how do you calculate linear feet for kitchen cabinets
Jun 20, 2025
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To calculate linear feet (LF) for kitchen cabinets, follow this professional step-by-step method, designed for accurate measurements and cost estimation. The process focuses on base cabinet runs only, as upper cabinets are typically priced separately.
📏 Step-by-Step Calculation Guide
Measure Each Wall Segment
Use a tape measure to record the total length (in inches) of each wall where base cabinets will be installed.
Exclude appliances: Subtract spaces for stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, or other non-cabinet areas.
Example: A wall segment of 120 inches with a 30-inch stove → 90 inches (120 – 30).
Convert Inches to Linear Feet
Divide each segment's length by 12:
Example: 90 inches ÷ 12 = 7.5 LF.
Sum All Wall Segments
Add the linear footage of all base cabinet runs, including islands or peninsulas.Example Layout:
| Wall Segment | Length (LF) |
|---|---|
| Left Wall | 7.5 LF |
| Back Wall | 10 LF |
| Right Wall | 6 LF |
| Island | 4 LF |
| Total | 27.5 LF |
Account for Corners
Count corner cabinets only once (e.g., a 90° corner cabinet is part of one wall segment).
💰 Cost Estimation Based on Linear Feet
Once you have the total LF, multiply it by the price per linear foot (varies by material and brand):
| Cabinet Tier | Price per LF | Cost for 27.5 LF |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | 100–300 | 2,750–8,250 |
| Mid-Range | 300–800 | 8,250–22,000 |
| High-End | 800–1,500+ | 22,000–41,250+ |
💡 Note: Prices typically cover semi-custom base cabinets including doors, drawers, and standard hardware. Upper cabinets, accessories (e.g., pull-out trays), and installation are usually extra.
🚫 What to Exclude in Calculations
Upper cabinets: Track these separately for quoting.
Appliances: Stoves, fridges, sinks, and dishwashers.
Backsplashes or countertops: These require square footage measurements.
✅ Pro Tips for Accuracy
Measure twice: Verify wall lengths before subtracting appliances.
Use manufacturer templates: Some brands provide digital tools for layout validation.
Consult suppliers: Confirm if islands/peninsulas are charged at 100% LF (standard) or a reduced rate.
Standard reference: A "10x10 kitchen" (industry benchmark) equals 20 LF of base cabinets.
📐 Quick Formula:
Total LF = [(Wall 1 Length in Inches – Appliance Widths) + ... + Island Lengths] ÷ 12
This method ensures precise budgeting and simplifies comparisons between cabinet suppliers. For countertops, convert LF to square footage using material width, but cabinets rely solely on linear runs.