Cost-Effective Kitchen Upgrades With Cabinet Shelves
Replacing worn-out shelves in your kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look and utility of your kitchen. Upgrading to custom-sized shelving creates extra storage, while stylish materials like glass or metal add contemporary flair. Best of all, new cabinet shelves cost far less than full cabinet replacement.
With some precise measurements and basic DIY skills, these affordable upgrades can maximize unused space in your existing layout. Read on to learn the benefits of cabinet shelving, material options, where to shop, installation tips, and more.
The Benefits of Replacement Cabinet Shelves
Investing in replacement shelves offers many rewards for budget-conscious renovators:
Affordable Kitchen Upgrades
New cabinet shelves provide big visual impact at a fraction of the cost of brand new cabinets. Custom sizes utilize all available space to prevent wasted corners or gaps. For roughly $25-$100 per shelf, you'll gain valuable storage and a fresh, lighter look in the heart of your kitchen.
Storage and Organization
Reconfigured shelving adapts to fit your needs, not awkward cabinet dimensions. Pull-out shelves effortlessly access hard-to-reach spots. Tiered shelves double capacity over single shelves. Optimized space reduces clutter and makes finding ingredients and cookware easier.
| Match finishes | New shelves coordinate with existing cabinet surfaces after refacing, maintaining harmony. |
| Glass/metal shelving | Sleek, lightweight materials work in modern and transitional kitchens. |
Material and Style Options
Open or closed, cupboards get refreshed with updated shelves specially chosen to match your kitchen's look. Crisp white laminate offers an affordable clean slate inside cabinets, while real wood veneers handsomely blend with visible exteriors. Make the most of a remodeling project by selecting shelves that accent the new counters, floors or backsplashes you've picked.
Where to Purchase Replacement Shelves
Finding retailers with suitable replacement shelves involves some savvy shopping skills:
Specialty Retailers Offer Most Selection
Big box home centers sell common shelving in generic sizes. For custom pieces that maximize every inch, turn to specialists like Cabinet Doors 'N More. Their shelves ship within 5-7 days, and occasional discount codes sweeten the already reasonable prices. Peruse the wide offerings online or consult their customer service team.
Big Box Stores Carry Basic Replacements
Lowe's and The Home Depot stock affordable plywood shelves starting under $20. Though you'll likely need to trim lengths down, their no-hassle returns mean you can easily swap sizes. Limited customization keeps costs down, but also reduces storage efficiency.
Measure Carefully Before Ordering
A perfect custom shelf starts with precise interior cabinet measurements. A few simple steps ensure you select shelves that fit correctly:
Width, Depth and Height
Use a tape measure to capture inside dimensions, corner to corner. Note irregularities from bowed walls or pipes. Remember to measure any existing shelves you plan to replicate. Provide these numbers when ordering replacements. Err on the larger side to allow trimming adjustments during installation.
Draw Precise Sketches
Snap photos of your empty cabinets to supplement the measurements. Sketch proposed locations for shelf brackets and placement of corners. These details assist customer service agents suggest properly sized shelves.
Installation Tips and Tricks
Installing new shelves ranks as intermediate on the DIY difficulty scale. Stay organized and work methodically to get it right the first time:
Gather the Right Tools
A power drill drives screws quickly, while a tape measure and level keep shelves even. Gather screwdrivers, pencils, safety gear and all hardware before starting. Review any instructions and prep paint or finishes.
Watch Online Tutorials
Videos demonstrate proper bracket attachment, leveling methods and tricks for awkward corners. Take notes and absorb experts' advice before attempting to install shelves yourself.
Thoroughly clear and clean cabinets first. Concentrate your effort in one area like base cabinets or uppers, completing it fully before moving on. Keep instructions handy to avoid mistakes due to fatigue or frustration.
The savvy investments of energy and money spent replacing worn kitchen cabinet shelves pay off for years through upgraded style, optimized storage and sheer satisfaction watching your vision come alive. Why settle for dingy metal racks or sagging wood when custom shelves stand ready to raise your cabinet game affordably?