We often say that kitchen cabinets are visually prominent and a significant investment, so choose carefully. As a kitchen remodeling guide, this article shows homeowners, DIY remodelers, and anyone comparing cost-effective cabinet options how the planning process can start with an honest look at pain points, a practical wish list, and the cabinet choices that will shape both the look and functionality of the room. You can use kitchen cabinets to dictate the look and layout of the kitchen, and by extension, how well it works day to day.
That is why this guide focuses on the cabinet decisions that have the biggest impact without forcing you to overspend, including key cabinet terms, cabinet types, budget considerations, materials such as MDF, ready-to-assemble options, and where to source quality cabinets. This depends on the choices you make, and this guide will show you how kitchen remodeling can start and end with your choice of kitchen cabinets.
Some basic terms
Before we get on with the main stuff, let’s clear up some cabinet terms you will be encountering.
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MDF – Medium density fiberboard, popularly used as an affordable and durable alternative to solid wood in many types of furniture, including kitchen cabinets
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RTA – Ready to assemble cabinets shipped in flat boxes complete with all panels and hardware
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Base cabinets – Cabinets that go on the floor, and largely dictates the layout of the kitchen
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Wall cabinets – Cabinets that go on the walls, often in tandem with base cabinets, but typically fewer in number
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Framed cabinet – Cabinet box front edges are visible around the door, seeming to frame it
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Frameless cabinet – Cabinet box front edges are not visible when the door is closed; the appearance of a set of frameless cabinets (or drawers for that matter) is an unbroken chain of doors (or drawers)
Comparing kitchen cabinets and standards
Companies put these packages together for your convenience. You do not have to keep to these packages if you are not happy with the inclusions. Usually You can modify them or simply choose the cabinets you want.
You will often see or hear cabinetmakers expressing package prices by kitchen size, typically 10×10. This is for cabinets only, meaning that it includes the number of cabinets that will typically fit into a 10 x 10 feet kitchen. Do not confuse it by the 10 x 10 package offered by remodeling companies, which includes not only the cabinets, but also other essentials such as the floor, walls, countertops, and appliances.
Making the right choices for your kitchen remodel
Budget is always a major consideration when doing anything remodeling, especially when it involves replacing your kitchen cabinets. The cost for new cabinets has a wide range, depending on your choices, so start with a realistic budget. Durable, low-maintenance materials are usually the best choice for high-traffic kitchens. In some instances, it could cost as much as a small car.
To keep you in the black, you can look at cost-effective options available to you. One of these is choosing cabinets made from MDF rather than solid wood. Modern MDF are often more durable than solid wood as it is largely immune from expanding and contracting from changes in the weather. You can save money with MDF, and you can always choose solid wood just for the doors if you really want that authentic grain. You will often see or hear cabinetmakers use 10×10 pricing as a ballpark estimates, but your kitchen layout, labor costs, and the way you select materials will affect the final number.
You can also choose less expensive models from top cabinet brands. Inset cabinets, for example, typically cost more than overlay cabinets. Quartz countertops are low-maintenance and durable, while granite countertops offer a more luxurious look but require more upkeep. Flooring choices such as luxury vinyl plank can mimic hardwood while adding durability. Other budget-focused options include style, finishes, hardware, and extra features. Prioritizing style over function can hurt usability, and trendy choices can date quickly. Stock lines cost less, while semi custom options offer more flexibility, and custom cabinets can add storage where standard sizes fall short, since neglecting adequate storage is a common kitchen remodel mistake. Doing the installation yourself can also help lower costs if you have the skills to do it and want to avoid costly mistakes.
If your budget is truly tight, you might want to consider keeping your old cabinets and refinish or reface them instead. Cabinet refacing is typically changing the surface of the cabinet doors using veneers and laminate materials, many of which are recycled and environment-friendly. You have quite a few great designs available at a small cost, and can make your cabinets look like new. Even better, you can reface cabinets yourself if you feel like taking on the project. In some instances, refinishing the cabinets with a fresh coat of paint or varnish can make all the difference, while full-package quotes from remodeling companies reflect broader remodeling costs, not just cabinets.
Going RTA with a kitchen designer
Many people are choosing RTA cabinets purchased from reliable cabinet suppliers as a convenient and cost-effective way to replace kitchen cabinets. A realistic budget should cover cabinets and overall labor costs, since the average kitchen remodel costs $26,934 and often falls between $14,600 and $41,485. A typical remodel takes 6–12 weeks, and the planning stage often takes 3–6 months before construction begins.
To save money and avoid costly mistakes, set aside a 10% to 20% contingency because homeowners often underestimate kitchen remodel costs by 10-20%. Careful planning and clear communication can reduce unnecessary stress during the remodeling process.
Most of these RTA cabinets come with instructions, so even inexperienced DIYers can get the job done. Assembly does not require any actual carpentry. Once assembled, you can choose to have a pro install them (especially the wall cabinets) or do it yourself as well. In a typical kitchen renovation, this kind of flexibility can help keep the project moving. The renovation process usually starts with the design phase, where the initial design is developed before plans are finalized. Building permits are typically needed for structural changes and plumbing and electrical work, with demolition first, then rough work, then install drywall and flooring. Cabinet installation comes next, followed by light fixtures and plumbing fixtures.
The great thing about RTA cabinets is that it is available on demand in a large variety of colors and styles, and they are much more affordable than custom or stock cabinets. Homeowners usually have a few options, with semi-custom offering more flexibility at a higher price and custom giving the most freedom at the highest cost. One reason for this is they come disassembled in flat packages, so the manufacturer saves money on labor and shipping, some of which they pass on to the end user (you). Accurate measurements and the available space should guide whether the layout uses galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, or open concept designs. A galley kitchen can maximize space with two parallel walls, an L-shaped kitchen offers flexibility in flow, and U-shaped kitchens provide ample counter and storage space. To avoid delays, select materials early so orders and deliveries stay on track with the project timeline.
You can also order them online from reliable cabinet suppliers, although you do have to pay for delivery. To keep delivery fees low, order from a local company that services your area. The kitchen layout should also support the work triangle so the remodel improves function, not just appearance. Good traffic flow helps prevent bottlenecks between prep, cooking, and cleanup zones. A kitchen island works best when there is enough room around it and can hold larger features like cooktops or sinks, while peninsulas are better for smaller kitchens that need extra counter space because oversized islands can make the room feel cramped. More countertop space is often one of the most practical upgrades in a new kitchen for daily life. Strong range hoods help control grease and cooking odors, and ignoring ventilation needs can hurt indoor air quality. Lighting should combine ambient, task, and decorative light fixtures.
Working with kitchen designers or interior designers during the design process can help refine plans before materials are ordered. For larger projects, a general contractor or remodeling partner can coordinate schedules, trades, and budgets. When hiring help, look for qualified professionals by checking past work, verifying licenses and insurance, requesting references and follow-ups with recent clients, and getting at least three bids while avoiding large upfront payments. Permits and plans should comply with local building codes, especially when removing walls or dealing with load bearing walls.
Conclusion
The choices you make for your kitchen cabinets eventually dictate your kitchen design. Fortunately, cost-effective options are available for good quality cabinets, so your kitchen does not have to look budget-constrained even if you were. If you are in the market for the best deals in quality cabinets, Cabinets City is your best bet in Chicago, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Des Plaines, Hoffman Estate, Elk Grove Village, and surrounding areas. Visit our showroom in Mt. Prospect, Illinois to see what we have to offer.
We carry some of the best brands in the country, from RTA to freestanding cabinets, and at the best prices compared to Cabinets To Go and Advance Cabinets. These include Schrock, Fabuwood, J and K, Forevermark, and Wolf Cabinets, each of which come with manufacturer warranties. We always deliver on time, so you will not have to worry about keeping your schedule to stay in budget.
We can advise you on the best cabinets for your kitchen remodel. Give us a call for a free consultation and quote!