitchen

To estimate the total weight of cabinets for your kitchen remodel, follow these steps:

1. Count All Cabinets

Make a list of all the base, wall, and tall cabinets you plan to install. For example:

5 base cabinets – 36 inches wide
3 base cabinets – 24 inches wide
8 wall cabinets – 30 inches wide
1 tall pantry cabinet

2. Look Up Average Weights

Use the typical weights listed earlier in this article to assign a weight to each cabinet. For example:

36-inch base cabinet – 110 lbs
24-inch base cabinet – 85 lbs
30-inch wall cabinet – 60 lbs
Tall pantry cabinet – 125 lbs

3. Multiply Quantities

Multiply the weight of each cabinet by the quantity you have of that size.

For example:

5 x 36-inch base cabinets at 110 lbs each = 550 lbs
3 x 24-inch base cabinets at 85 lbs each = 255 lbs
8 x 30-inch wall cabinets at 60 lbs each = 480 lbs
1 x Tall pantry cabinet at 125 lbs = 125 lbs

4. Total all Cabinet Weights

Add up the weights of all cabinets to get an estimated total weight.

For this example kitchen, the total cabinet weight is:

Base cabinets (550 + 255) = 805 lbs
Wall cabinets = 480 lbs
Tall pantry cabinet = 125 lbs

Total weight = 805 + 480 + 125 = 1,410 lbs

This estimate helps you understand the load capacity needed for delivery and installation. It also assists in planning for disposal of old cabinets.

Knowing approximately how much fully assembled and unassembled kitchen cabinets weigh provides valuable insight for kitchen remodeling projects. Carefully consider the cabinet style, size, materials, and construction to estimate the total weight. Accurate calculations ensure safe delivery and simplified installation of your beautiful new dream kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Cabinet Weight

How much do pre-assembled cabinets weigh?

On average, pre-assembled stock kitchen cabinets weigh between 65-100 lbs per box, depending on size. Base cabinets are at the heavier end around 80-100 lbs and wall cabinets at the lighter end around 50-70 lbs.

How much does a 30-inch base cabinet weigh?

A typical 30-inch assembled base cabinet weighs 75-90 lbs. Unassembled, it’s about 65-80 lbs per box. The exact weight varies by material and style. Solid wood doors and drawers make it heavier.

What is the lightest material for kitchen cabinets?

Melamine and thermally fused laminate (TFL) finished particleboard or MDF are the lightest kitchen cabinet materials, reducing weight by about 30% compared to wood. Metal and glass are other lightweight options.

How much does a 12-foot kitchen cabinet weigh?

An assembled 12-foot kitchen cabinet can weigh over 300 pounds. Unassembled 12 footers are shipped in sections, with each box weighing 80 to 150 lbs depending on whether its a base cabinet, wall cabinet or corner unit.

Should I get assembled or ready-to-assemble cabinets?

Assembled cabinets are heavier and more difficult to maneuver, but don’t require installation work. Ready-to-assemble cabinets are lighter and easier to handle, but need some assembly. Consider your time, skill level and lifting capacity.

How do you calculate total cabinet weight?

Make a count of all cabinets needed. Look up the average weight of each cabinet type and size. Multiply the weight by the quantity of each cabinet. Add up the total weights to estimate overall kitchen cabinet weight.

What is the difference between rough carpentry and finish carpentry for cabinets?

Rough carpentry prepares the framing, floors and walls for cabinet installation. Finish carpentry is fitting the premade cabinets in place, securing them, adjusting doors and drawers, and adding trim and molding.

How much weight can cabinet screws hold?

Most cabinet installation screws can hold 100-400 lbs each depending on size, material, and whether they are screwed into studs. Using many screws ensures strong support for heavy upper cabinets.

How to Determine the Weight Capacity Needed for Cabinets

When remodeling your kitchen, an important consideration is determining how much weight your existing flooring and walls can hold for new cabinetry installation. Exceeding the load bearing capacity can cause structural damage or collapse. Checking the weight capacity before selecting cabinets helps create a safe, functional kitchen.

Consider the Total Cabinet Weight

Add up the estimated weights of all wall and base cabinetry using the typical weights listed earlier. This includes:

Base cabinets (sink, drawer, door, blind corner, etc)
Wall cabinets (upper and tall pantry)
Heavy specialty cabinets like oven housing or large pantries

Account for heavier custom designs, glass doors, extra thick materials, and additional hardware. Know the total dead load weight you need the home to safely hold.

Evaluate the Flooring

For cabinetry on the ground level, assess if the current flooring can handle the load:

Concrete slab – Can hold 500-1000 lbs per sq ft. A 6×10 ft kitchen area could hold 30,000-60,000 lbs total.
Wood subfloor – Typically allows for 40-50 lbs per sq ft of cabinet weight. Older or compromised subfloor may need reinforcement.
Floor joists – Should have 10-15% excess load capacity above total cabinet weight. Check size and spacing.

Assess the Walls and Ceiling

Walls need to be strong enough to install and hold upper cabinets securely:

Wall studs – Interior walls with 16” wood or steel studs can handle 50-100 lbs each.
Plaster/drywall – Can support 50 lbs per sq ft. Greenboard moisture-resistant drywall is heavier.
Ceiling joists – Must have 10-15% extra capacity above cabinet weight load.
Hanging strips – Special cleats allow distributing upper cabinet weight across multiple studs/joists.

Account for Other Items

Consider the weight of additional kitchen items the structure needs to sustain:

Countertops – Stone, quartz, and solid surface weigh 15 to 20 lbs per sq ft.
Tile backsplash – Ceramic or natural stone tile adds 2 to 6 lbs per sq ft.
Appliances – Ranges, fridges, and dishwashers vary in weight from 100-1000 lbs.
Plumbing – Pipes full of water weigh 5-10 lbs per linear foot.
Food storage – Shelves and cabinets will hold canned goods and staples.

Increase Load Bearing Capacity

If needed, there are ways to reinforce and enhance the load capacity:

Add supports – Supplementary beams, posts, joints, and braces distribute weight.
Upgrade flooring – Additional layers of structural subfloor sheathing adds strength.
Use backers – Hanging strips mounted to studs accommodate upper cabinet weight.
Reinforce walls – Extra blocking between studs or sturdier drywall improves capacity.
Lower ceilings – Eliminate floor joists above by dropping ceiling height.

Get professional advice from contractors, structural engineers, and architects if significant reinforcement is needed.

Conclusion

Determining the weight your existing home structure can safely accommodate is a key factor when installing kitchen cabinetry. Carefully calculating total cabinet weight and evaluating the floor, walls, and ceiling capacity avoids overloading. Reinforce as needed to support heavy cabinets. This ensures your new kitchen cabinets remain secure for maximum storage and functionality.

What is the typical weight per linear foot of kitchen cabinets?

On average, base kitchen cabinets weigh 25-30 lbs per linear foot while wall cabinets weigh 15-20 lbs per linear foot. This varies based on material, construction, height, depth, and features. Solid wood is heavier than melamine or thermofoil. Deeper cabinets weigh more than standard 24″ depth.

How do you secure tall wall cabinets to the wall?

Use cleats, crossties, flipper door anchors, and stud plates attached firmly to wall studs to distribute tall cabinet weight. Attach cabinets with several long screws through the cabinet back and into the strips, studs, or anchors. Support near the top and bottom for maximum stability.

Should base or wall cabinets be installed first?

It’s generally easier to start with the base cabinets so they fully support the wall cabinets above them. However, some pros prefer installing wall cabinets first so ceilings don’t restrict base cabinet placement. Assess the space and choose the best order for your project.

What is the maximum number of cabinets you can hang on one wall stud?

Most experts recommend limiting cabinets hung on each wall stud to two or three at most. Trying to support more per stud can overload it. Use specialty hanging strips and anchors to disperse weight across multiple studs for large groupings.

Should you attach adjacent cabinets together before installing?

Yes, use screws through the cabinet sides or L-brackets inside the cabinet to join cabinets prior to mounting them on the wall. This provides more stability, keeps them aligned, and allows installing in larger sections.

How Cabinet Construction Impacts Weight

Kitchen cabinet construction involves several elements that influence the overall weight and durability. Understanding cabinetry components and engineering helps select strong, lightweight designs:

Cabinet Box

The outer structure forming the basic cupboard space impacts weight based on:

Material – Particleboard is lighter than plywood, and engineered woods are lighter than solid wood. Melamine is the lightest.
Thickness – 3⁄4-inch sides are heavier but stronger than 1⁄2-inch thickness.
Joinery – Dovetails, dowels, and rabbets add stability and weight vs staples or screws.
Back style – Detached backs eliminate weight but reduce sturdiness.

Face Frames

The front framing attaches doors and drawers adding weight through:

Wood type – Oak or maple frames weigh more than poplar or pine.
Width – Wider 1 1⁄2 to 2 1⁄2-inch frames are heavier.
Attachment – Thicker screws or multiple dowels add weight over staples.
Design – Inset cabinet face frames weigh more than overlapping.

Doors

Door construction and size greatly impacts weight:

Material – Solid wood is heaviest, then veneer, followed by lightweight melamine.
Design – Paneled doors weigh less than solid slab doors.
Hardware – Sturdy hinges and slides increase weight slightly.
Size – Larger doors and doubles are heavier.
Moldings – Decorative routings and details add some weight.

Drawers

More drawers increase weight through:

Material – Solid hardwood sides are heavy, plywood is medium, and melamine light.
Joinery – Dovetails add stability and weight over basic joints.
Fronts – Thick solid fronts weigh most, then veneer, melamine, or MDF.
Slide hardware – Steel undermount glides weigh more than side-mount.

Shelving

Interior storage adds weight depending on:

Material – Glass or wire shelves are light. Plywood or melamine are heavier.
Thickness – Thicker shelves up to 1-inch are heavier but sturdier.

How Much Do Kitchen Cabinets Weigh?