Restaining kitchen cabinets can refresh your home. It can save you money compared to buying new ones. So, how much does it cost to restain kitchen cabinets? You can expect the average cost to restain kitchen cabinets to range from $1,500 to $4,500. However, the total cabinet refinishing cost can go higher or lower. It depends on many things. These include the size of your kitchen, the type of wood, and if you do it yourself or hire a pro. For a small kitchen, the kitchen cabinet staining price might be as low as $1,000. For a big kitchen with many cabinets, it could reach $7,000 or more.
This guide will break down the costs. It will help you plan your budget. We will look at what makes prices change. We will also compare DIY options to hiring experts.
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Why Restain Your Kitchen Cabinets?
Your kitchen cabinets see a lot of daily use. Over time, their finish can fade. It can get scratches or look old. Restaining offers a great way to give them a fresh look. It does not require a full replacement. This choice often costs much less than buying new cabinets. It also helps the environment by reusing what you have. Restaining can update your kitchen’s style. It can also boost your home’s value. It brings new life to an old space.
Factors Affecting Your Restaining Project Cost
Many things can change the final cost. Knowing these helps you guess your own cabinet refinishing cost better.
The Size of Your Kitchen and Cabinets
This is the biggest factor. More cabinets mean more work and more materials.
Larger kitchens have more cabinet doors and drawer fronts. This means more surface area to strip and restain. The cost per linear foot to restain cabinets is a common way to estimate. This often ranges from $30 to $100 per linear foot. A linear foot measures the length of your cabinets if laid out straight.
Think about your kitchen layout.
* Small kitchen: Fewer cabinets, lower cost.
* Medium kitchen: Average number of cabinets, average cost.
* Large kitchen: Many cabinets, higher cost.
Type of Wood
The kind of wood your cabinets are made from can affect the cost. Some woods are easier to stain than others.
* Softwoods (pine, cedar): These can soak up stain unevenly. They might need more prep work. This can add to the cost.
* Hardwoods (oak, maple, cherry): These usually stain well. They might need less special prep. But some very dense woods might need more time to absorb the stain.
The current condition of the wood also matters. If the wood has deep marks or water damage, it will need more repair. This adds to the kitchen cabinet restoration cost.
Current Condition of the Cabinets
How do your cabinets look now?
* Good condition: Minor wear, just needs a fresh coat. This is the simplest job.
* Fair condition: Some scratches, dents, or faded spots. These will need more sanding or repair.
* Poor condition: Deep scratches, water damage, grease buildup, or old peeling finish. These need a lot of prep. They might even need to strip the old finish entirely. The cost to strip and restain cabinets will be higher in these cases. Stripping adds a lot of labor.
Type of Stain and Finish
Stains come in many shades. They also come in different types.
* Oil-based stains: These are durable. They can take longer to dry.
* Water-based stains: These dry faster. They are easier to clean up.
* Gel stains: These are good for tricky woods. They sit on top, not soak in as much.
The finish or topcoat also matters.
* Polyurethane: Very durable, common choice.
* Lacquer: Dries fast, smooth finish.
* Varnish: Strong protection.
Some finishes cost more. Applying them might need special tools or skills.
Labor vs. DIY
This is a big choice.
* Professional cabinet restaining cost: You pay for expert skills and time. This is more expensive.
* DIY cabinet restaining cost: You save on labor. But you pay for materials and tools. You also use your own time.
We will look at these options in more detail.
Geographic Location
Where you live also changes prices. Labor costs are higher in big cities or areas with a higher cost of living. A professional cabinet restaining cost in New York City will likely be more than in a rural area.
Breakdown of Costs
Let’s look at what makes up the total bill.
Material Costs
The materials you need will include:
* Stain: $20 – $50 per quart. You may need a few quarts depending on cabinet size.
* Pre-stain conditioner: $10 – $25 per quart. This helps stain absorb evenly.
* Topcoat/Sealer: $30 – $70 per gallon. This protects the stain.
* Stripper (if needed): $25 – $50 per gallon. If you need to strip old finish.
* Sandpaper: $10 – $30. Various grits for smoothing.
* Cleaners/Degreasers: $10 – $20. For deep cleaning.
* Brushes, rollers, rags: $20 – $50. Tools for applying stain.
* Drop cloths, painter’s tape: $15 – $30. To protect your floors and walls.
* Safety gear (gloves, masks): $10 – $20. Important for your health.
Total material costs for a DIY project might be anywhere from $100 to $500. This depends on what you already have and the size of your kitchen.
Labor Cost to Restain Cabinets
Hiring a pro means paying for their time and skill. The labor cost to restain cabinets makes up most of the bill.
* Hourly rates: Painters or cabinet refinishers might charge $50 to $100 per hour.
* Per project: Many pros give a flat rate for the whole job.
* Time needed: Restaining is a slow process. It involves many steps:
1. Removing doors and hardware.
2. Deep cleaning.
3. Stripping old finish (if needed).
4. Sanding.
5. Applying wood conditioner.
6. Applying multiple coats of stain.
7. Applying multiple coats of topcoat.
8. Reinstalling doors and hardware.
This process can take anywhere from 3 to 7 days for an average kitchen. Large kitchens can take even longer. This is why the professional cabinet restaining cost is higher.
Average Cost to Restain Kitchen Cabinets
Let’s look at some average figures. These are just estimates. Your actual cost can vary.
Small Kitchen (10-15 linear feet of cabinets)
- DIY Cost: $100 – $300 (materials only)
- Professional Cost: $1,000 – $2,000
Medium Kitchen (20-30 linear feet of cabinets)
- DIY Cost: $200 – $500 (materials only)
- Professional Cost: $2,000 – $4,000
Large Kitchen (30+ linear feet of cabinets)
- DIY Cost: $300 – $700+ (materials only)
- Professional Cost: $4,000 – $7,000+
These figures assume average conditions. If your cabinets need a full strip and major repairs, the cost to strip and restain cabinets will be at the higher end. It could even exceed these ranges.
Restain vs Paint Kitchen Cabinets Cost
People often compare restaining to painting. Both are good ways to update cabinets. They have different costs and looks.
Restaining Cabinets
- Pros: Shows off wood grain. Looks natural. Can hide small imperfections in the wood. Very durable finish if done right. Adds warmth.
- Cons: Limited color choices (only wood tones). Harder to change a dark stain to a light one. Requires stripping if you want a lighter look.
- Cost: Generally $1,500 – $4,500 for pros. Often costs a bit more than painting. This is because restaining often needs more prep. You might need to strip the old finish. The wood needs to be clean and raw for the stain to soak in.
Painting Cabinets
- Pros: Endless color choices. Can cover up old, dated wood. Easier to do yourself sometimes. Can make a kitchen look bright and modern.
- Cons: Can hide beautiful wood grain. Paint can chip or scratch more easily if not prepped well. Shows imperfections more if not smoothed properly.
- Cost: Generally $1,000 – $4,000 for pros. Can be slightly less than restaining. Painting still needs a lot of prep. You need to clean, sand lightly, and prime.
So, the restain vs paint kitchen cabinets cost often favors painting slightly. But it depends on the specific project. If your cabinets are in bad shape, painting might be a better choice. It can cover flaws. If you love the wood look, restaining is best.
Here is a quick comparison table:
| Feature | Restaining Cabinets | Painting Cabinets |
|---|---|---|
| Average Pro Cost | $1,500 – $4,500 | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| DIY Material Cost | $100 – $700+ | $100 – $500+ |
| Appearance | Enhances natural wood grain, richer look | Solid color, modern, hides wood grain |
| Prep Work | Often requires stripping, very thorough cleaning | Cleaning, light sanding, priming (often needed) |
| Color Options | Limited to wood tones | Unlimited colors |
| Durability | Very durable if done well | Can chip if not prepped and applied well |
| Skill Level | High skill for even results, especially stripping | Medium to high, good technique for smooth finish |
DIY Cabinet Restaining Cost: Is It Worth It?
Doing it yourself can save a lot on labor. The DIY cabinet restaining cost is mainly for materials. As noted, this can be $100 to $700. But is it worth your time and effort?
Pros of DIY
- Save money: You avoid labor costs.
- Control: You choose all the products. You work on your own schedule.
- Satisfaction: You get pride from doing it yourself.
Cons of DIY
- Time-consuming: This is a very long project. It can take days or weeks of your free time.
- Skill needed: Restaining cabinets is not easy. It needs patience and attention to detail. Mistakes are hard to fix. Uneven stain looks bad.
- Tools: You might need to buy or rent specific tools.
- Safety: You deal with chemicals. Good ventilation and safety gear are a must.
- Results may vary: Professional results are hard to match.
If you have experience with woodworking and a lot of free time, DIY might be for you. If you want a perfect, flawless finish, hiring a pro is usually better. The difference in the kitchen cabinet staining price might be worth it for the quality and peace of mind.
Professional Cabinet Restaining Cost: What to Expect
Hiring pros means you get expertise. They have the right tools and knowledge. They often get better results faster.
What a Professional Does
- Assessment: They check your cabinets. They tell you what needs to be done.
- Prep Work: This is key. They take off all doors and drawers. They clean everything thoroughly. They protect your home.
- Stripping (if needed): They use strong removers to strip the old finish. This is messy and takes time.
- Sanding: They sand very carefully. They use different grits for a smooth surface. This helps the stain absorb well.
- Staining: They apply stain evenly. They ensure the color is consistent across all pieces.
- Finishing: They apply multiple coats of a protective topcoat. They sand lightly between coats.
- Reinstallation: They put everything back. They adjust doors and drawers.
Benefits of Hiring a Pro
- Quality: They have the skills for a smooth, even finish.
- Efficiency: They work faster. They have a team.
- Tools: They have all the right tools for the job.
- Less stress for you: You do not have to worry about the hard work.
- Warranty: Many pros offer a warranty on their work.
Getting Quotes
Always get quotes from at least three different companies.
* Ask for details: Make sure the quote shows everything. This includes prep, stripping, stain type, and finish.
* Check references: Ask for past client reviews.
* Look at portfolios: See their previous work.
* Confirm insurance: Make sure they are insured.
The professional cabinet restaining cost can vary a lot between companies. This is why getting multiple bids is smart.
Cost Per Linear Foot to Restain Cabinets
Many pros use linear feet to estimate projects. This helps to get a rough idea quickly. The cost per linear foot to restain cabinets usually ranges from $30 to $100.
How to Measure Linear Feet
- Measure the length of all your upper cabinets.
- Measure the length of all your lower cabinets.
- Add these numbers together.
Example:
* Your upper cabinets total 15 feet in length.
* Your lower cabinets total 20 feet in length.
* Total linear feet = 15 + 20 = 35 linear feet.
If the pro charges $70 per linear foot:
* Total estimated cost = 35 linear feet x $70/linear foot = $2,450.
Remember, this is a rough estimate. It helps for comparing quotes. The true cost will depend on how many doors and drawers you have. It also depends on their condition. Very detailed doors take more time.
Kitchen Cabinet Restoration Cost: Beyond Just Staining
Sometimes, cabinets need more than just a new stain. The term “kitchen cabinet restoration cost” can include repairs.
* Minor repairs: Fixing loose hinges, minor dings, or scratches. This might be included in the staining price. Or it might add a small fee ($50-$200).
* Major repairs: Replacing damaged panels, fixing major structural issues, or custom additions. This will add to the cost. It could be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more.
* Hardware replacement: New knobs and pulls can update the look. They range from $2 to $20 per piece. This cost is extra.
Make sure your quote clearly states if any repairs are included. Or if they are an added cost.
Can I Restain Cabinets Without Stripping?
This is a common question. For a good result, stripping is often needed.
* When stripping is needed:
* If you want to change the color from dark to light.
* If the old finish is peeling, chipped, or uneven.
* If there is a thick buildup of old stain or topcoat.
* If you want the new stain to soak into the wood evenly.
* When stripping might not be needed:
* If you are going darker than the current stain.
* If the current finish is thin and in perfect condition.
* If the wood is very light and you just want to add a deeper tone.
Even if you do not strip, you still need to clean and sand very well. This opens up the wood grain. This lets the new stain stick. Not stripping can lead to uneven color or poor adhesion. This means the stain might not last long. The cost to strip and restain cabinets is higher. But it often gives a much better and lasting finish.
Steps in the Restaining Process
Knowing the steps helps you see why the cost adds up.
1. Empty and Remove: Clear cabinets. Take off all doors, drawers, and hardware. Label everything.
2. Clean: Use a strong degreaser to remove all grease and dirt. This is a very important step.
3. Strip (if needed): Apply chemical stripper. Scrape off the old finish. Repeat until clean. This is the hardest part.
4. Sand: Sand all surfaces smooth. Start with coarser sandpaper. Finish with finer grit. This opens the wood pores.
5. Clean Dust: Wipe away all dust. Use a tack cloth.
6. Apply Pre-Stain Conditioner: This helps the stain go on evenly. It is crucial for certain woods.
7. Apply Stain: Apply stain in thin, even coats. Wipe off excess. Let it dry fully between coats. You might need 2-3 coats.
8. Apply Topcoat/Sealer: Apply 2-3 coats of a protective finish. Sand lightly with very fine grit between coats.
9. Reassemble: Put hardware back on. Reinstall doors and drawers. Adjust them as needed.
Each step takes time and care. This shows why the labor cost to restain cabinets is a big part of the professional fee.
Tips for Saving Money
Want to lower your kitchen cabinet staining price? Here are some ideas.
* Do some prep yourself: Remove doors, clean, and maybe even sand lightly. Ask your pro if this saves you money.
* Choose a simpler stain: Very custom or hard-to-find stains might cost more.
* Don’t change color drastically: Going from dark to light often means stripping. This adds cost. Sticking with the same shade or going darker is cheaper.
* Get multiple quotes: Always compare prices from different companies.
* Consider refacing: If your cabinet boxes are okay but doors are bad, refacing is an option. It costs less than new cabinets. It costs more than restaining.
* Maintain your cabinets: Good care makes them last longer. This delays the need for major work.
Conclusion
Restaining your kitchen cabinets is a great way to update your home. It saves you money compared to buying new ones. The cabinet refinishing cost can range from $1,500 to $4,500 on average. But it can go higher or lower. It depends on your kitchen’s size, cabinet condition, and whether you DIY or hire a pro.
Remember, the cost to strip and restain cabinets will be higher if your old finish needs removal. The labor cost to restain cabinets makes up a big part of professional fees. The DIY cabinet restaining cost is much less in terms of money, but high in terms of your time and effort. Weigh the pros and cons carefully. Get detailed quotes. With good planning, you can give your kitchen a beautiful new look. You can do it without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take to restain kitchen cabinets?
A1: For a professional, it often takes 3 to 7 days for an average kitchen. This includes drying times between coats. If you do it yourself, it can take 1 to 2 weeks of part-time work. This is because you likely work slower and have other things to do.
Q2: Is restaining cabinets a messy job?
A2: Yes, it can be. Stripping old finish creates dust and might involve strong chemicals. Sanding creates fine dust. Staining needs careful work to avoid drips. Professionals use drop cloths and tape to protect your home. If doing it yourself, take strong steps to protect your floors, walls, and other kitchen items.
Q3: How often should kitchen cabinets be restained?
A3: If done well, a restained finish can last 10 to 15 years. This depends on how much you use your kitchen. Good care and regular cleaning can help your cabinets last even longer. If you notice fading, scratches, or wear, it might be time for a refresh.
Q4: Can I change the color of my cabinets from very dark to very light?
A4: Changing a very dark stain to a very light one is hard. It usually means you must fully strip the old dark stain. This ensures the new light stain looks even. If you do not strip, the old dark color will show through. It will make the new stain look muddy. Sometimes, going from dark to light is only possible by painting the cabinets.
Q5: Will restaining increase my home’s value?
A5: Yes, a freshly restained kitchen can boost your home’s value. The kitchen is a key room for homebuyers. A nice, updated kitchen makes a good impression. It shows care for the home. Restaining is a cost-effective way to get this benefit compared to a full kitchen remodel.