Are Metal or Wood Cabinets Cheaper?

When renovating a kitchen, one of the biggest decisions is choosing between metal or wood cabinets. Both have their pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, style, and maintenance. Determining whether metal or wood cabinets are cheaper depends on several factors.

Cost Comparison Between Metal and Wood Kitchen Cabinets

The cost of kitchen cabinets varies greatly depending on the materials, quality of construction, features, brand, and more. Here is an overview of the cost differences between metal and wood cabinets:

Metal Kitchen Cabinets

• Lower-end: $75 – $150 per linear foot
• Mid-range: $150 – $350 per linear foot
• Higher-end: $350 – $550+ per linear foot

Metal cabinets on the lower end of the price scale are typically made with thinner steel gauges, lighter duty hardware, and fewer features. Higher-end metal cabinets use thicker steel, soft-close hinges and drawer glides, and more durable finishes.

Wood Kitchen Cabinets

• Stock or RTA (ready-to-assemble): $100 – $300 per linear foot
• Semi-custom: $250 – $650 per linear foot
• Custom: $500 – $1,500+ per linear foot

Stock wood cabinets are mass-produced and available for quick delivery. Custom wood cabinets are made to order with high-end materials and construction. Semi-custom falls in between with some customizable options.

Key Factors Affecting Cost

• Materials: Steel versus wood, gauge thickness, species of wood (maple, oak, etc)
• Construction quality: Dovetail joints, soft-close hardware, joinery methods
• Features: Drawers, pull-outs, organizational accessories
• Door styles: Slab, shaker, inset, overlay, embellished
• Finishes: Paint, stain, glaze, distressing
• Brand: Well-known brands charge a premium

Generally, you can expect to pay less overall for metal kitchen cabinets compared to wood. But there are budget-friendly options in both categories, as well as very high-end choices that cost more.

Pros and Cons of Metal vs Wood Cabinets

Beyond just cost, here are some key comparisons between metal and wood cabinets:

Metal Cabinet Pros

• Lower starting cost
• Highly durable and dent-resistant
• Consistent quality with modern manufacturing
• Low maintenance and easy to clean
• Large variety of colors and finishes
• Resists moisture, mold, and pests

Metal Cabinet Cons

• Can dent or scratch if enough force is used
• Exposed edges may be sharp
• Limited style options compared to wood
• Paint can chip over time if low quality
• Not as easily repairable as wood
• Less customization available

Wood Cabinet Pros

• Timeless, classic appearance
• Can be sanded and refinished
• Easily repaired if damaged
• Customizable with endless style options
• Softer appearance and feel than metal

Wood Cabinet Cons

• More expensive starting costs
• Absorbs moisture and susceptible to warping
• Not as dent or scratch resistant
• Requires more maintenance
• Exposed edges can chip and peel
• Quality and longevity varies greatly

Durability Comparison

When evaluating long term durability, both metal and wood cabinets have the potential to last 15-25 years or longer with proper care.

Metal cabinets are highly resistant to dents, scratches, mold, moisture, and pests thanks to their rigid steel construction. Over time, the paint may chip or scratch if subjected to heavy impacts. Lower quality metal cabinets are more likely to show wear.

Solid wood cabinets can also last decades with proper maintenance. Avoiding excess moisture, using cabinet liners, cleaning spills promptly, and refinishing when needed are key. Particleboard or MDF cabinets with laminate finishes have a shorter lifespan.

Neither material is immune to dents and scratches when excessive force is applied. Metal can be bent or gouged, while wood will chip and dent. Handle both with care during installation and use.

Ease of Maintenance

Metal cabinets are more hassle-free when it comes to cleaning and upkeep. Their non-porous finish wipes clean easily with just soap and water, resisting stains, spills and grime buildup.

Wood cabinets require more routine maintenance. Moisture and spills need to be wiped up quickly to avoid water damage and staining. Regular dusting and occasional resealing of the finish may be needed. Refinishing is an option down the road to restore wood’s appearance.

Neither material is maintenance-free, but metal cabinets do require less ongoing care compared to real wood.

Style and Design Options

When it comes to versatility of style, wood cabinets win out over metal. Wood can be stained, painted, glazed, distressed, and finished to achieve a wide array of looks from contemporary to farmhouse. Customization options for cabinet shapes, edges, moldings and details are nearly endless.

Metal cabinets come in a more limited but growing range of colors, sheens, and finishes. While customization is possible, it is more costly than tailoring stock wood cabinets. Metal’s styles lean modern and transitional in the current market.

Environmental Impact

Both metal and wood cabinets have pros and cons when it comes to sustainability.

Metal is highly recyclable. Some manufacturers use recycled steel and environmentally-responsible practices. However, mining and initial steel production is energy-intensive.

Wood is a renewable and naturally biodegradable resource. But some woods are harvested from endangered forests. Responsible sourcing and forestry certification is important.

Ideally, look for kitchen cabinets made with recycled and non-toxic materials, sustainable wood certification, and low-VOC finishes whether choosing metal or wood.

Are Metal or Wood Cabinets Cheaper: The Bottom Line

Taking all factors into consideration, metal cabinets tend to be more affordable than wood when comparing similar construction quality, features and style.

However, there is significant overlap in pricing. Entry-level wood cabinets can compete with mid-range metal cabinets. Higher-end metal cabinets approach the cost of custom wood.

Average costs per linear foot provide a general guide:

• Metal: $100-$300+
• Wood: $200-$600+

But ultimately, your total budget and the quality of cabinets that fit within it will determine what material is cheaper in your specific kitchen remodel.

Both metal and wood cabinets come with upsides and downsides regarding cost, durability, style, and maintenance needs. Assess your priorities for function, aesthetics, and longevity to decide which is the better investment for your home.

Factors That Impact the Cost of Metal vs Wood Cabinets

Many variables beyond just the cabinet material affect the total installation cost. Here are some top factors to consider:

Quality of Construction

Higher quality cabinets last longer and command a higher price. Hallmarks of quality construction include:

• Thick, solid wood or high-gauge steel
• Reinforced cabinet box and face frame
• Dovetail joinery on drawers
• Soft-close doors and drawers
• Strong, durable finishes

These features minimize wear and tear over time.

Door Styles and Finishes

Elaborate door styles and finishes add cost in materials and labor. Options like:

• Inset doors (requiring precise sizing)
• Full overlay doors (more material usage)
• Distressed paints or glazes
• Custom finishes and colors

Simple shaker-style slab doors keep costs down.

Organizational Features and Accessories

Consider your must-have features vs. nice-to-have upgrades. Convenience options like:

• Roll-out trays and shelves
• Spice storage
• Waste bin cabinets
• Appliance garages
• Drawer dividers

Maximize usability without overspending.

Brand Reputation

Well-known brands demand a price premium for the reputation behind their products. Lesser known brands often provide similar quality for less.

Location

Material and labor costs vary regionally. Factors like:

• Shipping to remote areas
• Prevailing wage rates
• Raw material availability

Amount of Cabinets Needed

Economies of scale come into play. The more cabinets purchased, the lower the per unit price.

Larger or more cabinets than a typical kitchen requires will increase costs.

Tips for Choosing Affordable Cabinets

Follow these tips to find budget-friendly cabinets without sacrificing quality:

• Compare quotes: Get bids from 3+ cabinet suppliers to compare pricing.
• Know where to splurge: Invest in sturdy cabinet boxes and functional interior storage.
• Minimize custom changes: Stick with standard cabinet sizes and layouts when possible.
• Consider RTA cabinets: Ready-to-assemble cabinets cost 20-50% less with DIY installation.
• Shop warehouse stores: Home improvement stores offer exclusive budget-friendly brands.
• Time sales carefully: Look for seasonal sales, not those pressuring quick decisions.
• Set a realistic budget: Get quotes first so expectations match costs.
• Inspect carefully: Check finishes, joints, hardware, drawer alignment.

With smart shopping, it’s possible to get affordable kitchen cabinets whether you choose metal or wood. Carefully compare costs, construction, and features to find the best cabinets for your budget.

Are Metal or Wood Cabinets Better For Resale Value?

Many homeowners undertaking a kitchen remodel wonder whether metal or wood cabinets will add more resale value to their home.

The current housing market indicates wooden cabinets edge out metal when it comes to recouping your investment down the road.

Here are a few reasons why:

Wood Cabinets Align With Buyer Preferences

Surveys show most homebuyers favor the rich, warm aesthetic of wood cabinets. Given a choice between comparable homes, wood cabinets have more crowd appeal.

Wood Offers Classic, Timeless Look

Wood cabinets and their endless style options give a traditional vibe. Open concept kitchens with light wood cabinetry have enduring popularity.

Wood Can Be Refinished

Wood cabinets can be refinished and restained in sought-after colors if a buyer wants to change it up. Refacing metal cabinets is more limiting.

Custom Wood Commands Higher Prices

In higher end homes, custom wood cabinets with specialty finishes and features fetch top dollar over stock metal cabinets.

However, well-designed metal cabinets in good condition in more contemporary or industrial style kitchens do boost resale as well.

The premium for wood may shrink as metal cabinets increase in popularity and quality. But for now, wood remains more profitable when selling.

Are Metal or Wood Cabinets More Durable?

Metal and wood cabinets both provide long-lasting durability when properly constructed from quality materials. Here’s how they compare:

Metals Resist Dents and Scratches

Metal’s claim to durability fame is its resistance to dings, gouges and surface damage from impacts. Dropped cans or toys are no match for steel.

Wood Can Be Sanded and Refinished

While wood dents and scratches more easily upfront, it can be restored by sanding scuffs and applying new finish coats over its lifespan.

Moisture Resistant Properties

Metal cabinets better withstand exposure to moisture from spills, high humidity and leaks. Wood warps, swells and deteriorates over time if subjected to moisture.

Quality Joinery and Hardware

Dovetail joinery and sturdy hardware that withstands wear and tear are found more often in wood cabinets. Particleboard construction in lower budget metal and wood cabinets is less enduring.

Thicker Gauge = Stronger Steel

Higher quality metal cabinets use steel gauges of 18 to 22 for enhanced durability. Thinner gauge steel below 22 is more prone to warping or bending.

In the hands of reputable manufacturers, both materials are capable of providing 20+ years of sturdy service with proper care and maintenance. Weigh the pros and cons of each carefully as part of your cabinet selection.

Are Custom or Stock Cabinets More Cost Effective?

Custom and stock (prefabricated) cabinets each come with their pros and cons regarding cost effectiveness:

Custom Cabinets

Pros:

• Perfectly fit your space and layout
• Personalized style options
• High quality materials and construction
• Prestige of customized kitchen

Cons

• Much higher starting cost
• Long lead times (8-12+ weeks)
• Cannot return if unsatisfied
• Fewer cost-cutting opportunities

Stock Cabinets

Pros:

• 20-50% lower cost than custom
• Faster turnaround time
• Can browse in-store before ordering
• Return ability provides peace of mind

Cons:

• Limited sizes may not fit perfectly
• Fewer style and color options
• Cannot modify or customize
• Lower quality materials in some brands

Custom cabinets make sense if you have an unusual kitchen layout or prize a totally unique style. Stock cabinets are the more budget-friendly route for everyday kitchens.

Some best practices for keeping costs lower:

• Choose stock sizes whenever possible
• Use stock cabinet boxes with custom doors/faces
• Limit decorative touches to key focal areas
• Purchase during seasonal sales andCLEAR out

If your heart is set on custom cabinets, be prepared for sticker shock and a lengthy process. Otherwise quality stock cabinets can look custom with smart design choices.

Are Metal or Wood Cabinets Easier to Install?

When it comes to DIY cabinet installation, metal cabinets generally have the advantage as easier to install compared to wood.

Reasons Metal Cabinets Are Easier to Install

• Lightweight material is easy to lift and fasten
• Consistent sizing eliminates fitting issues
• Far less intricate trim and molding details
• Do not require as precise wall fastening for support
• Finishes are more resistant to scuffs and scratches

Where Wood Cabinets Get More Challenging

• Heavier weight makes positioning difficult
• Susceptible to job site nicks, gouges and other damage
• Precision required for cabinet face frame alignments
• Shims often needed for even spacing and plumb
• Multi-step finishing process after install

However, wood or metal cabinet installation may be beyond DIY skills. Professional expertise is recommended for:

• Knowledge of standards and building codes
• Proper structural reinforcement
• Ideal placement and sequencing
• Achieving flawless alignments
• Integrating appliances, lighting, counters

While metal cabinets themselves may install a bit easier, the overall kitchen remodel involves much more than just setting cabinets. Unless you are very experienced, complex new kitchen installs often fare better hiring pros.

Are Metal or Wood Cabinets Better For the Environment?

Both metal and wood kitchen cabinets come with certain environmental considerations from material sourcing, production, and end of life.

Environmental Benefits of Metal Cabinets

• Very recyclable and made from recycled content
• Manufacturing scrap can be reused
• Powder coat painting minimizes VOCs
• Non-porous and easily sanitized

Downsides of Metal Cabinets

• Raw material mining and smelting energy intensive
• Some finishes or labels use formaldehyde and other chemicals

Environmental Benefits of Wood Cabinets

• Renewable and biodegradable resource
• Responsible forestry management protects ecosystems
• Stores carbon and emits less emissions than steel production

Downsides of Wood Cabinets

• Unsustainable logging threatens rainforests
• Energy and chemical use in manufacturing
• Low reuse/recycling rates currently

Ideally look for kitchen cabinets made with:

• Recycled and non-toxic materials
• Sustainable forestry certification
• Energy-efficient manufacturing
• Low-VOC stains and finishes

With mindful design and material choices, both metal and wood cabinets can be eco-friendly options for green kitchen remodeling.

Are Metal or Wood Cabinets Better For High Moisture Areas?

Excessive moisture can wreak havoc on kitchen cabinets over time. Sources of moisture include leaky pipes, overflowing sinks, high humidity, and steam from cooking.

If subjected to routine high moisture, metal cabinets are the better choice thanks to these properties:

• Non-porous surfaces resist water damage
• Does not corrode, swell or deteriorate from moisture
• Baked-on powder coat paints withstand humidity well
• Steel construction inhibits mold or mildew growth
• Zinc coatings provide corrosion resistance

Wood cabinets are inherently more vulnerable in moist environments, requiring extra precautions:

• Sealants and finishes must be maintained to avoid warping
• Swelling or bubbling laminates are signs of excessive moisture
• Trapped moisture between cabinets risks mold and bacteria
• Exposed cabinet bottoms absorb ground moisture if not sealed

Proper kitchen design and ventilation keeps moisture at safe levels. But between metal vs wood, metal cabinets hold up far better under excess moisture conditions. Their non-porous construction keeps your cabinets protected.

What Are the Best Practices For Maintaining Metal or Wood Cabinets?

Regular maintenance is important for both cabinet materials to optimize their lifespan and appearance. Follow these best practices:

Metal Cabinet Maintenance Tips

• Wipe spills promptly to avoid chance of rusting
• Clean with mild soap and water, avoid abrasive products
• Reseal any chipped areas in finish with touch-up paint
• Tighten loose hinges, handles, or drawer glides as needed
• Use silicone-based polish/protectant to preserve luster
• Never let grease build up on surfaces or hardware

Wood Cabinet Maintenance Tips

• Clean spills and drips immediately to prevent stains and damage
• Use microfiber cloths and mild cleaners like dish soap
• Avoid excessive moisture and repair any leaks promptly
• Rese