how to calculate linear feet for kitchen cabinets
May 17, 2025
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Calculating linear feet (LF) for kitchen cabinets helps estimate costs and material needs. Here's how to do it step-by-step:
1. Measure Each Wall Section
Base Cabinets: Measure the total length (in inches) of each wall where cabinets will be installed.
Exclude Appliances: Subtract spaces for the stove, refrigerator, or dishwasher.
Example:
Wall length: 120 inches (10 feet).
Subtract 30-inch stove: 120 – 30 = 90 inches (7.5 LF).
2. Convert Inches to Feet
Divide total inches by 12.
Example:
90 inches ÷ 12 = 7.5 linear feet for that wall.
3. Add All Sections Together
Total LF = Sum of all cabinet runs (base cabinets only).
Example:
| Wall Section | Length (LF) |
|---|---|
| Left Wall | 7.5 LF |
| Back Wall | 10 LF |
| Right Wall | 6 LF |
| Total | 23.5 LF |
4. Include Islands/Peninsulas
Measure their length and add to the total.
Example: A 4-foot island adds 4 LF → 27.5 LF total.
Key Notes
Upper Cabinets: Typically priced separately (not included in base cabinet LF).
Pricing: Cabinets cost 100–100–100–1,500+ per linear foot (varies by material, style, and brand).
Corners: Count only once (e.g., a 90° corner cabinet is part of one wall).
Example Calculation for a 10x10 Kitchen
Base Cabinets: 20 LF total.
Cost Estimate:
Budget (200/LF):∗∗20LF×200/LF): **20 LF × 200/LF):∗∗20LF×200 = $4,000**.
Mid-Range (500/LF):∗∗20LF×500/LF): **20 LF × 500/LF):∗∗20LF×500 = $10,000**.
Quick Formula
Total Linear Feet = (Sum of all cabinet wall lengths in inches – appliance gaps) ÷ 12
Why Use Linear Feet?
Simplifies pricing comparisons between suppliers.
Helps estimate materials (e.g., countertops are priced per LF).
For accuracy, confirm pricing with your cabinet supplier! 📏🏡