How Much Does it Cost to Repair Cabinets?
Cost to Repair Cabinets
The national average cabinet repair cost is $316, with most projects ranging between $134 and $501. Refinishing or repainting can add between $1,000 and $4,100 to your final cost.
Repair options like refacing or repainting can change the look of your cabinets without a total replacement. The type of repair needed will determine your final price, but here are a few factors that can influence the cost.
Determining the Cost to Repair Cabinets
The average cabinet repair job is around $300. Your final cost will vary based on the type of repair required. If there is damage to the surface of your cabinets, then you may need to have them refinished or repainted. For structural concerns, a full replacement is often the best way to go.
A cabinet repair contractor near you can provide the most accurate estimate for different types of damage. This includes:
Loose hinges
Broken hardware
Scrapes and scratches
Peeling paint
General wear and tear
Structural issues
Repainting
The average cost of painting cabinets is around $1,000. Most projects cost between $3 and $10 per square foot. Professional labor will generally cost between $30 and $60 per linear foot. Your final cost will depend on the number of cabinets and the professional labor required.
For painted cabinets with minor damage, you might only need to spend between $20 and $60 on a matching gallon of paint. This will allow you to do small touch-ups where needed. If you decide to paint your cabinets yourself, you’ll likely spend between $200 and $600 on supplies. This includes:
Paint
Primer
Sandpaper
Brushes
Rollers
Drop cloths
Tape
If there are multiple damaged areas, repainting the whole cabinet will ensure a seamless color match. A full repainting job often requires removal of the old paint, as well as sanding and priming before paint application. For cabinets with structural damage, consider a complete replacement instead.
Refinishing
The cost to refinish cabinets generally ranges between $1,600 and $4,100 depending on the project. You can expect to pay between $4 and $10 per square foot, including labor and materials. If you’re hiring a professional, most will charge an average of $55 per hour.
Refinishing is the best route to go if the finish is worn or scratched. This costs far less than a replacement while still offering a renewed color and finish.
A refinishing job will typically cost more than repainting. This is because it requires removal of the old finish and multiple coats of the new finish, along with sanding in between the layers. Again, this will not address structural issues, so you may need a replacement if this is a concern.
Refacing
The cost to reface cabinets typically ranges between $1,600 and $3,900. Refacing is a process where an overlay of thin wood or laminate covers the front. This provides a new color, wood grain or profile without having to buy all-new cabinets. If any surface is severely damaged, refacing helps renew it without a total replacement.
Hardware Options
The cost of new cabinet hardware varies considerably from $3 to $200 per knob. Price depends on material, artistry and market demand.
Most resurfacing or repainting jobs include selecting hardware to complete your new look. For frugal DIYers, a quick hardware change can enhance the look of kitchen cabinets without much work at all. There are many options out there, so be sure to keep a budget in mind as you shop.
Cost to Replace the Bottom of a Kitchen Cabinet
You can replace the bottom of a kitchen cabinet at an average cost of between $150 and $200. This usually stems from water damage below the kitchen sink. Unlike most other structural defects, this problem is usually fixable without replacing the entire cabinet.
FAQ
How much does it cost to replace cabinets?
The cost to install new cabinets is around $5,200 on average, with most projects costing between $1,800 and $8,700. Prices for semi-custom and fully custom installations are significantly higher, costing between $13,000 and $30,000 or more.
If you only want to update the look of your cabinets, you might consider different ways to renew your kitchen cabinets. A simple refacing or refinishing job offers a new style at a fraction of the cost. For best results, have a contractor help you achieve your desired look.
Can you repair cabinets yourself?
It’s possible to take on minor repairs to your cabinets yourself. However, if you make a mistake, you run the risk of making the issue worse or even ruining the unit. For example, an improper reattachment can send the whole cabinet crashing down, likely causing irreparable damage. Contact a cabinet contractor to ensure high-quality quality repairs.
