Cost To Make Kitchen Cabinets Taller

The Cost of Making Kitchen Cabinets Taller

Kitchen cabinets are a significant investment in any home renovation project. They serve as a functional storage solution, adding both style and value to your kitchen. While standard cabinet heights are common, many homeowners are opting for taller cabinets to maximize storage space and create a more modern aesthetic. However, making kitchen cabinets taller comes with its own set of costs, which can vary significantly based on several factors.

Factors Affecting the Cost

The cost of making kitchen cabinets taller depends on several factors. These include the size and number of cabinets being raised, the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the labor involved.

Cabinet Size and Number: The more cabinets you want to raise, the higher the cost will be. Taller cabinets require more materials and labor, so the cost will scale up with the number of cabinets being modified.

Materials: The materials used in construction will impact the cost. Higher-end materials like solid wood, custom finishes, or special hardware will increase the price compared to standard materials like laminated plywood or simple hardware.

Design Complexity: Simple cabinet designs with minimal adjustments are typically less expensive than those with more intricate features like crown molding, decorative accents, or custom-built storage solutions.

Labor Costs: The cost of labor is another significant factor. Hiring a professional contractor for the job will likely be more expensive than doing it yourself. However, if you lack experience in carpentry and cabinet making, hiring a professional is often advisable to ensure a well-built and functional result.

Cost Breakdown: DIY vs. Professional Installation

The cost of making kitchen cabinets taller can be significantly different depending on whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional.

DIY Option

If you have carpentry skills and experience, DIY is a cost-effective option. However, it requires time, tools, and careful planning. The cost will mainly include the price of materials like plywood, hardware, and any necessary tools or equipment that you do not already own.

For DIY projects, you can find basic cabinet kits that are designed for easy assembly. However, these kits might have limitations in terms of customizability and might not be suitable for all kitchen styles or layouts.

Professional Installation

Hiring a professional contractor for the job adds labor costs to the equation. The price will vary depending on the contractor's experience, location, and the complexity of the project. The overall cost of professional installation can sometimes be significantly higher than DIY, but it offers the benefits of specialized expertise, quality assurance, and a more efficient timeline.

Cost Comparison: Raising Cabinets vs. New Cabinets

While raising existing cabinets might seem like a cost-effective solution, it's essential to compare it with the cost of purchasing entirely new cabinets.

Raising Existing Cabinets: This is the more budget-friendly option, especially if you are happy with the existing cabinet design and material. However, raising cabinets involves modifications to the existing structure, which could present challenges depending on the cabinet's age and construction.

New Cabinets: New cabinets offer the advantage of choosing a design that perfectly suits your needs and style. However, they represent a significant investment, particularly if you opt for custom-built cabinets with high-quality materials and finishes.

Ultimately, the best option for your kitchen depends on your budget, desired aesthetic, and the overall scope of your renovation project.