Measuring cabinets per linear foot is a common method used to estimate costs and plan kitchen or other cabinet projects. It provides a standardized way to quantify the length of cabinetry along a wall or series of walls.
To measure cabinets per linear foot, you determine the total length the cabinets occupy along a wall.
What is Linear Footage?
Linear footage simply refers to a measurement of length in feet. When applied to cabinets, it represents the total length of the wall space covered by cabinets, regardless of their height, depth, or internal features. It's a unit of length, not area or volume.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Cabinet Linear Footage
Measuring for linear footage is a straightforward process that involves measuring the length of each section of cabinetry and totaling the results.
Here are the steps:
- Identify the Cabinet Runs: Determine which wall sections or islands will have cabinets.
- Measure Each Section: Use a tape measure to measure the length of each continuous run of cabinets along the wall. Measure from one end of the cabinet run to the other. Include the length of all base cabinets, wall cabinets, and any tall cabinets (like pantry cabinets) along their width dimension facing out.
- Record Measurements: Write down the length of each section clearly, typically in inches.
- Summarize Your Measurements: After measuring each section, add up the total inches. This gives you the cumulative length of all your cabinet sections in inches.
- Convert to Linear Feet: Divide this sum by 12 to convert it into feet, providing you with the total linear footage of your kitchen cabinetry.
Example Calculation
Let's say you have three sections of cabinets along different walls:
- Section 1: 72 inches long
- Section 2: 96 inches long
- Section 3: 36 inches long
Add up the total inches: 72 + 96 + 36 = 204 inches
Divide the sum by 12 to convert to feet: 204 inches / 12 inches/foot = 17 linear feet
Your total linear footage is 17 linear feet.
Why Measure in Linear Feet?
Linear footage is a widely used unit in the cabinet industry, particularly for preliminary cost estimations.
Here's why it's important:
- Simplified Pricing: Many cabinet manufacturers or suppliers provide base pricing estimates based on linear foot. This allows for quick comparison between different cabinet styles or suppliers based on the required length.
- Layout Planning: It helps in visualizing how much wall space is being utilized by cabinetry.
- Material Estimation: While detailed material estimates require more than just linear footage, this initial measurement is a critical starting point.
Keep in mind that linear foot pricing is often a rough estimate. The final cost of cabinets will depend on many factors, including:
- Cabinet material and finish
- Door style
- Cabinet construction method (e.g., stock, semi-custom, custom)
- Features like drawers, pull-outs, and accessories
- Installation costs
Understanding how to calculate linear footage is a fundamental first step in any cabinet project, helping you communicate effectively with professionals and budget appropriately.
