Compare the highest-rated cabinet installers professionals in San Rafael, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly respected, family-owned and operated cabinetry studio specializing in custom design and high-end installation. They are known for their collaborative process, attention to detail, and use of quality materials. They offer full-service projects from initial concept to final installation.
A nationally recognized brand with a strong local showroom and installation team. They are experts in space optimization and offer a wide range of styles and finishes. While known for closets, their services extensively cover kitchen, bathroom, and built-in cabinetry with a focus on precision and premium hardware.
This provider offers a specialized and eco-friendly alternative to full replacement. They are experts in rejuvenating existing cabinets through professional refinishing, repainting, and refacing. This is a cost-effective option for homeowners who are happy with their cabinet layout but want a updated look.
** The cabinet installation market in San Rafael and the broader Marin County area is characterized by high demand for quality and customization, reflecting the affluence and older housing stock of the region. The competition is strong but segmented; there are a few high-end custom shops (like Marin Cabinets), national franchise providers offering systematized solutions (like California Closets), and specialized artisans focusing on restoration and refinishing (like The Refinishing Doctor). **Average Quality:** The market standard is high. Homeowners in this area expect exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials (e.g., solid wood, plywood boxes), and flawless finishing. The providers that thrive are those with proven portfolios and strong references. **Competition Level:** Moderate to high. While there are many general contractors and handymen who offer cabinet installation, the top-tier specialists are fewer in number and are often booked well in advance. Their reputation is their most valuable asset. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is at a premium compared to national averages. For a full kitchen cabinet replacement, homeowners should expect a significant investment. * **Semi-Custom Kitchen Installation:** $15,000 - $35,000+ * **Full Custom Kitchen Installation:** $40,000 - $80,000+ * **Cabinet Refacing/Refinishing:** $5,000 - $15,000 (a popular cost-saving alternative) * **Bathroom Vanity Installation:** $1,500 - $5,000+ (depending on vanity cost and plumbing complexity) It is highly recommended that homeowners verify a contractor's CSLB (Contractors State License Board) license for "C-6 Cabinet and Millwork" and obtain multiple detailed quotes before proceeding.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with San Rafael regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about cabinet installers services in San Rafael, California.
In San Rafael, the cost for professional cabinet installation typically ranges from $2,000 to $8,000+, depending heavily on the scope, cabinet quality, and any custom work. Regional labor costs in the Bay Area are higher than the national average, and prices can be influenced by the complexity of the job, such as handling older home layouts common in San Rafael neighborhoods. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes labor, materials, and any potential fees for permits or structural adjustments.
For a standard cabinet replacement where the layout isn't changing, a permit is usually not required in San Rafael. However, if your project involves moving plumbing, electrical, or altering walls, a permit from the City of San Rafael's Community Development Department may be necessary. A reputable local installer will know these regulations and will clearly communicate if permit procurement is their responsibility or yours, which is a key question to ask during consultations.
Marin's mild yet humid coastal climate means wood cabinets can subtly expand and contract. Choosing stable materials like quality plywood boxes and finished hardwoods (e.g., maple, cherry) is advisable over more reactive woods. For installation, while work can proceed year-round, the drier summer and early fall months are ideal, as lower humidity allows for optimal conditions for adhesives to cure and wood to acclimate to your home's interior environment.
Prioritize local providers with verifiable references and photos of completed projects in Marin County. Ensure they are properly licensed (California Contractors State License Board - CSLB), bonded, and insured. Given the prevalence of older homes in San Rafael, look for experience with challenging installations in non-standard spaces, such as dealing with unlevel floors or plaster walls, which is a common local concern.
For a standard kitchen, professional installation usually takes 2 to 5 days, assuming all cabinets are on-site and no major structural issues arise. In San Rafael, timelines can extend if unexpected challenges are found in older homes, like outdated plumbing or electrical that needs updating to meet current California code. A thorough pre-installation inspection by your installer is crucial for providing a realistic schedule and minimizing surprises.