Use this comprehensive cabinet removal cost calculator to estimate the total expenses for demolishing and disposing of your old kitchen or bathroom cabinetry. We account for labor time, hourly rates, and fixed disposal charges.
Cabinet Removal Cost Calculator
Estimated Total Removal Cost:
Cabinet Removal Cost Formula:
Source 1 (HomeAdvisor) | Source 2 (Thumbtack)
Variables:
- Total Linear Feet of Cabinets (Lft): The total measured length of all cabinets and counter space to be removed.
- Time per Linear Foot (Hours/Lft): The professional estimate of how long it takes to safely remove one linear foot of cabinetry. This varies by cabinet type (e.g., framed vs. frameless).
- Hourly Labor Rate ($/Hour): The rate charged by the contractor or demolition crew for their time.
- Disposal Fee (Flat Cost): A fixed charge for renting a dumpster or hauling the debris to a local landfill/recycling center.
What is Cabinet Removal Cost Calculator?
The Cabinet Removal Cost Calculator is an essential online tool designed to provide homeowners and contractors with a rapid, accurate estimate of demolition expenses. Unlike a general remodel budget, this calculator focuses specifically on the labor and disposal required to safely detach and remove old kitchen, utility, or bathroom cabinets.
The primary drivers of the removal cost are labor time and the associated hourly rate. By breaking down the removal process into linear feet, which is a standard industry measurement, the calculator provides a practical model for predicting man-hours. It helps users budget for the demolition phase accurately, minimizing unexpected costs before installation of new cabinets begins.
How to Calculate Cabinet Removal Cost (Example):
- Determine Linear Feet (Lft): Measure the total length of the cabinets. Example: A kitchen has 40 Lft of cabinets.
- Estimate Labor Time (Time/Lft): The crew estimates 0.3 hours per linear foot for removal. (40 Lft × 0.3 Hrs/Lft = 12 total labor hours).
- Apply Hourly Rate ($/Hour): The contractor charges $65 per hour. (12 hours × $65/Hour = $780 labor cost).
- Add Disposal Fee: The dumpster rental and hauling fee is a flat $200.
- Calculate Total Cost: $780 (Labor) + $200 (Disposal) = $980.
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- Kitchen Remodel Budget Calculator
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Does this cost include cabinet disposal?
A: Yes, the calculator includes a dedicated input for the flat Disposal Fee, which covers costs like dumpster rental, hauling, and tipping fees at the landfill. If you are handling disposal yourself, you can enter $0.
Q: Why is the cost based on Linear Feet?
A: Linear footage is the industry standard for measuring cabinets and counter space. It provides a reliable metric that directly correlates with the amount of material that needs to be detached, handled, and hauled away.
Q: How long does cabinet removal typically take?
A: For an average-sized kitchen, removal often takes between 4 to 8 hours (half to a full day) for a standard crew, depending on whether the cabinets are screwed, glued, or heavily affixed to the wall.
Q: Are there ways to lower the cabinet removal cost?
A: You can significantly lower the cost by performing the demolition yourself (DIY removal) or by finding an organization that accepts cabinet donations, which may offset some hauling fees.