What is the average life of kitchen cabinets?

Author: Sonya McGlynn  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Your average cabinet, no matter where it is in the house, should last 20 years or so. Kitchen cabinets last about 20 years too. This is because their construction and materials have gotten better. Painted cabinets, even outside of kitchens, last about a year before the paint starts peeling.

How often should you replace kitchen cabinets?

Most cabinet experts recommend replacing your kitchen cabinets when: The cabinet boxes are damaged. Your cabinets smell bad. Your cabinets are more than 15 years old.

How long should kitchen cabinets last?

On average, a kitchen cabinet can last around 50 years! While that seems like a long time, there are many reasons why a cabinet may not make it as long as 50 years. Although, since cabinets can last so long it's important to pick cabinets that you'll like for years to come.

How do I know if my cabinets need replacing?

Contents hide
  1. 1.1 1. Lack of Storage Space in the Kitchen.
  2. 1.2 2. Excessive Wear and Tear.
  3. 1.3 3. Kitchen Cabinet Doors Don't Function Correctly.
  4. 1.4 4. Your Kitchen Smells Funny.
  5. 1.5 5. The Cabinets Are Old Fashioned.
  6. 1.6 6. Cluttered Countertops.
  7. 1.7 7. Water Damage.
  8. 1.8 8. Outdated Kitchen Design.

What is the average cost to replace kitchen cabinets?

Depending on your kitchen's size and the type of materials and design you've chosen, the average cost to install your kitchen cabinets can cost the following: Basic to mid-grad cabinets: $3,200-$8,500. High-end custom cabinets: $12,500-$18,100.

WE ALMOST LOST HER!

What is a good budget for kitchen cabinets?

Due to the wide-ranging differences in materials and quality, new kitchen cabinets typically cost anywhere from $2,500 to $24,000. However, most new cabinet prices average between $5,500 and $13,000. This wide price range can be divided into three cabinet categories: stock, semi-custom, and custom.

Is it cheaper to reface cabinets or replace them?

Yes, cabinet refacing is worth it if you want to improve the look of your kitchen without spending too much money. Refacing can save you up to 25% – 50% of the cost of replacing cabinets and can be done in a much shorter time frame than fully replacing all cabinets.

Can cabinets last 50 years?

In general, high-quality cabinets can last up to 50 years. This sounds like an incredibly long period of time, but cabinets are in fact one of the longest lasting components of your entire kitchen.

Are expensive cabinets worth it?

The premium for durability and longevity

High-end materials and construction methods might come with a steeper initial cost, but they pay off in the long run. Cheaper alternatives might be tempting, but they often show wear and tear much sooner.

Can you get new kitchen cabinets without replacing countertops?

Benefits of Refacing Without Removing Countertops

Cost-Effective: Refacing your cabinets without removing the countertops is a more affordable alternative to full-scale kitchen renovations. You will save on labor and material costs, as there's no need to purchase new countertops or pay for their installation.

What type of cabinets last the longest?

Solid wood cabinets, particularly oak, are the most durable kitchen cabinet material due to their strength, resistance to wear and tear, and ability to withstand moisture without warping. Plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) are also durable, economical options.

What is the best time of year to buy cabinets?

During the holiday season, kitchens seem to be what everyone needs. It's also the best time of the year to purchase kitchen cabinets. There are many stores that offer kitchen cabinets during this time of the year for considerably lower prices.

How often should countertops be replaced?

Your Countertops Look Outdated

While you'll incur an additional expense you may not have budgeted for, it will save you time and can even make you money in the long run. In general, kitchen countertops should be replaced every 10-15 years, which is roughly the lifecycle of interior trends.

What is the lifespan of wood cabinets?

High-quality and properly-maintained cabinets will last for an average of 50 years. It's best when the cabinets such as kitchen and bathroom cabinets and vanities are made with durability in mind.

What is the current trend in kitchen cabinets?

Creams, warm neutrals, and light taupes are the perfect backdrop for personal touches, blending seamlessly with other design elements. These colors emphasize stability and work well in spaces where comfort is key. The cabinet colors of 2025 aren't just about trends—they're about how your space makes you feel.

Is it better to repaint or replace kitchen cabinets?

While painting your cabinets is the easiest and most budget-friendly option, replacing your cabinets creates a more dramatic transformation and can last longer.

How much should I expect to pay for new cabinets?

The average cost of kitchen cabinets is $6,386, but it can range between $2,008 and $11,064, depending on kitchen size, cost of labor, and whether they're factory-made or a custom build. The average cost of kitchen cabinets is $6,386, with most homeowners spending between $2,008 and $11,064.

What color cabinets increase home value?

What Color Cabinets Have The Best Resale Value? Light neutrals are generally the best colors for resale because they appeal to the most people. But choosing shades of navy, deep green or even black can work depending on the house's style.

How can you tell if cabinets are high quality?

Top 10 Characteristics of High Quality Kitchen Cabinets
  1. All-plywood construction. ...
  2. Full-height back panels. ...
  3. Soft-close hinges. ...
  4. Undermount, soft-close drawer glides. ...
  5. Hardwood dovetail drawer boxes. ...
  6. Fully assembled in the factory. ...
  7. Face frames. ...
  8. Customizability and modifications.

What color cabinets never go out of style?

Kitchen Cabinet Colors That Never Go Out of Style
  • The Eternal Whites. White. Off-White. Creamy White.
  • Graceful Grays. Light Gray. Dark Gray.
  • Wood Tones.
  • Two-Tone Designs.
  • Timeless Elegance for Your Kitchen.

What is the average lifespan of a kitchen?

A well-built kitchen should last around 10-15 years, considering normal wear and tear. However, the actual lifespan depends on the quality of materials, craftsmanship, usage, and maintenance. With proper care and occasional updates, you can prolong your kitchen's life and keep it looking fresh for years to come.

Is painting old cabinets a good idea?

Painting kitchen cabinets can be a cost-effective and transformative approach to updating your kitchen's look without undertaking a full remodel. This method offers significant savings, a quick turnaround, and a range of aesthetic possibilities, making it an attractive option for many homeowners.

What is the downside of cabinet refacing?

Cabinet refacing is considered to be less durable than a full replacement, as it does not replace the entire structure of the cabinets. Over time, cabinet frames can become worn or damaged; if that happens, you may need to replace them anyway.

What is the least expensive way to replace kitchen cabinets?

Cabinet Style and Design

Ready-made "stock" cabinets are the most budget-friendly choice, while semi-custom cabinets offer a nice balance between cost and customization. Custom-designed cabinets, on the other hand, give your kitchen a luxurious feel but come at a higher price.

Does Lowes do cabinet refacing?

Kitchen Remodeling Made Easy and Affordable.

Lowe's cabinet refacing with National Refacing Systems uses your existing cabinets while transforming your kitchen with premium-quality cabinet doors, drawers, hardware, and accessories.

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