Many homeowners face the daunting task of deciding on new kitchen cabinets. But before you decide, it’s important to understand how long your investment will last. Kitchen cabinets may be expensive pieces of furniture, but they do not last forever.
In this blog post, we’ll examine the factors determining how long kitchen cabinets will last and why it’s important to consider the kitchen cabinets’ depreciation life over time when purchasing. We’ll also provide useful tips for caring for your cabinets so they can stay in tip-top shape for years to come.
What Is Kitchen Cabinets’ Depreciation Life?
On average, kitchen cabinets have a depreciation life of 10-20 years. However, a few key factors will affect how long your kitchen cabinets last and how quickly they depreciate over time.
The first is the type of material your cabinets are made from. Solid wood cabinets will last the longest, while particle board or laminate cabinets will not last as long.
The second factor is the quality of craftsmanship. Cabinets that are well-made and have high-quality hardware will last longer than those that are cheaply made.
Finally, the way you care for your cabinets will also affect their lifespan. Regular cleaning and polishing will help keep them looking new for longer while neglecting them will cause them to degrade more quicker.
If you take good care of your cabinets and they are made from high-quality materials, they could last much longer than 20 years. Conversely, if you neglect your cabinets or they are made from lower-quality materials, they may only last ten years or less.
Rental Property Appliance Depreciation
As your appliances age, their value depreciates. This is especially true for rental property appliances, which see a lot of wear and tear. Over time, the cabinets, countertops, and appliances in your rental property will start to show their age.
Here’s a look at how long some common kitchen cabinets last and how much their value depreciates over time:
- Cabinets: Kitchen cabinets typically last between 15 and 20 years. However, their value depreciates after just a few years of use. By the 10-year mark, most cabinets are worth only half of their original value.
- Countertops: Countertops also have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. However, like cabinets, they lose their value soon after being installed. After ten years of use, most countertops are worth only about 60% of their original price.
- Appliances: Appliances have a shorter lifespan than cabinets or countertops. Most refrigerators last between 10 and 15 years, while dishwashers and ovens have a lifespan of about 12 years each. As with cabinets and countertops, appliance values depreciate rapidly; after just five years of use, most appliances are worth only 50% of their original purchase price.
Rental Property Flooring Depreciation
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, there are a few different options for flooring. You can choose from hardwood, laminate, tile, or even concrete. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, but one thing they all have in common is that they will eventually start to show their age.
- Hardwood floors are classic and timeless, but they can be expensive to install and maintain.
- Laminate floors are more affordable and easier to care for, but they can’t be refinished as hardwood floors can.
- Tile floors are durable and easy to clean but can be cold and unforgiving.
- Concrete floors are trendy and unique but require regular sealing and can be difficult to repair if damaged.
No matter what type of flooring you choose for your rental property, it’s important to remember that it will eventually start to show its age. To help extend the life of your floors (and save you money in the long run), be sure to perform regular maintenance such as sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming. And if you do damage your flooring, repair it as soon as possible to avoid further damage down the road.
Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets are one of the most important pieces of furniture in a kitchen. They not only provide storage space for dishes, cookware, and food but also serve as a decorative element in the kitchen. The lifespan of kitchen cabinets can be affected by many factors, including the material they are made of, the finish on the cabinets, how well they are maintained, and how often they are used.
The most common type of kitchen cabinet is made of wood. Wood cabinets can last for many years if they are well-made and well-cared for. However, wood is susceptible to damage from water, heat, and scratches. Over time, wood cabinets may start to show signs of wear and tear.
Another factor that can affect kitchen cabinets’ lifespan is the cabinets’ finish. Painted or stained finishes can chip or fade over time. If the finish on your cabinets is beginning to show wear, you may want to consider repainting or re-staining them to give them a fresh look.
Finally, the amount of use that your cabinets get will also affect their lifespan. If you cook often and have many people in and out of the kitchen, your cabinets may need to be replaced more often than if they are used less frequently.
Maintenance Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Cabinetry
It is important to note that all cabinetry will show some wear and tear over time. However, there are ways to prolong the life of your cabinetry and keep them looking new for as long as possible. Below are some maintenance tips for prolonging the life of your cabinetry:
- Wipe down your cabinets on a regular basis with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dirt or grime that can build up over time.
- Avoid using harsh cleaning products on your cabinets, as this can damage the finish. Instead, stick to mild soaps and cleaners.
- Make sure to check for any loose hardware and tighten it as needed regularly. This will help to prevent any cabinet doors from coming off their hinges.
- Be careful when placing hot items on cabinet surfaces. Use trivets or mats to protect the finish from heat damage.
Signs that It’s Time to Replace Your Kitchen Cabinets
Here are some signs that it might be time to replace your kitchen cabinets:
The finish is peeling or cracking
If you notice that the finish on your cabinets is starting to peel or crack, it’s definitely time for a replacement. This is usually a sign that the cabinets are made of lower-quality materials and won’t last much longer.
The doors are warped or don’t close properly
If you notice that your cabinet doors are warping or don’t close properly, it’s also time for a replacement. This is usually due to humidity changes, which can cause the wood to expand and contract. Warped doors can also be a safety hazard as they can easily come open and cause items to fall out.
The hardware is dated or broken
If your cabinet hardware is starting to look dated or is broken, it might be time for an update. New hardware can completely change the look of your cabinets and give them a fresh new look. Plus, it’s an easy and relatively inexpensive way to update your kitchen without having to replace the entire cabinetry.
Replacing vs. Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
If you’re considering replacing or refinishing your kitchen cabinets, it’s important to understand the difference between the two options.
Replacing your cabinets involves completely removing your old cabinets and installing new ones in their place. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, but it may be necessary if your cabinets are severely damaged or outdated.
Refinishing your cabinets, on the other hand, involves sanding down and painting or staining your existing cabinets. This is a less expensive and invasive option but may not provide the same results as replacing your cabinets.
When deciding whether to replace or refinish your kitchen cabinets, consider the condition of your existing cabinets and your budget.
Cost Comparison between Replacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
The average kitchen remodels costs about $20,000, according to HomeAdvisor. If your cabinets are in good shape, refinishing them could cost as little as $6,000. Replacing them would cost more than double that.
It’s important to factor in the age of your cabinets when making your decision. If they’re more than 20 years old, it might be time for a replacement. Cabinets generally last about 30 years, so if yours are approaching that age, you might want to start planning for a future remodel.
Age isn’t the only factor to consider when deciding whether to replace or refinish your cabinets. The condition of your cabinets is also important. If they’re starting to show signs of wear and tear, such as peeling paint or warped doors, it might be time for a replacement.
If you’re unsure whether to replace or refinish your cabinets, consulting with a professional is always a good idea. They can help you assess the condition of your cabinets and make a recommendation based on their expertise.
Alternatives to Replacing Your Kitchen Cabinets
There are a few alternatives to simply replacing your kitchen cabinets when they start to show signs of wear and tear. One option is to refinish your existing cabinets simply. This involves sanding down the cabinet doors and either painting or staining them.
You can also replace just the cabinet doors, which is less expensive than a full replacement and will give your kitchen a fresh new look.
Finally, you could add new hardware to your cabinets, such as new handles or knobs, to give them an updated look without replacing the entire unit.
Conclusion
Kitchen cabinetry is an essential part of any kitchen, and it can be expensive to replace, so you want to ensure that your cabinets last as long as possible. While the lifespan of kitchen cabinets will depend on how well they are cared for, they should generally last between 10-20 years.
To ensure a longer life span, performing regular maintenance and repairing any damage quickly is important. Investing in quality materials and taking proper care of your kitchen cabinets will lead to greater longevity and keep them looking great for many years ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the life expectancy of kitchen cabinets?
On average, wood kitchen cabinets can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years. If you have high-quality cabinets that are made from solid hardwoods and feature intricate details and construction, they will likely last on the upper end of that range. Cheaper cabinets made from particle board or MDF will have a shorter lifespan, typically around ten years.
What kind of kitchen cabinets lasts the longest?
In general, taking good care of your cabinets will help them last longer. Cabinets that are well-maintained and regularly cleaned and polished will last longer than those that are neglected. So, when it comes to finding kitchen cabinets that will last the longest, look for those made with high-quality materials and construction, that are well cared for, and that have high-quality hardware. These features will help extend your cabinets’ life and keep them looking new for years to come.
What is the depreciable life of a kitchen remodel?
The depreciable life of a kitchen remodel can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the materials used and the amount of wear and tear the cabinets endure. However, most experts agree that the average depreciable life for kitchen cabinets is between 15 and 20 years.
Are kitchen cabinets eligible for bonus depreciation?
Yes, kitchen cabinets are eligible for bonus depreciation. The deduction amount is based on the cost of the cabinets and how long they are expected to last. The deduction is taken in the year the cabinets are installed.
How long does it take to depreciate granite countertops?
Due to their durability and aesthetic appeal, granite countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners. However, like all materials, they will eventually depreciate over time. The depreciation rate will vary depending on the quality of the granite and how well it is cared for. Generally speaking, granite countertops can last over 20 years before showing signs of wear and tear.