Cabinet makers, also known as millworkers, design, build, and install custom cabinetry and architectural millwork in homes and businesses. Their fees can vary greatly depending on the scope and complexity of the project, location, materials used, and level of customization. This article will examine the key factors that influence cabinet maker rates and provide typical price ranges for common cabinetry projects.
Average Costs of Hiring a Cabinet Maker
On average, expect to pay $50 to $100 per hour for a cabinet maker’s labor. Most charge by the project rather than hourly, with the typical range being $2,000 to $10,000 for a mid-sized kitchen with semi-custom cabinets. Here are some standard price ranges based on project scope:
- Basic Cabinet Refacing: $2,000 to $4,000
- New Modular Cabinet Install: $3,000 to $7,000
- Custom Built-in Bookcases: $4,000 to $10,000
- Luxury Custom Kitchen Cabinets: $15,000 to $30,000+
However, many variables affect the final price, which we’ll explore in the sections below. Always get an itemized quote from cabinet makers before hiring them. Many provide free consultations and estimates.
Factors That Influence Cabinetry Costs
Several key factors impact the costs of cabinet installations and custom cabinetry:
Scope of the Project
The size of the cabinetry project impacts the costs. A full kitchen will cost more than a bathroom vanity. Luxury great rooms or media walls with expansive built-ins have much higher costs than basic laundry room shelving. The number of cabinets needed is the biggest supply cost. More complex storage systems, unique designs, and specialty features will also increase labor time.
Type of Cabinets
Prices vary drastically depending on materials, quality, features, brand, and customization level:
- Stock or Modular: Pre-made cabinet boxes and doors ordered from a catalog in standard sizes. $50 to $250 per linear foot.
- Semi-Custom: Stock cabinets modified with custom doors, drawers, finishes and hardware. $100 to $350 per linear foot.
- Custom: Each cabinet constructed from scratch to your specifications. $250 to $1000+ per linear foot.
Cabinet Materials
More exclusive materials increase costs significantly:
- Plywood: Most affordable and common. $50-150 per linear foot.
- Laminates: Durable and budget-friendly. $75-200 per linear foot.
- Solid Wood: Attractive but expensive. $250+ per linear foot.
- Exotic Wood Veneers: Luxurious and rare. $500+ per linear foot.
- Glass: Adds modern style. $100-300 per linear foot.
- Stone: Natural elegance at a premium. $200+ per linear foot.
Hardware
Another big cost factor is the cabinet hardware selected, including hinges, pulls, knobs and slides. Entry-level hardware starts around $2 per piece while premium hardware can cost $25+ per piece. Opting for soft-closing hinges will increase costs by $20+ per door.
Labor Cost Factors
Labor accounts for 50-70% of total cabinet installation costs. Several factors influence labor fees:
- Experience: Master craftsmen charge $80-150 per hour. Apprentices cost $30-60 per hour.
- Project Scope Complexity: Simple, straight kitchen lines take less time than intricate built-ins and storage solutions.
- Accessibility: Tight spaces or awkward angles increase time spent.
- Permits: Some areas require permits for major renovations, adding fees.
- Location: Labor rates vary based on typical wages in different regions.
Countertop Installation
Most cabinet makers also install countertops as part of their service. Granite, quartz, marble, soapstone and other natural stone countertops range from $60-150 per square foot installed. Tile, wood, laminate, and other materials cost $20-60 per square foot installed.
How Cabinet Makers Price Their Services
There are a few common ways cabinet makers structure their rates:
- By the hour: Less common, as it makes it harder to estimate overall costs. Hourly rates range $50-150.
- Per linear foot: A common pricing model for kitchens, charging by the total linear footage of cabinets being installed. Prices range $50-500 per linear foot.
- Flat project fee: Many cabinet makers quote a flat rate for the entire project including design, cabinetry, labor, and installation. Typical flat rates range from $2,000 for a bathroom vanity up to $30,000+ for an elaborate, luxury kitchen.
- Cost plus fixed fee: Charges actual material and labor costs plus a fixed markup percentage, often 20-30%. Gives flexibility in pricing.
- Allowances: A set budget for certain aspects like hardware makes it easier to control some costs. Any overage gets charged on top.
Always make sure you understand exactly what is included in the cabinet maker’s quote and get it in writing before proceeding.
Saving on Cabinet Maker Costs
Here are some tips to save on cabinetry projects:
- Use stock or modular cabinets instead of custom-built.
- Opt for laminates over solid woods, and avoid exotic materials.
- Install cabinets yourself and hire a carpenter just for design help.
- Refinish or reface existing cabinets rather than replace.
- Choose simple cabinet facades with minimal detailing.
- Buy cabinets unassembled and put together yourself.
- Provide your own materials purchased at wholesale outlets.
- Avoid complicated storage features like lazy susans and pull-out shelves.
- Get quotes from several cabinet makers to compare rates.
- Offer to assist with demolition and prep work yourself.
FAQs About Cabinet Maker Rates and Prices
How much should I budget for a kitchen or bathroom remodel?
For a mid-range major kitchen remodel with semi-custom cabinets expect to budget $20,000 to $50,000. Bathroom remodels typically range from $4,000 to $12,000 depending on size and materials. Always get quotes.
How can I get accurate price estimates?
Have cabinet makers visit your space to take measurements. Provide room dimensions, diagrams, inspiration photos, and your desired materials and features. Get quotes from 3-4 cabinet makers for the most accurate average price for your project specifics.
Should I pay hourly or a fixed project fee?
For larger projects, a fixed fee provides price certainty. For small jobs, you may get better value paying hourly. Get multiple quotes both ways. However, you pay, get everything in writing first.
Is it cheaper to buy cabinets online vs. locally?
Sometimes, but at the risk of quality issues and no customization. Work with a local cabinet maker and see if they will install cabinets you source yourself at reduced installation fees.
Should I hire a kitchen designer, architect, or directly hire a cabinet maker?
For complex projects, work with a designer or architect first to draw plans, then hire a cabinet maker directly to build and install. For simple projects, go directly to a cabinet maker. Discuss your vision and options.
How soon should I get quotes if I’m planning a remodel?
Ideally 6-8 weeks before your target start date. Cabinet makers are often booked far in advance. You want multiple quotes and adequate time to compare, make a selection, and order cabinets which can take 4+ weeks.
What questions should I ask when vetting cabinet makers?
Ask about their training and credentials, years of experience, examples of past work and references, types of cabinets they recommend, what’s included, timeline estimations, and payment terms. Get a sense of their communication style as well.
Key Takeaways: What Impacts Cabinet Maker Costs?
- Project size and complexity
- Level of customization
- Types of materials used
- Hardware selections
- Regional labor rates
- Contractor experience level
- Accessibility of space
For the highest quality results, invest in custom cabinetry from an experienced local millworker. Get multiple quotes to find both the best value and the right experience level for your specific needs. Carefully weigh the cost versus value trade-offs of different materials and customization options. With some smart planning and research, you can end up with beautiful and functional cabinetry that enhances your home within a reasonable budget.