We’ve all experienced that feeling of sticker shock when getting quotes for a kitchen remodel. The costs of cabinets alone can derail dreams of a gourmet chef’s kitchen. But it’s the hidden fees and charges that really make budgets bust. Before finalizing your kitchen plans, read on to discover the not-so-obvious expenses that can turn your cabinet costs into a nightmare.
Hidden Cost #1: Demolition and Disposal
Installing new kitchen cabinets starts with tearing out the old. From prying cabinets off walls to ripping up countertops and backsplashes, demolition day is dirty and expensive. Most homeowners underestimate these startup costs.
You’ll need to rent a dumpster for waste removal, which can run $400 or more. Hauling fees, landfill tipping fees, and overage charges for overstuffing the dumpster add up fast. If the existing kitchen has asbestos-containing materials, hazardous abatement adds thousands in proper removal and disposal costs.
Hidden Cost #2: Structural and Utility Changes
Dream kitchens often require renovating beyond the cabinetry. You may need to relocate appliances, requiring electrical, plumbing, or gas line rerouting. Opening walls for a breakfast bar or wider doorway means reframing. Adding an island or peninsula involves grading and structural reinforcement.
Venting requirements may mandate relocating downdraft systems. New cabinet configurations might block existing pipes or wires that then need detouring. Weight load analyses should precede hanging hefty wall cabinets or giant pot racks. Such structural and utility tweaks are rarely DIY projects.
Hidden Cost #3: Required Upgrades for Permits
Your dream kitchen likely requires permits for the remodel work, and along with them come mandates. Cabinet plans may trigger building code upgrades, like adding more venting, arc-fault interrupters, or grounded outlets. Fire suppression systems, like commercial-grade sprinkler heads, can be required.
If you’re renovating public facilities or building an accessible kitchen, compliance with ADA regulations will raise costs. From proper disabled sink heights to minimum between-cabinet clearances, any overlooked design factors mean later expensive changes.
Hidden Cost #4: All the Extras
Dream kitchens incorporate every bell and whistle, but the add-ons add up. Soft-close hinges, roll-out trays, recycling center pull-outs, spice drawer organizers – convenient built-ins carry premium price tags. Glass cabinet doors show off fancy dishware but require precision installation. Recycled glass knobs and gilded pulls dress up plain cabinet fronts yet cost a pretty penny. Copper sinks and pro-style faucets elevate aesthetic appeal and blow budgets.
Then there’s undercabinet lighting on dimmers to create mood lighting. Consider too the costs of additional wiring, transformers, and installation. Don’t forget the expenses of shipping and sales tax on all these extras.
Hidden Cost #5: Sales Tax
In most states, sales tax applies to cabinetry and remodeling materials. Depending on location, plan on an 8-10% uptick over base quotes. Contractors are required to collect and remit sales tax for the materials they purchase and install. Be sure to factor this hidden fee into cabinet budgets.
Hidden Cost #6: Installation and Labor
Skilled carpenters and cabinet makers don’t come cheap, and complicated designs require more experienced crews. Precision installation of angled cabinets, multi-level countertops, and built-in specialty storage will escalate labor fees.
Existing kitchen layouts often require shimming, scribe cuts, filler strips, and custom modifications for new cabinets to fit properly. This custom handiwork multiplies installation time and charges. Don’t assume a basic allowance for installation – get an itemized quote.
Hidden Cost #7: Delivery Fees
Transporting bulky cabinets commands premium delivery fees. Fuel surcharges, residential upcharges, and stair or elevator carrying costs are commonly tacked on. Delivery to apartments, high rises, or homes requiring ferries or barges often doubles fees.
For distant manufacturers, cross-country freight costs stack up. Even local shops charge extra for room-of-choice drop-off. Don’t forget costs of possible damages during shipping too. Inspect deliveries promptly to avoid paying for concealed defects later.
Hidden Cost #8: Countertops
Dream kitchens deserve dream countertops! But premium materials like granite, marble, and quartz don’t come cheap. Natural stone tops start around $80 per square foot installed, with premium granite slabs running $200 or more. Popular quartz counters range $100-$150 per square foot.
Then there are fabrication charges for cutouts, edging, seams, and special overhangs. Undermount sink cutouts require expert precision. Integrated sink and stove backsplashes or decorative inlays add cutting complexity and expenses. Confirm all countertop specifications, as redoing work is costly.
Ambitious kitchen overhauls often derail when dreamers confront the hidden costs. From required demolitions to specialty cabinetry add-ons to permitting hoops, unexpected expenses lurk everywhere. Even “free” designer consultations may pressure upgrades busting budgets.
The steep price tags for quality cabinets will likely persist too, as the industry continues facing pandemic-related supply chain snags and labor shortages. Savvy homeowners plan ahead, research thoroughly, and collect detailed quotes from several vendors when budgeting for beauty. Keep your kitchen remodel on track by preparing for all possible pitfalls from the start.
With careful planning, due diligence, and smart compromises, you can still craft your perfect kitchen. Just beware the hidden fees waiting to crush your dreams – and your wallet – at every turn.
