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Kitchen cabinets are a top choice when it comes to kitchen renovation. RTA cabinets, or ready-to-assemble cabinets, have slowly but surely become homeowners’ go-to option for giving the kitchen a fresh look. These kitchen cabinets are easy to ship and cheap compared to custom cabinets options, which cost a fraction. They come in flat packaging, so it is recommended to hire the services of a professional to assemble them.
Budgeting wisely is necessary to avoid surprises. This holds good for both scenarios: planning a complete kitchen renovation or upgrading a few kitchen cabinets. Knowing more about what to expect in terms of the cost of RTA cabinets and the reasons for varying price helps when making purchases. Read further to know some factors that impact pricing and the typical cost ranges. This post also sheds light on some practical tips to get the best value for your kitchen.
What is the Average Cost of RTA Cabinets?
Ready-to-assemble cabinets, on average, cost between $100 and $200 per linear foot. The price depends on aspects like the material, finish, and style you pick. They’re a wallet-friendly way to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank. In fact, compared to semi-custom or custom cabinets, they are a solid alternative. A relatively compact 8×8-sized kitchen starts at a pricing range of $1,200–$2,500. A medium kitchen of 10×10 size costs between $1,500 and $4,000. Larger kitchens, particularly those with islands, can fall in the range of $3,000 and going up to $6,000.
Fully custom cabinetry typically starts at upwards of $10,000 and only goes further up. Given these numbers, it’s no wonder ready-to-assemble cabinets are such a popular choice. However, it is vital to consider the difference between style, material, labor, layout, and additional features. As they ship flat, RTA cabinets reduce the need for installation and woodworking, thus saving lots of money.
Factors That Affect RTA Cabinet Pricing
The price of ready-to-assemble cabinets depends on several factors. The number of kitchen cabinets and the extras opted for also matter. Choosing standard hinges or soft-close hinges can all change the budget. By understanding these factors, homeowners can make smarter choices while staying within budget. Here are some of the factors that have a direct impact on ready-to-assemble cabinet pricing:
Cabinet Material
Material is often the largest cost driver. Common options include particleboard or MDF kitchen cabinets, plywood, and solid wood. MDF is the most affordable, often under $100 per linear foot. Maple or oak are some solid wood options that can increase costs to nearly $200 per linear foot. Some materials are moisture-resistant, while others, like plywood, wear better. So finding a balance between spending more and durability is vital.
Door Style & Finish
The doors themselves affect the cost as much as the cabinet box. Flat-panel or shaker-style doors are more common in ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets. Wood veneers or painted finishes tend to be expensive. Conversely, laminate or thermofoil finishes usually tend to be more economical. Remember to consider the ease of maintenance and the look you want to achieve.
Size & Layout
Pricing hinges upon the number of kitchen cabinets and their height and depth specifications. If a kitchen has many corner kitchen cabinets or tall pantry units, it will cost more than an L-shaped kitchen layout. The total gets impacted by minor aspects and changes like adding some extra drawers.
Hardware & Accessories
Hardware such as handles, drawer pulls, and knobs might seem like tiny details, but they add up. Basic metal pulls cost just a few dollars each, while designer hardware costs $20–$50 a piece. Accessories like pull-out trash bins or lazy Susans increase functionality and price.
Customization Options
Ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets have limited customization. However, you can tweak them to match your kitchen and lifestyle. Some RTA cabinets allow basic customization. These typically include adjustable shelves, soft-close drawers, door styles, pull-out shelves, or built-in dividers. You can opt for cabinet finishes per your choice and add touches like glass inserts. These features can match your kitchen but can raise cabinet costs. The price gets driven higher with modifications made. Nonetheless, ready-to-assemble cabinets still remains far cheaper than fully custom cabinetry.
Cost Breakdown by Kitchen Size
Cabinet pricing often feels like a puzzle. The size of your kitchen is one of the biggest pieces. A small galley kitchen usually needs fewer kitchen cabinets, so the cost stays lower. In many cases, homeowners spend anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 for ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets in a compact layout. That’s still not a big purchase, but it’s lighter than custom cabinets work.
A standard L-shaped kitchen, which is medium-sized with several drawers and upper and base kitchen cabinets, will drive the cost up. Now, based on the materials and finish selected, this amounts to nearly $3,500 to $8,000. This range typically covers both budget options and mid-grade designs, with add-ons like easy-close or “soft-close” drawers.
In larger kitchens, these figures go further up. A U-shaped layout with an island might need double the cabinet count of a smaller kitchen. The expenditure starts around $8,000 and can reach $15,000 or more, depending on how premium the finish is. The cost comes down to the fancy features you add and the square footage. Want glass doors, pantry pull-outs, or custom cabinetry organizers? That’ll add to the bill.
So the takeaway is simple: kitchen size drives cabinet costs, but the extras you choose decide whether you stay within budget or exceed it.
Why Choose Buy Wholesale Cabinets for RTA Cabinets
A combination of affordability, quality, and style makes ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets a crowd favorite. Finding kitchen cabinets isn’t just about price. It’s about trust, convenience, and style. Adding wholesale kitchen cabinets to the mix means getting greater benefits. Buy Wholesale Cabinets stands out because they cut out the middleman and pass the savings straight to you. That’s hard to beat. Mentioned below are reasons why Buy Wholesale Cabinets deserves consideration:
Direct wholesale pricing
Most cabinet stores mark up price. Buy Wholesale Cabinets is known for keeping the price low. They sell at wholesale rates, passing benefits to you. So, you don’t pay extra charges anywhere.
Premium quality cabinets at budget-friendly prices
Budget-friendly price don’t mean cheap. The kitchen cabinets are built with solid materials and hardware. So they often last the test of time. You get durability and style while adhering to your budget.
Wide selection of styles and finishes to fit every kitchen design
You can get a selection of styles. These include traditional, modern, and farmhouse looks. A catalog greatly helps with the vision for your kitchen. So you need not run from one store to another. There are ample options for your aesthetic or idea.
Fast shipping across the U.S.
Waiting months for kitchen cabinets can be off-putting. With Buy Wholesale Cabinets, orders get shipped quickly. As a result, your project doesn’t get stalled. Nor are you left unchanged twiddling your thumbs.
Tips to Save Money on RTA Cabinets
Budget matters, as does style. Neither can be left unchanged overlooked. That said, saving money on kitchen cabinets doesn’t mean compromising quality or finish. Careful planning is the secret ingredient to keeping costs low, not cutting corners, and getting a kitchen you love.
Order during promotions or seasonal discounts
Cabinet sales can happen often. You should be on the lookout for holiday events or seasonal promotions. Sometimes, a waiting period of a few weeks can be well worth your time. This can be heavily beneficial, as a discount can save you hundreds.
Mix open shelving with cabinets
Full shelves tend to be more expensive than open shelves. So, it is best to use open shelves on one wall to save money. This also gives your kitchen an airy look. They are also wonderful for showing off cute dishes, pretty ceramics, or cookbooks.
Choose classic styles (like white shaker) for affordability and timeless look
Trendy designs fade fast. Classic shaker kitchen cabinets always stay in style and usually cost less. Going with timeless looks keeps your wallet and your future resale value happy. Best to opt for classic styles so they age well over the years.
DIY assembly and installation tips
Assembling ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets isn’t isn’t rocket science. A drill, some patience, and a free afternoon go a long way. Installing them yourself can save thousands in labor fees. And if you mess up once or twice, don’t worry—most mistakes are easy fixes.
Conclusion
Ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets make kitchen upgrades less stressful for many homeowners. They reduce costs without missing out on style or durability. There’s something for everyone. No matter the budget or space, options range from budget-friendly to premium finishes. The best part is the ease and control you get. You choose the look and order online. You can build them yourself or hire help. Also, the savings are significant. Thus, it is a perfect balance between affordability and quality for many.
Thoughtful planning means no future surprises. Remember to shop during sales and keep your design simple. Every step you take can help cut down on the costs. At the end of the day, ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets are a fantastic example of not requiring a massive budget to create a kitchen you’re proud of. And once they’re in place, you’ll appreciate both the look and the savings every time you walk in.
FAQs
What is the average cost of RTA cabinets?
Ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets typically cost from $100 to $300 per linear foot. So, this could mean anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 for a standard-sized kitchen. The total price ultimately depends on materials, finish, and layout. Custom cabinetry tend to be expensive and cost upwards of $20,000. Conversely, RTA stays in a much friendlier range. Hence, they’re such a favorite of homeowners looking for quality without spending a fortune.
What factors influence the cost of RTA cabinets?
Several aspects drive the price. First are the materials used; solid wood and plywood cost more than particle board. Next, the choice of finish, such as paint or stain, also matters. Then, hardware used, like soft-close hinges, increases the total. And ultimately, a larger-sized kitchen means a higher bill. Glass-front doors, pantry pull-outs, and other special add-ons can tip the scale even more.
How much does a 10×10 kitchen with RTA cabinets cost?
For ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets in a standard 10×10 kitchen layout, most homeowners spend between $2,000 and $5,000. The final cost hinges upon cabinet style and materials. A simple shaker design in plywood lands on the lower end, while detailed finishes and upgrades raise the cost. Even at the high end, it’s still much less than custom cabinetry.
Can I install RTA cabinets myself to save money?
Yes. In fact, that’s what makes them a big hit. One of the main selling points is that kitchen cabinets come flat-packed with hardware and step-by-step instructions. Those comfortable with a drill and following directions can save big on installation. A DIY installation is worth it, even if it takes a weekend and a few coffee breaks. Remember to measure carefully at the start. This helps have a smooth process while keeping mistakes to a minimum.
Do RTA cabinets sacrifice quality for price?
Not necessarily. The budget models sometimes use particle board, which isn’t as durable. However, many ready-to-assemble suppliers offer solid wood doors, plywood boxes, and dovetail drawer joints. These are the same construction methods you’d find in pricier kitchen cabinets. The savings mainly come from you doing the assembly, not from cutting corners on every detail.
Where can I buy affordable RTA cabinets online?
Several online retailers offer affordable kitchen cabinets. Buy Wholesale Cabinets is a great option, as they provide direct pricing and do not include showroom markups. For modern to traditional designs, it is best to stick to trusted sites. These sites tend to have a wide range of designs available. Remember always to check reviews and compare specs before you buy. Shopping online is easy and convenient, along with fast shipping. So, you do not need to wait months to start your project.
