When remodeling your kitchen in Albuquerque, the new cabinetry will likely be one of the most costly expenses.

Kitchen cabinets represent a significant part of a renovation, typically making up around 40% of the total budget. Two major factors influencing the cost of cabinets are their quality and construction.

Though cabinets are a long-term investment, how can you still save money when purchasing these essential fixtures?

Do Your Research

The first step to saving money on kitchen cabinets is to do your research and determine which features and construction elements are essential versus those you can live without.

For example, start by learning about the materials used to make cabinets. Particleboard is inexpensive but fragile, and does not hold up well to moisture, while more durable options like plywood may cost more upfront but last longer.

Medium-density fiberboard is often preferred because it strikes a balance between cost and performance. Compared to solid wood, it actually performs better. Medium-density fiberboard is very water-resistant and can easily withstand changes in humidity and temperature.

Though solid wood cabinets are beautiful, their high cost and sensitivity to environmental conditions make them impractical for some kitchens. For instance, fluctuations in temperature and moisture can ruin solid wood cabinets if not properly regulated.

Get Custom Doors and Pre-Made Boxes

Custom cabinet doors and inexpensive premade cabinet boxes offer a creative solution to get the high-end look of custom cabinets on a budget. By pairing custom doors with affordable cabinet boxes from IKEA or Home Depot, you can achieve the outward appearance of high-end custom cabinets for a fraction of the cost.

Premade cabinet doors can also be dressed up with unique hardware to feel more custom without the price tag. This flexible approach allows you to customize your cabinet look according to your style and budget.

Factory-made cabinets and less expensive pre-made options usually have built-in rails and are constructed from either particleboard with a veneer or medium-density fiberboard. When selecting cabinets, limit unnecessary extras like spice racks and pullouts, as too many custom additions or in-stock options with accessories can increase costs.

Get Unfinished Cabinets

If you choose unfinished cabinets, you will save money upfront, but you will still need to paint or stain them yourself later. Staining may be a DIY project, but painting likely requires hiring a professional. Calculate the cost of finishing to determine if the upfront savings are worth the extra work.

Use Open Shelving

If you want new cabinets but have a limited budget, consider open shelving instead of upper cabinets. This trendy look can save thousands of dollars yet still appears stylish and clean. Going without upper cabinets allows you to splurge on other kitchen upgrades while sticking to your budget.

Open shelving is not only more affordable but also keeps your kitchen feeling brighter and more spacious. This open design is especially effective in smaller, enclosed kitchens where too many upper cabinets can create a cramped ambiance.

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