Cabinet installers near you

Hiring a professional is the best way to install cabinets, as they have the right tools and expertise for the job. A pro can help ensure your cabinets are perfectly level, securely mounted, and correctly aligned, which prevents issues down the road. While DIY is an option, it’s a demanding project that requires precision to get right and know-how to prevent damage to your home.

Follow these steps to hire a professional for cabinet installation with confidence:

• Verify their license and insurance:Depending on the project's scope, a pro may need a general contractor or specific carpentry license. It’s also wise to confirm they have general liability insurance to protect your home. Keep in mind that requirements vary by region.

• Get several estimates:A detailed estimate should break down the costs for labor, the cabinets and hardware, and the removal of old cabinetry. It should also include a project timeline and any potential costs for plumbing or electrical adjustments.

• Read their reviews:Look for comments that mention professionalism, punctuality, and attention to detail — like ensuring doors are level and gaps are even. Red flags can include complaints about messes, project delays, or misaligned cabinets.

• Look at their portfolios:Check their past work for projects similar to yours. Pay close attention to the details: are the lines clean, are the joints seamless, and is the hardware installed neatly? The cabinets should look perfectly aligned and flush.

• Find out if they have warranties:Ask if the installer offers a warranty or guarantee on their workmanship. The cabinet manufacturer will typically provide a separate warranty on the products themselves, so be sure you understand what’s covered by each.

• Ask important questions:Before hiring, ask questions like: “How will you protect my floors and countertops during the installation?” and “What is your process for handling unexpected issues, like uneven walls?”

There are many factors that might impact the cost of cabinet projects, including:

• Cabinet type: Stock cabinets are generally the most budget-friendly option. Semi-custom and fully custom cabinets will cost more because they’re made to your exact specifications.

• Materials: The type of wood or material you choose has a major impact. For example, solid cherry will be more expensive than MDF or particleboard.

• Project size: The cost will naturally increase with the number of cabinets you’re installing. A large kitchen with an island will cost more than a small galley kitchen.

• Demolition and prep work: If your installer needs to tear out and dispose of your old cabinets or make repairs to the walls, this will add to the labor costs.

• Finishes and hardware: Custom paint or stain, plus the knobs, pulls, and hinges you select, can also affect the total price of the project.

Here are some tips to help you save money on cabinet installation services:

• Do some prep work. You can often save on labor costs by handling tasks like clearing the room, removing old cabinets, and cleaning the walls before your pro arrives.

• Choose stock or semi-custom cabinets. Fully custom cabinets are the most expensive option, so choosing ready-made stock or semi-custom styles can significantly lower your material costs.

• Keep the design simple. Ornate details, complex layouts, and premium hardware can increase the price. A clean, straightforward design is typically more budget-friendly.

• Get multiple quotes. Comparing bids from at least three different installers can help you find the best price and ensure you’re getting a fair rate for your project.

• Schedule during the off-season. Pros may be less busy during certain times of the year, like late fall or winter. Booking your project during a slower period can sometimes lead to more competitive pricing.

It might take one to five days for a professional to complete cabinet installation. Factors that impact how long it takes include:

• The size of your kitchen and the total number of cabinets being installed.

• Custom or semi-custom cabinets may require more time for precise fitting than standard stock cabinets.

• Removing old cabinetry and preparing the space for the new ones will add to the project timeline.

• If your walls or floors are uneven, your pro may need extra time to make sure everything is level.

• Adding features like crown molding, hardware, or under-cabinet lighting will also increase the installation time.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

Before your pro arrives to install cabinets, take these steps to help ensure a safe and efficient appointment:

Step 1: Clear the work area. You’ll need to remove all old cabinets, appliances, furniture, and personal items from the room to give your pro plenty of space to work.

Step 2: Prep the walls and floor. Ensure the walls are clean, patched, and painted, and that any necessary work on your flooring is complete before installation begins.

Step 3: Disconnect utilities. If your project involves plumbing or electrical work, make sure those utilities are safely disconnected in the work area before your pro arrives.

Step 4: Inspect your new cabinets. Unbox and check all cabinet pieces for damage that may have occurred during shipping so you can address any issues with the manufacturer ahead of time.

Step 5: Plan for access. Make sure there’s a clear and unobstructed path from the entry of your home to the installation area for moving large cabinets and tools.