Carpentry & Cabinetry Guide
Carpentry & Custom Cabinetry: Costs, Types & How to Hire
Understand the difference between stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets, learn what finish carpentry covers, and find a trusted local carpenter near you.
Cabinet Types & Costs
Cabinetry is one of the biggest cost variables in kitchen and bathroom remodels. Here's how the three tiers compare.
Stock Cabinets
$60–$200 per linear foot installed
Pre-made in standard sizes, available at home improvement stores. Limited styles and finishes.
Lead time: In stock / 1–2 weeks
Best for: Budget remodels, rental properties, quick turnarounds
Semi-Custom Cabinets
$150–$650 per linear foot installed
Made to order in a wider range of sizes and finishes. More flexibility than stock without full custom pricing.
Lead time: 4–8 weeks
Best for: Most residential kitchen and bathroom remodels
Custom Cabinets
$500–$1,500+ per linear foot installed
Built to exact specifications by a cabinet maker. Any size, style, wood species, or finish.
Lead time: 8–16 weeks
Best for: Luxury homes, unusual spaces, built-ins, heirloom quality
Finish Carpentry Services
Finish carpenters handle the detail work that makes a home feel polished and complete.
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Trim & Molding | $3–$12 per linear foot installed |
| Built-In Shelving & Bookcases | $1,500–$8,000+ |
| Wainscoting & Panelling | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Staircase Work | $1,500–$10,000+ |
| Door Installation & Hanging | $150–$400 per door |
DIY vs Hiring a Carpenter
DIY Carpentry
Suitable for:
- Simple shelf installation
- Replacing door hardware
- Painting or staining existing trim
- Basic flat-pack furniture assembly
Not suitable for:
- Custom cabinet installation
- Crown molding and complex trim work
- Staircase modifications
- Built-in furniture requiring precise fitting
Hire a Carpenter
Why hire a carpenter:
- Precise cuts and joints that look professional
- Proper fastening and structural integrity
- Experience with complex profiles and angles
- Finishing skills — filling, sanding, and painting
- Warranty on workmanship
Frequently Asked Questions
Cost ranges are national averages. Carpentry and cabinetry costs vary by region, wood species, and project complexity.
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