You can get kitchen cabinets from many places near you, including big box home improvement stores, specialized kitchen cabinet suppliers, local cabinet makers, online retailers, and dedicated kitchen cabinet showrooms. The best place for you depends on your budget, timeline, and whether you need fully assembled, custom kitchen cabinets near me, or simple box units.
Deciding where to buy new kitchen cabinets is a big step. Your kitchen cabinets are the heart of your kitchen. They affect how the room looks and how well it works. Finding the right source for your needs is key. This guide will help you look at all the options available when you search, “Where to buy kitchen cabinets.”
Exploring Your Kitchen Cabinet Options
When you start shopping, you will find cabinets fall into a few main groups based on how they are built and sold. Knowing these types will help you narrow down your search for kitchen cabinet suppliers.
Types of Kitchen Cabinets Available
Cabinets are generally sold in three main styles:
- Stock Cabinets: These are pre-made cabinets built in standard sizes. They are ready to ship or pick up quickly. Think of these as “off the shelf.” They are usually the most budget-friendly choice. You can often find these as in-stock kitchen cabinets at large stores.
- Semi-Custom Kitchen Cabinets: These offer more choices than stock cabinets. You can pick different door styles, finishes, and sizes that are slightly adjusted from standard measurements. This gives you a blend of speed and personalization. They are a popular middle ground for many homeowners looking for semi-custom kitchen cabinets.
- Custom Kitchen Cabinets: These are built just for your space. You choose everything: materials, exact sizes, special features, and finishes. They offer the best fit and look but take the longest and cost the most. People often search for custom kitchen cabinets near me when they have unique layouts.
Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Cabinets
RTA kitchen cabinets are another popular choice today. These come unassembled in flat boxes. You put them together yourself. This cuts down on shipping costs and assembly labor fees charged by kitchen cabinet installers. They are great for DIY lovers or those seeking discount kitchen cabinets. However, assembly requires time and careful attention to instructions.
Where to Find Kitchen Cabinets Locally
Your local search for “Where can I get kitchen cabinets near me?” will point you toward several types of retailers. Each has pros and cons regarding price, customization, and service.
Big Box Home Improvement Stores
Large chains are often the first stop for many shoppers. They carry stock and semi-custom lines.
Pros:
* Easy to visit multiple options in one trip.
* Often have clearance or kitchen cabinet liquidation sales.
* Offer financing options.
Cons:
* Staff knowledge can vary widely.
* Limited truly custom options.
Dedicated Kitchen Cabinet Showrooms
Kitchen cabinet showrooms focus only on kitchens. They are staffed by design experts. These places usually focus on mid-to-high-end semi-custom kitchen cabinets and full custom builds.
Pros:
* Professional design assistance is included.
* You can see physical samples and finishes up close.
* Often work directly with reputable kitchen cabinet installers.
Cons:
* Prices tend to be higher due to the level of service.
* Lead times for custom work can be long.
Local Cabinet Makers and Craftsmen
If you want unique designs or need cabinets to fit tricky spaces perfectly, look for local woodworkers. They build truly custom kitchen cabinets near me.
Pros:
* Highest level of customization possible.
* You support local businesses.
* Quality control is usually very high.
Cons:
* Most expensive option overall.
* Requires careful vetting of their portfolio and references.
Online Retailers and Discount Suppliers
The internet changed how we shop for cabinets. You can find great deals from kitchen cabinet suppliers operating solely online.
- RTA Specialists: Many sites specialize only in RTA kitchen cabinets. Prices are low, but you do all the work.
- Online Semi-Custom Shops: These allow you to design your kitchen online and ship the components to you.
- Liquidation and Overstock Sites: These sites often feature discount kitchen cabinets from over-ordered projects or discontinued lines. Look out for kitchen cabinet liquidation events.
| Supplier Type | Customization Level | Price Range (Relative) | Time to Delivery | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Woodworker | Very High (Full Custom) | $$$$ | Longest | Unique Spaces, Premium Quality |
| Kitchen Cabinet Showrooms | Medium to High (Semi-Custom) | $$$ | Medium to Long | Design Guidance, Quality Finishes |
| Big Box Stores | Low to Medium (Stock/Semi-Custom) | $$ | Short to Medium | Quick Renovations, Budget Focus |
| Online (RTA/Discount) | Low to Medium | $ | Varies (Can be fast) | DIY Enthusiasts, Tight Budgets |
Deciphering Cabinet Quality and Materials
Once you know where to look, you need to focus on what you are buying. Cabinet quality affects longevity and price. Good kitchen cabinet suppliers will be clear about their materials.
Cabinet Box Construction
The box is the structural part of the cabinet. Look for durable materials.
- Plywood: This is the best material for cabinet boxes. It resists moisture well and is strong. Higher-end custom kitchen cabinets near me usually use furniture-grade plywood.
- Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF): Cheaper than plywood. It is heavy and good for painting. However, it swells badly if it gets wet.
- Particleboard: The least expensive option. It is weak and prone to damage from moisture. Avoid this unless buying very cheap discount kitchen cabinets.
Door Styles and Drawer Construction
The doors and drawer fronts are what you see most. They greatly impact the look.
- Door Styles: Common styles include Shaker (simple, recessed panel), Raised Panel (more formal), and Slab (flat and modern).
- Drawer Boxes: Look for features like soft-close mechanisms. Solid wood drawer boxes (like maple or birch) with dovetail joints are the mark of high quality. Cheaper drawers use staples or thin side panels.
Cabinet Finishes
The finish protects the wood or composite material.
- Laminate/Thermofoil: A plastic coating fused to the cabinet core. It is durable and easy to clean, common on budget RTA kitchen cabinets.
- Paint: Applied over wood or MDF. High-quality painted cabinets use durable, catalyzed conversion varnish.
- Stain/Varnish: Allows the natural wood grain to show through. This finish is popular for traditional or rustic looks often found at kitchen cabinet showrooms.
The Role of Kitchen Cabinet Installers
Buying the cabinets is only half the battle. Proper installation is crucial for how they look and function over time. If you buy from a specialized provider, they often recommend trusted kitchen cabinet installers.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
| Factor | DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (Only your time) | Significant labor cost ($$$) |
| Time | Very Slow, requires learning | Fast and efficient |
| Skill Required | Moderate to High (Leveling is key) | Expertise in plumbing/electrical tie-ins |
| Warranty | Often voids manufacturer warranty | Installation work is usually warrantied |
If you buy stock kitchen cabinets, you might feel comfortable installing them yourself. If you purchase semi-custom kitchen cabinets or full custom builds, professional help is highly recommended. Bad installation can ruin the look of the most expensive cabinets. Always ask your kitchen cabinet suppliers if they offer installation services or referrals.
Budgeting for Your Kitchen Cabinet Purchase
Cost varies dramatically based on where you shop and the style you choose. Setting a realistic budget is essential before visiting any kitchen cabinet showrooms.
Factors Influencing Cabinet Price
- Material: Plywood beats MDF; solid wood beats veneer.
- Construction: Custom costs more than semi-custom kitchen cabinets.
- Finish: Specialty finishes or glazes add cost.
- Hardware: Soft-close hinges and premium drawer slides add up.
- Source: Local custom shops charge more for labor than buying RTA kitchen cabinets online.
Finding Discount Kitchen Cabinets
If your budget is tight, focus your search:
- Look for Sales: Many big box stores run major sales around holidays.
- Consider Kitchen Cabinet Liquidation: These sales happen when suppliers or contractors cancel large orders. You might find high-end cabinets for cheap, but you must buy what is available immediately.
- Choose Stock Sizes: Sticking to in-stock kitchen cabinets avoids the premium charged for modifications.
- Simplify Doors: Flat slab doors or simple Shaker styles are less expensive than heavily detailed raised panel doors.
When comparing quotes from various kitchen cabinet suppliers, ensure you are comparing apples to apples. A cheap quote for particleboard cabinets is not a deal compared to a slightly higher quote for durable plywood boxes.
Navigating the Design and Ordering Process
Whether you visit a showroom or order online, the design process requires attention. Good kitchen cabinet suppliers guide you through this.
Measuring Accurately
This is the most crucial step. A mistake in measuring can lead to long delays and costly reorders.
- Measure wall length, ceiling height, and depth from the wall to the window/door frames.
- Note the placement of plumbing stacks, vents, and electrical outlets.
- If you are not confident, hire a professional contractor or designer to verify measurements before placing the final order for custom kitchen cabinets near me.
Design Layout Considerations
Think about workflow. The main work zones are the sink, refrigerator, and stove (the “kitchen triangle”).
- Base Cabinets: These hold drawers and shelves near the floor. Ensure you have enough deep drawers for pots and pans, which are often more efficient than lower shelves.
- Wall Cabinets: These go above the counter. Standard height is 30 to 36 inches. If you have high ceilings, aim for 42-inch cabinets, perhaps topped with decorative molding.
- Pantry Storage: Tall pantry cabinets are extremely useful for food and small appliance storage.
Reviewing Samples and Mock-ups
Never order a full kitchen based only on a small chip sample.
- Visit kitchen cabinet showrooms to see full-sized door samples.
- Check the movement and feel of the drawers and doors. Are the hinges sturdy? Do the drawers glide smoothly?
- If ordering online, pay extra for a sample box to verify the color under your kitchen’s actual lighting.
Specialized Kitchen Cabinet Suppliers and Services
Some businesses focus on specific needs, which can save you time and money if they match your goals.
For Speed: In-Stock Cabinets
If your kitchen renovation is urgent, focus on finding in-stock kitchen cabinets. These are stocked by large distributors or big-box stores, ready for immediate purchase and installation by your kitchen cabinet installers. While selection is limited, you can often get a basic, functional kitchen up and running quickly.
For DIY Enthusiasts: RTA Kitchen Cabinets
If you enjoy assembly and want maximum savings, RTA kitchen cabinets are perfect. Many specialized online vendors focus purely on this market. They often use high-quality materials, making the quality far better than older, cheap RTA kits. Just budget extra time for the assembly process.
For Unique Needs: Custom Work
When standard sizes just don’t work—perhaps due to an old house layout or a very specific appliance size—you need custom builders. These kitchen cabinet suppliers work with you step-by-step. They transform the search for “Where can I get kitchen cabinets?” into a personalized creation process.
Maintaining Your New Cabinets
Once the kitchen cabinet installers have finished, you need to care for your investment. Maintenance depends heavily on the finish you selected.
Care Tips for Different Finishes
- Painted/Lacquered: Wipe spills immediately. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Avoid harsh abrasives or ammonia cleaners, as they can dull the finish over time.
- Wood/Stained: Dust regularly. Use wood polish sparingly, maybe once or twice a year, to keep the wood moisturized. Avoid letting excessive moisture sit near the seams.
- Laminate/Thermofoil: These are the easiest to clean. A simple wipe with a damp cloth usually suffices. Be careful near edges, as water infiltration can cause the laminate to peel away from the substrate.
Regular, gentle cleaning preserves the look and functionality of your new cabinets for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much do kitchen cabinets typically cost?
The cost varies widely. Basic stock cabinets can start around \$100–\$200 per linear foot. Semi-custom kitchen cabinets usually range from \$250–\$600 per linear foot. Full custom kitchen cabinets near me can easily exceed \$800 to over \$1,200 per linear foot, depending on materials and complexity. Installation adds significant cost on top of the cabinet price.
Should I buy cabinets before hiring an installer?
It is generally better to secure your kitchen cabinet installers early in the process. They can provide insight into delivery times and installation requirements. However, you must have finalized measurements before placing the order, whether you buy in-stock kitchen cabinets or custom units.
What is the difference between a kitchen cabinet supplier and a cabinet maker?
A kitchen cabinet supplier usually sells mass-produced or pre-designed lines (stock or semi-custom). A cabinet maker builds cabinets from raw materials, usually offering full customization. Sometimes, a large kitchen cabinet showroom acts as both a supplier for stock lines and a dealer for custom builders.
Are RTA cabinets good quality?
Many modern RTA kitchen cabinets are quite good, often using plywood boxes and European hardware. The quality is generally comparable to entry-level semi-custom kitchen cabinets. The main drawback is the labor involved in assembly.
Where is the best place to find kitchen cabinet liquidation sales?
Look at local large home renovation stores, or search online specifically for kitchen cabinet liquidation or overstock sellers. These deals are often localized, so a specific search like “kitchen cabinet liquidation near me” is best.
How long does it take to get semi-custom cabinets?
For semi-custom kitchen cabinets, the timeline usually runs from 4 to 8 weeks after the final design is approved and the order is placed with the kitchen cabinet suppliers. Custom work takes longer, often 8 to 14 weeks or more.