Thinking about giving your kitchen a fresh look without spending a fortune? I’ve been there, and I know how much does it cost to repaint kitchen cabinets is probably your biggest question right now.
The good news is repainting saves you thousands compared to full replacements. In this guide, I’ll break down professional pricing, what affects your final bill, and smart ways to cut costs.
You’ll learn about average costs per kitchen size, optional upgrades, and when DIY makes sense. I’ve done the research so you don’t have to guess.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to budget and how to get the best value for your money.
Average Cost of Professional Cabinet Repainting
Professional cabinet repainting costs vary based on kitchen size, cabinet count, and project scope but typically range from affordable to mid-range investments.
Small kitchens with 10-15 cabinets usually cost $1,200 to $2,500. Medium kitchens with 15-25 cabinets run $2,500 to $4,500. Large kitchens with 25+ cabinets can cost $4,500 to $8,000 or more.
Most professionals charge $30 to $60 per linear foot of cabinetry. Per square foot pricing ranges from $3 to $10. Individual doors cost $50 to $100 each, while drawers run $25 to $50 per drawer front.
Ask contractors which pricing method they use before committing.
Factors That Affect Professional Painting Costs
Multiple variables influence your final cabinet repainting bill, from material type to design complexity and preparation requirements.
Cabinet Material and Condition
Wood cabinets are easiest to paint and typically cost less. Laminate cabinets need special primers, adding $200 to $500. Metal cabinets require rust treatment and cost 20-30% more than wood.
Cabinets in poor condition need repairs before painting. Water damage, loose hinges, or structural issues increase costs significantly.
Number of Cabinets, Doors, and Drawers
More cabinets mean higher costs. Upper cabinets usually cost less than lower cabinets because they’re smaller.
Cabinets with glass doors or open shelving can lower your price by 10-15%. Don’t forget toe kicks and cabinet sides, which some contractors charge extra for.
Paint Type, Finish, and Color Choices
Professional-grade acrylic or alkyd paints cost more but last longer than basic latex. Glossy finishes require more prep work, adding to labor costs.
Darker colors need extra coats, increasing expenses by 15-25%. Custom color matching adds $50 to $150, while standard colors cost less.
Prep Work Requirements (Sanding, Priming, Repairs)
Thorough sanding accounts for 30-40% of professional costs. Quality primers cost $30 to $60 per gallon but prevent peeling.
Filling hardware holes adds $100 to $300. Heavily soiled cabinets require degreasing solutions and extra labor.
Cabinet Design Complexity
Simple flat-panel cabinets cost less to paint. Raised-panel doors require more time and cost 20-30% more.
Ornate moldings and decorative elements increase costs significantly. Glass inserts require masking and protection, adding time and money.
Optional Services and Upgrades
Additional services can improve your results and extend cabinet life but come with extra costs worth considering.
Hardware Replacement
New knobs and pulls cost $2 to $15 each for basic options, or $15 to $40 for mid-range. Installation adds $2 to $5 per piece in labor.
New hardware completely changes your cabinet look. Keeping existing hardware saves $200 to $800 on average.
Stripping Old Paint or Varnish
Chemical stripping costs $500 to $1,500 extra for an average kitchen. Heat stripping runs similar pricing but takes longer.
Not all cabinets need stripping. If your current finish is in good shape, thorough sanding is usually enough. Stripping is essential for heavily varnished cabinets to prevent peeling.
Protective Topcoat or Sealer
Professional-grade topcoats add $300 to $800 to your project. They protect against scratches, stains, and moisture.
Polyurethane topcoats provide the most durability for high-traffic kitchens. Water-based sealers dry faster and have less odor. Some paints include built-in protection, so ask if a separate topcoat is necessary.
Sprayer or Factory-Grade Finishes
Professional spray equipment adds $300 to $1,000 to the total cost. Spray finishes eliminate brush marks completely and look more like new factory cabinets.
This method requires removing doors and spraying off-site. Cabinet boxes are still hand-rolled in place.
Professional vs. DIY: Cost Comparison
Understanding the cost difference helps you decide which approach makes sense for your budget and skill level.
| Factor | Professional | DIY |
| Cost | $2,000 to $5,000 | $200 to $600 in materials |
| Time Required | 3-5 days | 40-80 hours (two full weeks) |
| Equipment | Professional-grade spray equipment and tools included | Need to buy or rent tools |
| Experience | Years of experience, avoids common mistakes | Learning curve can be costly |
| Kitchen Disruption | Minimal, usable quickly | Weeks of disruption |
| Warranty | Typically included, protects your investment | No warranty, you fix mistakes yourself |
| Results | Smooth, factory-like finish | Quality varies based on skill level |
| Best For | All cabinet types, complex designs, time-sensitive projects | Small projects, flat-panel cabinets, tight budgets |
| Risk | Low, backed by professionals | High, poor results cost more to fix |
DIY works best for small projects with just a few cabinets or if you have painting experience and proper tools. Flat-panel cabinets in good condition are DIY-friendly, while complex designs are better left to professionals. Consider painting a single cabinet as a test before committing to the whole kitchen.
Cost-Saving Tips When Hiring Professionals
Smart preparation and planning can reduce your professional repainting costs without sacrificing quality results.
- Empty all cabinets completely and clean exteriors with a degreaser before your contractor arrives. This saves $100 to $300 in labor costs.
- Remove hardware and clear the kitchen area yourself. This simple prep work cuts 2-3 hours of billable time.
- Stick with standard colors from major paint brands instead of custom matching. Choose mid-range paint quality over premium since the difference is minimal.
- Select satin or semi-gloss finishes for the best balance of durability and cost. Avoid trendy colors that might require repainting soon.
- Clean existing hardware thoroughly with degreaser and warm water. Most pieces look nearly new and save $200 to $800 in replacement costs.
- Spray paint hardware in a coordinating finish for $20 instead of buying new pieces for $300+. Replace only damaged or broken pieces.
- Ask contractors about paint discounts or contractor pricing. Some painters pass these savings directly to customers.
Conclusion
Now you know how much does it cost to repaint kitchen cabinets and what affects your final bill. I repainted mine three years ago for $3,200, and it still feels like a win every morning.
The investment pays off in home value and daily joy. Take your time finding the right contractor. Get multiple quotes and ask about warranties.
Ready to give your cabinets new life? Start gathering quotes this week. Your refreshed kitchen is closer than you think. Share your plans in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does professional cabinet repainting take?
Most jobs take 3-5 days for an average kitchen. Larger or complex kitchens may need up to a week.
Can all cabinet types be repainted successfully?
Wood cabinets work best for repainting. Laminate and metal cabinets can be painted but need special primers and prep work.
How long will professionally repainted cabinets last?
Quality paint jobs last 8-10 years with proper care. High-traffic kitchens may need touch-ups after 5-7 years.
Is repainting cheaper than refacing cabinets?
Yes, repainting costs 50-70% less than refacing. Typical repainting runs $2,000-$5,000 versus $4,000-$10,000 for refacing.
Do I need to leave my home during cabinet painting?
No, you don’t need to leave. Modern paints have low odor and are safe with proper ventilation like open windows.
