Average Cost For Repainting Kitchen Cabinets

Repainting kitchen cabinets is an excellent way to refresh the look of your kitchen without the expense of replacing them entirely. It can be accomplished by a homeowner with some DIY skills or by hiring a professional contractor. Regardless of who does the work, the project's cost can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the kitchen, the condition of the cabinets, the type of paint used, and whether any additional prep work is required. This article will discuss the average cost of repainting kitchen cabinets and the factors that contribute to price fluctuations.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Repainting Kitchen Cabinets

The cost of repainting kitchen cabinets can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on several factors. These include:

Size of the Kitchen: The number of cabinets in your kitchen directly impacts the amount of paint needed and the time required to complete the project. Larger kitchens with more cabinets will naturally cost more to repaint than smaller kitchens with fewer cabinets.
Condition of the Cabinets: Cabinets in good condition may only require a light sanding and cleaning before painting. However, cabinets with significant damage, such as chips, scratches, or peeling paint, will require more extensive preparation work, such as filling in imperfections, sanding, and priming, adding to the overall cost.
Type of Paint Used: High-quality paint typically costs more than lower-quality paint but also provides better coverage, durability, and longevity. You can opt for various finishes, such as semi-gloss, satin, or matte, each with a different price tag. The popularity of cabinet painting has led to the development of specialized cabinet paints designed for superior adhesion and a smooth, durable finish, which also tend to be more expensive.
Complexity of the Design: Cabinets with intricate designs, such as raised panels or ornate moldings, require more time and effort to paint, adding to the project's cost.
Labor Costs: Hiring a professional painter will cost more than doing the work yourself. Professional painters typically charge by the hour or by the square foot, and their rates can vary depending on their experience and location.

Average Cost Breakdown

While the cost of repainting kitchen cabinets can vary significantly, here is a general breakdown of average costs:

DIY Repainting: The cost of repainting cabinets yourself will primarily include the cost of paint, supplies, and any necessary tools. You can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for a basic DIY cabinet repaint project.
Professional Repainting: Hiring a professional to repaint your cabinets will typically cost between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Tips for Saving Money on Repainting Kitchen Cabinets

Here are some tips for saving money on repainting kitchen cabinets:

Prepare the cabinets yourself: If you're comfortable with basic DIY tasks, preparing the cabinets yourself can save you significant labor costs. This involves tasks such as removing cabinet doors and hardware, cleaning the cabinets, sanding, and priming.
Consider using a less expensive paint: While high-quality paint is desirable, you can often find affordable paint options that still provide good coverage and durability.
Choose a simple design: Avoid intricate designs that require more time and effort to paint.
Shop around for quotes: Obtain quotes from at least three different professional painters to compare prices and services.

Repainting kitchen cabinets can be a cost-effective way to refresh your kitchen and give it a new look. By understanding the factors that influence the cost and following the tips above, you can make informed decisions and stay within your budget.