Compare the highest-rated cabinet installers professionals in Mount Desert, Maine. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly respected, master-level custom cabinet and furniture shop located directly on Mount Desert Island. They are known for exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and bespoke design, catering to both new construction and high-end renovation projects. Their work is often featured in luxury homes and historic properties in the area.
A well-established, full-service woodworking company known for its professionalism and high-quality installations. They handle a wide range of projects from kitchen and bathroom cabinet installation to custom built-ins and commercial millwork. They are a reliable choice for both comprehensive custom work and high-quality pre-fabricated cabinet installation.
A larger-scale, professional millwork and cabinet shop located in Ellsworth, the primary commercial hub serving Mount Desert Island. They offer extensive services from design to installation and are equipped for large projects. They are a go-to provider for many contractors, builders, and homeowners on MDI seeking a blend of quality, efficiency, and a broad range of services.
The cabinet installers market serving Mount Desert, Maine, is characterized by high-quality, artisan-level craftsmanship, reflecting the area's affluent, seasonal, and historic nature. Due to the high demand for preservation and luxury home construction, the competition is among a small pool of highly skilled providers rather than a high volume of general contractors. * **Average Quality:** The average quality is exceptionally high. Providers are typically master carpenters or specialized woodshops, not general handymen. The expectation is for durable, beautiful, and often custom work that can withstand the coastal climate. * **Competition Level:** While there are not dozens of providers directly on the island, the competition among the established shops is strong. Reputation, portfolio, and personal referrals are the primary drivers of business. Lead times can be long, especially during the peak summer building season. * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is at a premium, commensurate with the skill level, material quality, and custom nature of the work. Homeowners should expect investment-level costs for cabinetry projects. Ballpark figures for a full custom kitchen installation can easily range from $25,000 to $75,000+, depending on size, materials, and complexity. Smaller projects like a built-in or vanity installation would start in the several thousand-dollar range.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Mount Desert regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about cabinet installers services in Mount Desert, Maine.
The high humidity and salt air in Mount Desert can cause wood to swell and metal hardware to corrode faster than inland. We strongly recommend using moisture-resistant cabinet materials like marine-grade plywood or high-quality plywood with a waterproof sealant, and specifying hardware with protective finishes (e.g., stainless steel or coated). Proper sealing and acclimating materials to your home's interior for several days before installation are critical steps to prevent warping.
From measurement to final installation, a typical project takes 6-10 weeks, with custom cabinets taking longer. Scheduling is highly seasonal; the summer months are extremely busy due to the tourist season and second-home owners, leading to longer wait times. For the best availability and to avoid contractor scheduling conflicts, we recommend planning renovations and installations for the late fall, winter, or early spring.
For a simple cabinet replacement, a permit is usually not required. However, if your installation is part of a larger kitchen remodel that involves moving plumbing, electrical, or load-bearing walls, you will likely need a building permit from the Mount Desert Town Office. It's always best to check with them or hire a licensed contractor familiar with local codes, especially for homes in the historic districts or near the shore where additional restrictions may apply.
Prioritize local contractors with verifiable references on MDI, as they understand the logistical challenges of island work (ferry schedules for materials, etc.) and the climate considerations. Ensure they are licensed and insured in Maine. Ask to see photos of completed projects and inquire specifically about their experience with humidity mitigation and working in older homes, which are common in the area.
It's very common to discover uneven floors and walls that are out of plumb in older Maine homes, which can complicate level installations. Experienced installers will use shimming and scribing techniques to ensure cabinets are level and flush despite an uneven substrate. Additionally, we often find outdated wiring or plumbing behind old cabinets, so budgeting a contingency (10-15%) for such unforeseen repairs is a prudent part of planning.