If you’re considering a cost-effective way to transform your kitchen, understanding the cost of sanding and staining kitchen cabinets in Wichita, KS is essential. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of costs.
Click to jump right in:
- What is the Cost of Sanding and Staining Kitchen Cabinets in Wichita, KS?
- Average Cost Per Square Foot
- Labor Cost to Stain Cabinets
- Cabinet Stain Materials Prices
- Comparing the Cost of Staining, Painting, and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
- Other Additional Costs for Kitchen Cabinet Staining
- DIY vs. Professional Cabinet Staining
- Factors Affecting the Cost of Sanding And Staining Kitchen Cabinets
- Tips for Cost Efficiency When Staining Kitchen Cabinets
If you have more questions, call (316) 800-6994.
Cost Summary Table: Sanding and Staining Kitchen Cabinets
Category | Cost Range | Details |
Total Project Cost | $1,500 – $4,000 | Varies by kitchen size, cabinet material, and prep work required. |
Per Square Foot Cost | $4 – $15 | Based on cabinet material, design complexity, and condition. |
Labor Costs | $800 – $5,000 | $30 – $75/hour depending on kitchen size (small, medium, large). |
Staining Materials | $100 – $300 | Includes wood stain, sealant, sandpaper, and brushes. |
Cabinet Repairs | $50 – $200 per cabinet | Costs for fixing cracks, panels, or structural issues. |
Hardware Replacement | $5 – $50 per piece | Optional upgrade for knobs, pulls, or hinges. |
Stripping Old Finishes | $3 – $7 per square foot | Needed for cabinets with existing paint or varnish. |
Protective Coatings | $30 – $50 per gallon | Sealants or polyurethane for durability and polish. |
Interior Cabinet Staining | $200 – $500 | Optional service for staining cabinet interiors. |
Custom Colors/Finishes | $50 – $200 extra | Specialty finishes like glazing or distressed effects. |
Professional Color Consultation | $100 – $300 (or included) | Assistance matching stain colors to your kitchen aesthetic. |
What is the Cost of Sanding and Staining Kitchen Cabinets in Wichita KS?
The cost of sanding and staining kitchen cabinets in Wichita, KS, typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on factors such as the size of the kitchen, the cabinet material, and the level of preparation required.
Smaller kitchens with fewer cabinets are on the lower end of the cost spectrum, while larger or custom cabinetry can raise costs.
Average Cost Per Square Foot
Sanding and staining cabinets are often calculated per square foot, averaging between $4 and $15 per square foot in Wichita, KS. The following factors influence this price:
- Cabinet material: Hardwood cabinets like oak or maple require more labor than softer materials.
- Cabinet design complexity: Intricate designs or raised panels demand extra sanding and staining time.
- Condition of the cabinets: Cabinets with peeling paint or heavy damage may require additional preparation, increasing the cost.

Labor Cost to Stain Cabinets
Labor typically constitutes a significant portion of the overall cost. Professional painters or finishers in Wichita, KS, charge between $30 and $75 per hour. The average labor costs for sanding and staining cabinets are:
- Small kitchens: $800–$1,500
- Medium kitchens: $1,500–$3,000
- Large kitchens: $3,000–$5,000
Labor costs may increase for tasks like removing and reinstalling cabinet doors, repairing damage, or applying a protective sealant.
Cabinet Stain Materials Prices
The cost of staining materials includes stains, sealants, and tools such as brushes and sandpaper. Here’s an overview:
- Wood stain: $20–$40 per quart (varies by brand and quality)
- Sealant or polyurethane finish: $30–$50 per gallon
- Sanding materials: $10–$30
- Miscellaneous supplies: $20–$50 (tape, drop cloths, brushes)
Material costs for a typical kitchen range from $100 to $300, depending on the stain type and cabinet size.
Comparing the Cost of Staining, Painting, and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
- Staining: Costs $1500–$4000. It is ideal for showcasing natural wood grain and adding rich tones.
- Painting: Costs $2000-–$6500 per square foot. Best for achieving a smooth, modern look with endless color options.
- Refinishing: Costs $1000–$4000. Involves removing the old finish and applying a new one, often blending staining and painting processes.
Staining is the most cost-effective choice for preserving wood grain, while painting offers greater versatility in color and texture.
Other Additional Costs for Kitchen Cabinet Staining
- Cabinet Repairs
- Cost: $50–$200 per cabinet
Damaged cabinets may need repairs before staining, such as fixing cracks, replacing panels, or reinforcing hardware.
- Hardware Replacement
- Cost: $5–$50 per piece
Upgrading knobs, pulls, or hinges can add to the final cost but significantly enhance the cabinet’s appearance.
- Stripping Old Finishes
- Cost: $3–$7 per square foot
Cabinets with old paint or varnish may require chemical stripping or extensive sanding, increasing labor costs.
- Protective Coatings
- Cost: $30–$50 per gallon
Applying polyurethane or lacquer after staining adds durability and a polished look, extending the cabinet’s lifespan.
- Removal and Reinstallation
- Cost: $100–$500
Removing and reinstalling cabinet doors and hardware for off-site staining may involve extra labor charges.
- Cleaning and Degreasing
- Cost: $50–$150
Heavily soiled cabinets may need professional cleaning to ensure proper stain application.
- Custom Colors or Specialty Finishes
- Cost: $50–$200 extra
Specialty stains, like distressed or glazed finishes, require additional time and expertise, increasing overall costs.
- Interior Staining
- Cost: $200–$500
If you want the inside of your cabinets stained, it will add to the project scope and cost.
- Additional Labor for Large Kitchens
- Cost: $200–$1,000 extra
For larger kitchens with many cabinets, expect higher labor costs due to increased time and effort.
- Professional Color Consultation
- Cost: $100–$300 (often included in premium services)
Hiring a color consultant to match stains to your kitchen’s aesthetic may be an additional expense.
DIY vs. Professional Cabinet Staining
DIY Cabinet Staining
- Pros:
- Lower cost: Materials-only expenses are around $200–$400.
- Flexible timeline.
- Cons:
- Labor-intensive and time-consuming.
- Requires expertise to avoid uneven staining or damage.
- Potential for higher long-term costs if mistakes require professional corrections.
Professional Cabinet Staining
- Pros:
- High-quality results with consistent finishes.
- Time-efficient and hassle-free.
- Professionals handle preparation and cleanup.
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to DIY.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Sanding And Staining Kitchen Cabinets
- Size and Layout of Cabinets
- More cabinets or larger kitchens increase both material and labor costs.
- Cabinet Condition
- Cabinets with damage or existing finishes may require extensive prep work, increasing costs.
- Type of Stain
- Oil-based stains are durable but costlier than water-based options.
- Protective Coatings
- Adding a sealant or polyurethane finish improves durability but adds to the total cost.
- Customization
- Unique colors, glazes, or distressed finishes may incur additional expenses.
- Local Labor Rates
- Labor costs in Wichita, KS, are relatively affordable compared to larger cities, keeping overall prices competitive.
Cost Efficiency Tips When Staining Kitchen Cabinets
- Refinish Instead of Replacing
Opt for staining and refinishing rather than replacing cabinets entirely. This can save thousands of dollars while achieving a fresh, updated look. - DIY Small Areas
If you’re confident in your skills, tackle less visible areas (like inside shelves) and leave the exterior surfaces to professionals. - Choose Affordable Stains
Water-based stains are often cheaper and easier to work with than oil-based options, providing a durable finish at a lower cost. - Schedule During Off-Peak Seasons
Book your project during slower months, such as late fall or winter, when contractors may offer discounts. - Bundle Services
Combine cabinet staining with other painting or refinishing projects in your home to save on overall labor costs. - Prep the Cabinets Yourself
Remove cabinet doors, clean surfaces, and strip old finishes before hiring professionals. This can reduce labor charges. - Reuse Hardware
Instead of replacing cabinet knobs and pulls, clean and polish the existing hardware to save on replacement costs. - Get Multiple Quotes
Request estimates from several local contractors in Wichita, KS, to compare prices and find the best value. - Consider Partial Staining
If the budget is tight, stain only high-visibility cabinets and use less costly methods for less prominent areas. - Choose a Durable Finish
Invest in a protective sealant to extend the life of the stain and minimize future maintenance costs. - Maintain Regularly
Clean and maintain cabinets routinely to prevent damage and extend the time between refinishing projects.
Roll Call Painting Offers Kitchen Cabinet Staining in Wichita KS
Transform your kitchen with expert cabinet staining from Roll Call Painting. Our professional team specializes in sanding and staining kitchen cabinets to enhance their beauty and durability. This cost-effective solution refreshes your kitchen’s appearance without the expense of a full remodel.
We use high-quality stains and finishes to protect against daily wear, moisture, and heat, ensuring long-lasting results. With free in-person estimates, a 3-year warranty, and a satisfaction guarantee, we make it easy to upgrade your space.
Contact Roll Call Painting today at (316) 800-6994 to schedule your cabinet staining.
FAQs
How much does it cost to sand and stain cabinets?
The cost to sand and stain cabinets ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, or $4 to $15 per square foot, depending on the size, cabinet material, and level of preparation required.
Is it cheaper to refinish or replace kitchen cabinets?
Refinishing cabinets is significantly cheaper than replacing them. Refinishing typically costs $1,500 to $5,000, while cabinet replacement can cost $5,000 to $15,000 or more.
Is it cheaper to stain or paint kitchen cabinets?
Staining cabinets is generally cheaper than painting, depending on materials and labor.
How long does it take to sand and stain kitchen cabinets?
Sanding and staining kitchen cabinets typically take 3 to 5 days, depending on the size of the kitchen, cabinet complexity, and drying times.
Do stained cabinets last longer than painted?
Stained cabinets often last longer because the stain penetrates the wood, highlighting its natural grain and reducing visible wear over time. Paint may chip or peel more easily.
Do you stain the inside of kitchen cabinets?
Staining the inside of kitchen cabinets is optional. Most professionals only stain visible surfaces unless the client specifically requests interior staining.
Can all cabinets be re-stained?
Not all cabinets can be re-stained. Cabinets made of solid wood are ideal for restaining, but those with laminate or veneers may not absorb stain evenly and may require refinishing or painting instead.