How to replace your cabinet doors

Michael Woods

Under How-To

If your kitchen is due for an update, replacement cabinet doors might be a great solution. Replacing your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers is a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a face-lift without taking on a full renovation.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to replace kitchen cabinet doors, from the initial planning stages to the final installation.

How cabinet doors impact overall kitchen appearance

Cabinet doors are instrumental in defining your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. Their prominence gives them the power to transform the look and feel of the entire space. The design, color, and finish of your cabinet doors set the tone for your kitchen.

Picture your kitchen and imagine how different styles of cabinet doors might alter the vibes. For example:

Shaker doors, with their clean lines and timeless appeal, contribute to a modern, minimalist look.
Heritage doors, with their raised panels, add a touch of elegance and sophistication — ideal for traditional or transitional kitchen designs.
Glass inserts enable you to customize your space by showcasing your best china or eye-catching kitchenware.

The wood species you choose also makes a bold statement. For example, walnut’s rich, dark brown color with striking grain patterns exudes sophistication, whereas white maple’s light, airy coloring and subtle grain pattern make it ideal for smaller kitchens. And cherry wood, with its reddish-brown tones and distinctive grain patterns, infuses classic elegance into any space.

DIY vs. professional installation: What’s right for me?

So, you’re ready to replace your cabinet doors. You have two choices: Go the DIY route or opt for professional installation. Your decision depends on your budget, timeline, and comfort level with home improvement projects. Let’s compare DIY vs. professional installation:

DIY installation

Worthwhile if you’re handy and enjoy DIY projects
Involves tasks like taking accurate measurements, using power tools, and making precise adjustments
Requires time, patience, and the right tools
Cost-effective, as you forgo installation labor costs and pay only for door and drawer fronts, hardware, and any tools you need to complete the job
Gives you control over the project and the satisfaction of doing it yourself

Professional installation

Ensures the job gets done right and saves you time and, potentially, frustration
Pro installers have the expertise and experience to handle challenges that may arise
Ensures precision in completing tasks such as taking accurate measurements and mounting surface hardware
Ideal if you lack the time or DIY skills to complete a project yourself
Not as cost-effective as a DIY project

Consider your skills, budget, and available time when deciding between DIY and professional installation. For many, budget is the No. 1 consideration when choosing the best route. So, let’s take a closer look at how much each option will run you.

How much does replacing kitchen cabinet doors cost?

The cost of replacing cabinet doors varies widely depending on the project at hand. Factors include the size and number of doors you’re replacing, the material and finish of the new doors, and whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring a professional.

Let’s dive into the details:

New cabinet doors

The final price tag for new doors boils down to project size, materials, and finishes. Solid wood doors are generally more expensive than those made from HDF, rigid thermofoil (RTF), or other materials.

Replacing cabinet doors can cost between $180 and $330 per door, which would run you between $2,200 and $6,600 for an average-sized kitchen. That includes labor and the doors themselves.

This is where DIY replacing your kitchen cabinets can save you money, as you pay only for materials, hardware, and any tools you need to get the job done. Let’s explore those costs further.

Tools and materials

Doors and drawer fronts: At The Cabinet Door Store, our replacement cabinet doors and drawer fronts cost anywhere from $11.40 to $49 per square foot.
New cabinet hardware: Think hinges, slides, and brackets. Costs will vary drastically by project and the compatibility and condition of old hardware. At The Cabinet Door Store, hinges cost anywhere from just over $3 to just over $8 per part, while slides average about $31 per component, and brackets range from just under $1.50 to just over $3.
Drill: $30 to $100
Screwdriver: $5 to $20
Level: $10 to $30
Tape measure: $5 to $15

Removal and disposal costs

If you’re replacing your old doors, you’ll need to remove and dispose of them. Many contractors include this as part of their estimates. If you’re DIYing it, disposal costs come down to what your local waste disposal facility charges. You could also donate them to a home improvement resale store such as Habitat ReStore.

Professional installation

If you’re hiring a professional to do the work, you’ll need to factor in their labor expenses. The cost to replace cabinet doors can range from $140 to $230 per door, which comes out to between $1,700 and $4,600 per project for an average-sized kitchen.

Remember, these are just estimates, and the actual cost can vary based on your specific situation and location. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes before committing to a contractor’s bid.

Step-by-step guide to replacing cabinet doors

Take accurate measurements

Before replacing your cabinet doors, you’ll need accurate measurements to ensure your new doors fit properly. So, break out your tape measure.

If your existing cabinet doors and new doors have the same overlay (the amount the door hangs over the cabinet opening), the process is as simple as measuring the height and width of your existing doors and ordering doors with those precise dimensions.

It’s a little trickier if you’re changing your overlay. Here’s the process:

For single doors:

Measure the height and width of the opening and add two times the desired overlay. For example, a 12” W x 24” H opening with a 1/2” overlay would need a 13” by 25” door (2 x .5 + 12 = 13” and 2 x .5 + 24 = 25”).

For double doors:

To figure the height, use the same formula for single doors.
To calculate the width, measure the width of each opening and use this formula:
- The width of each door equals the opening width plus two times the overlay, minus 1/8″, divided by two. For example, a 24″ opening with a 1/2″ overlay would need two doors at 12 7/16″ (24 + (2 x .5) – .125 = 12.4375″).

TIP: Use our helpful cabinet fronts calculator spreadsheet to stay organized!

Other tips to navigate the measurement process include:

Don’t forget about hardware adjustments: Keep in mind that certain hardware, such as hinges or drawer slides, may require adjustments that affect the final dimensions of the door openings. Factor in any adjustments needed for the specific hardware you plan to use.
Double-check your measurements: Always verify the accuracy of your measurements by double-checking them.

Research and order new cabinet doors

Once you’ve recorded the exact measurements for each of the doors you’re replacing, it’s time for the fun part: researching and ordering your new doors.

This is the creative stage in the process. Do you prefer a modern, sleek look or a more traditional style? Do you want a stained look, or will painted cabinet doors better fit your space? Are you replacing both your kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts?

Once you have a clear idea of what you want, it’s time to order your new cabinet doors.

Gather the necessary tools and materials

Before you start the installation process, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s an exhaustive list of what you may need:

Tools:

Drill: You’ll use these for creating pilot holes and installing screws. Ensure you have the appropriate drill bits for your hardware.
Screwdriver: You will need this for tightening screws and attaching hardware.
Level: This ensures your straight and level cabinet door installation.
Tape measure and pencil: You’ll need this to record accurate measurements of your cabinet doors for placement and positioning (of both the doors and hardware).
Cabinet hardware template: This is optional but handy for precise placement of hardware.
Putty knife: You’ll need these to fill any gaps or holes with wood filler or putty (more on that soon).
Sandpaper: This is another handy touchup tool for smoothing surfaces and removing rough spots.
Wood glue: This is helpful to have in case your cabinet doors require additional reinforcement or repairs.

Materials:

New cabinet doors: Choose the style, material, and finish that best suits your kitchen design.
Screws: Ensure you have the appropriate screws for attaching the new doors and hardware.
Cabinet hinges: Choose the hinge type that best suits your cabinetry and the layout of your kitchen. If replacing corner cabinets, a Blum Corner Cabinet Hinge Kit will do the job. For face-frame cabinets, choose Salice Compact Hinges with soft-close action.
Cabinet knobs or handles: Select the hardware that complements your cabinet doors and overall aesthetic.
Wood filler or putty: Used to fill any gaps, cracks, or holes in the cabinets or doors.
Primer: If you’re painting the new doors, a primer may be required to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish.
Paint or stain: Choose the desired paint or stain color to match your kitchen’s style.

Optional tools:

Blum Knock-in Tool: Specifically designed for installing press-in concealed hinges, this tool allows for easy and precise installation by aligning the hinge over the boring holes and pounding it into place with a rubber mallet.
Miter saw: This is helpful for cutting trim or moldings if you plan to add decorative accents to your cabinet doors.
Router: If you’re installing recessed panel doors, a router can help create the desired profile.

Remove existing cabinet doors

To begin the cabinet door replacement process, you’ll need to remove the existing doors from your cabinets. Follow these steps for a smooth and damage-free removal:

Empty the cabinets: Clear out the contents of your cabinets. This prevents accidental damage and keeps items from getting in the way during the door removal process.
Locate the hinges: Identify the hinges that attach the doors to the cabinet frames. These hinges are typically located on the interior side of the cabinet.
Unscrew the hinges: Using a screwdriver or drill, carefully unscrew the hinges from both the cabinet frames and the doors. Place the screws in a secure container to avoid misplacing them.
Remove the doors: With the hinges detached, gently lift the doors away from the cabinet frames. It may be helpful to have a friend or family member assist you, especially if the doors are large or heavy. Set the doors aside in a safe area where they won’t be damaged.

TIP: Keep the hardware in a safe place: Hang on to the hardware and screws removed from the doors. These may be reused when installing the new doors. Store them in a labeled bag or container to ensure they don’t get mixed up or lost.

Install new cabinet doors

After gathering your new cabinet doors and the required tools and materials, it’s time to begin the installation process. Follow these steps to install your new doors:

Attach the hinges: Begin by attaching the hinges to your new cabinet doors according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to position the hinges at the correct locations on the doors.
Align the doors: Carefully align the new doors with the corresponding cabinet openings. Ensure you position the doors evenly and level them with the surrounding cabinets. Take your time to achieve the desired alignment.
Secure the doors: Once properly aligned, secure them in place using the provided screws. Start by attaching the hinges to the cabinet frames, adjusting them as needed to ensure a proper fit. Then, fasten the screws tightly to hold the doors securely in place.
Test the doors: After installing the doors, check their functionality by opening and closing them multiple times. Ensure that they operate smoothly and align properly with the cabinet frames. Make any necessary adjustments to the hinges or door placement to achieve the desired fit.

Learn more with The Cabinet Door Store

When it comes to kitchen remodels, replacing cabinet doors is a cost-effective and impactful way to refresh your space. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can easily replace your cabinet doors and achieve a fresh, updated appearance for your kitchen.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer professional assistance, The Cabinet Door Store offers a wide range of resources, including guides, tutorials, and high-quality products, to help you successfully complete your project.

For more information and personalized assistance, feel free to contact us. Start your kitchen transformation today and create a space that you’ll love for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace just the cabinet doors and keep my existing cabinets?

Yes. Replacing just cabinet doors is a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh, new look without the need for a full remodel. Whether you want to update the style, change the color, or improve the functionality of your cabinets, replacing the doors is a great option. As long as your existing cabinets are structurally sound and in good condition, there’s no need to replace them entirely. Simply removing the old doors and installing new ones can make a significant difference in the appearance of your kitchen.

Is it easy to replace cabinet doors and drawers on my own?

Replacing cabinet doors and drawers on your own can be a rewarding DIY project, especially if you enjoy working with your hands and have some basic handyperson skills. The difficulty level varies depending on the complexity of the cabinet design, the type of hardware involved, and your level of experience. However, most homeowners can successfully complete this task with preparation, patience, and the right tools. It’s always a good idea to consult with professionals or seek advice from experienced DIY enthusiasts to ensure a smooth and successful installation.

Is it difficult to replace glass in kitchen cabinet doors?

Replacing glass in kitchen cabinet doors requires some precision and care, but it is certainly achievable with the right tools and techniques. The level of difficulty varies depending on the type of cabinet door and the method of glass installation. In some cases, you may need to remove the entire door from the cabinet frame to access the glass panel, while in other cases, you can replace the glass without removing the entire door. To begin the process, remove the existing glass by carefully taking out any retaining clips or moldings. It's important to handle the glass cautiously to prevent any breakage or injury. Once you’ve removed the old glass, thoroughly clean the door frame and prepare it for the new glass. Depending on the design, you may need to use glazing points, clips, or adhesive to secure the new glass in place. Take accurate measurements to ensure the glass fits snugly and aligns properly with the door frame. While replacing glass in kitchen cabinet doors can be more challenging than replacing solid doors, you can get the job done with patience and attention to detail. If you're not confident in your abilities or feel uncomfortable working with glass, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from professionals who specialize in glass installation.