The Best Materials for Lining Kitchen Cabinets on a Budget
Giving your kitchen a mini makeover by lining the cabinets is an easy and affordable way to transform the space. With a variety of budget-friendly materials to choose from, you can reinvigorate the look of your kitchen without a full remodel.
Key Factors to Consider
When researching lining materials, keep the following criteria in mind:
- Appearance - Choose glossy or matte finishes and patterns to match your style
- Cost - Compare prices to find affordable solutions
- Installation - Opt for easy DIY application if you'll do it yourself
- Durability - Select materials that will hold up to daily use
- Removability - Decide if you want permanent or temporary options
Popular Looks and Finishes
From sleek solid colors to stylish wood grains, today's lining materials offer tons of options to fit your kitchen's aesthetic. Consider choices like:
- Modern solids - Glossy vinyls and laminates in bold colors
- Classic patterns - Checkered or floral contact paper or wallpaper
- Wood veneers - Realistic wood grain patterns
- Unique textures - Metallic contact papers or textured laminates
Budget Comparison
Here's how some top materials generally compare cost-wise from lowest to highest:
- Contact paper - $0.20-$5 per sq. ft.
- Removable wallpaper - $1-$12 per roll
- Laminate sheets - $2-$8 per sq. ft.
- Wood veneer - $3-$12 per sq. ft.
- Thermofoil - $3-$10 per sq. ft.
- Vinyl tiles - $3-$10 per sq. ft.
Keep reading for more details on affordable options under $5 per square foot.
Best Budget-Friendly Liners
Contact Paper
Self-adhesive contact paper offers an easy and inexpensive way to line cabinets. Many feature a peel-and-stick backing so they go on quickly without messy glue.
Pros:
- Cheap - Often under $1 per square foot
- Huge range of colors, textures, and patterns
- Easy "peel and stick" application
- Temporary; can remove easily
Cons:
- Less durable than some materials
- Could peel off over time
- Surface needs to be cleaned and smoothed
Quality contact paper can last 1-5 years on cabinets when properly installed. Look for vinyl papers rather than lower-quality paper-based versions.
Removable Wallpaper
Specialty wallpaper designed for cabinets gives you tons of prints and textures. Remove it whenever you want to change up the look.
Pros:
- Fun prints and colors
- Easily switched out
- Medium durability of 2-5 years
Cons:
- Surface prep required
- More difficult installation than contact paper
- Prone to peeling or bubbling if applied incorrectly
Use wallpaper adhesive like starch paste for best results. Carefully measure cabinets and cut wallpaper to fit for a seamless look.
Laminate Sheets
For a more permanent solution, laminate sheets provide an affordable way to resurface cabinets.
Pros:
- Durable; lasts 5-10 years
- Resists scratches, stains, and moisture
- Many wood grain and solid color options
Cons:
- Professional installation recommended
- Permanent; difficult to remove
- Higher upfront cost than contact paper
Expect to spend around $250-500 for materials to laminate an average-sized kitchen. The laminate sheets can be applied over existing cabinet surfaces.
Tips for Application
Use these tips to get professional-looking results:
- Clean cabinets thoroughly and sand surfaces
- Measure carefully to cut pieces to fit
- Apply adhesive smoothly; wipe away excess
- Use roller to apply even pressure
- Take doors off cabinets to line individually
- Reattach hardware using caulk to fill gaps
Patience and attention to detail will help you achieve a seamless finish. Take your time measuring, cutting, and installing cabinet liners.
Adding new liner materials gives cabinets an instant facelift. The transformation can rejuvenate a kitchen's whole aesthetic.
Consider trying: - A bold solid color vinyl for contemporary flair - Wood grain contact paper for a natural look - Removable floral wallpaper for a charming cottage feel
The design options are endless! With a little time and effort, you can change the look of your kitchen cabinets without the big expense of full replacement.