When renovating a kitchen, bathroom, or any other area of your home, cabinets play a pivotal role in terms of both aesthetics and functionality. However, the cost of cabinets can quickly add up, especially when you’re working on a large project or an extensive remodel. The good news is that there are many ways to get quality cabinets at an affordable price. This article will explore various strategies and tips on how to get cheap cabinets without compromising on style or durability.
1. Understand Your Needs and Budget
Before diving into the search for cheap cabinets, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your needs and the budget you can allocate for this part of your renovation. Assess the space where you plan to install the cabinets, measure the available area accurately, and decide on the type of cabinets you need. Are you looking for full cabinetry or just a few pieces for storage? Determining the style (traditional, modern, rustic, etc.) and material preferences will also influence your choices.
Setting a realistic budget helps in narrowing down your options and focusing on the best value cabinets without overspending. This way, you can explore different avenues of savings while still achieving your desired look.
2. Look for Discount Cabinets
Discounted cabinets are one of the best ways to get cheap cabinets without sacrificing quality. Many retailers offer discounts on overstocked or discontinued products, and you can score these at a fraction of the cost. Discounted cabinets may also be available in showrooms when the store is making room for new inventory.
Some common places to find discounted cabinets include:
- Home Improvement Stores: Big-box stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards often offer sales, clearance items, or closeout deals.
- Local Cabinet Showrooms: Many local suppliers have discounted items that they want to sell quickly, and you might get a great deal by visiting these stores in person.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Wayfair, Overstock, and Amazon sometimes offer significant discounts on cabinets, especially during sales events like Black Friday or seasonal promotions.
3. Consider Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Cabinets
Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets are a great option when you’re looking for cheap cabinets. These cabinets come flat-packed, and you can assemble them yourself, which cuts down on labor costs and makes them more affordable. Not only are RTA cabinets typically more cost-effective, but they also offer plenty of style options, and many of them are of good quality.
Some benefits of RTA cabinets include:
- Lower Labor Costs: Since you assemble the cabinets yourself, you don’t have to pay for professional installation.
- Variety of Designs: RTA cabinets come in a variety of styles, materials, and finishes, which can help you achieve the look you want without spending extra.
- Easy Online Shopping: Many online retailers specialize in RTA cabinets, allowing you to easily compare prices and features from the comfort of your home.
When shopping for RTA cabinets, ensure that the materials used are durable and long-lasting to avoid replacing them prematurely.
4. Opt for Stock Cabinets Instead of Custom Cabinets
While custom cabinets can offer a personalized touch, they also come with a hefty price tag. If you’re on a budget, opting for stock cabinets is a great way to save money. Stock cabinets are pre-manufactured and come in standard sizes, which reduces labor and manufacturing costs.
Some benefits of stock cabinets include:
- Lower Prices: Stock cabinets are mass-produced, meaning they are much more affordable than custom-built ones.
- Quick Availability: These cabinets are readily available and can be purchased immediately, which also helps to avoid delays in your project.
- Variety of Styles: Stock cabinets come in many different styles, sizes, and finishes, which gives you a broad range of choices.
Though stock cabinets may not be as unique as custom options, they can still look beautiful and meet all of your storage needs without breaking the bank.
5. Check for Used or Second-Hand Cabinets
If you’re looking for the absolute lowest price on cabinets, second-hand or used cabinets can be an excellent option. Many homeowners sell their cabinets when renovating, and you can often find these cabinets at local thrift stores, online marketplaces, or through word of mouth. Buying used cabinets can significantly cut down on costs, and with a little creativity, you can give them a fresh look.
Some places to check for used cabinets include:
- Facebook Marketplace: A great platform for finding second-hand cabinets from people in your local area.
- Craigslist: You can find used cabinets being sold by homeowners or renovation companies in your area.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Habitat for Humanity operates ReStores where you can buy used cabinets and other home materials at discounted prices.
- Estate Sales and Auctions: Sometimes homeowners sell entire kitchen sets or cabinets during estate sales.
While used cabinets might show some wear and tear, a little sanding, repainting, or refinishing can breathe new life into them. Be sure to inspect used cabinets for any damage, warping, or missing components before committing.
6. Buy Cabinet Components Separately
Another way to save on cabinets is to purchase the individual components (like cabinet doors, drawer boxes, and hardware) separately and then assemble the cabinets yourself. This can be particularly helpful when you only need a few cabinets and don’t want to pay for a complete pre-assembled set.
By purchasing separate components, you can often find better deals, and it also allows you to choose high-quality pieces where it matters most (like drawers and hinges) while still saving on less visible parts. Many manufacturers and suppliers offer modular cabinet parts that can be customized to suit your needs.
7. DIY Cabinet Refacing
If you already have cabinets in good condition but are looking to refresh their appearance, cabinet refacing can be a cost-effective solution. This process involves replacing only the cabinet doors and drawer fronts, and sometimes the hardware, rather than tearing out the entire structure.
Cabinet refacing is typically much less expensive than replacing cabinets altogether and can give your kitchen or bathroom an entirely new look. If you’re handy with tools, you can even complete the refacing project yourself, further reducing costs. You can find affordable door and drawer replacement options at home improvement stores or specialty suppliers.
8. Take Advantage of Sales and Promotions
If you’re flexible on the timing of your purchase, you can save significantly on cabinets by taking advantage of sales, promotions, and seasonal discounts. Retailers often offer great deals on kitchen and bathroom cabinets during major holidays, such as Labor Day, Memorial Day, or Black Friday.
Some additional tips for finding sales include:
- Sign up for Newsletters: Many home improvement retailers and online stores send out newsletters with information on sales and discounts. Signing up can help you stay informed about upcoming promotions.
- Ask for Price Matching: Some retailers will match the price of a competitor if you find the same cabinet at a lower price elsewhere. This can be a great way to get a better deal on your purchase.
- Consider Off-Season Purchases: Shopping during off-peak times, such as winter months, may yield better discounts when demand is lower.
9. Plan for Shipping and Delivery Costs
When purchasing cabinets, especially from online retailers, don’t forget to factor in shipping and delivery costs. Sometimes, the price of delivery can significantly increase the overall cost of the cabinets. Look for promotions that offer free or discounted shipping to offset these expenses. Alternatively, if you’re purchasing from a local store, you may be able to transport the cabinets yourself or rent a truck to save on delivery costs.
10. Hire a Professional to Install the Cabinets Efficiently
While installing cabinets yourself is a great way to save on labor costs, sometimes it’s better to hire a professional to ensure the installation is done correctly and efficiently. However, you can still save money by choosing an installer who offers affordable rates or seeking out local handymen who specialize in cabinet installation.
Ensure that you get multiple quotes and check reviews to find a reliable and cost-effective installer. A professional installation can save you time, reduce errors, and prevent costly mistakes down the road.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to get cheap cabinets without sacrificing quality or style. By exploring discount options, considering RTA or stock cabinets, purchasing second-hand, and looking for sales or promotions, you can significantly reduce the costs of your cabinet purchase. Additionally, don’t forget to factor in DIY options like cabinet refacing or assembling components yourself, which can also offer great savings. With careful planning and smart shopping, you can achieve the kitchen or home of your dreams while sticking to your budget.
