As a licensed building contractor specializing in kitchen remodels and cabinet installation in South Tampa, we recently tackled our first IKEA kitchen cabinet installation. While we typically work with custom cabinetry, this project required us to match existing upper cabinets after a homeowner experienced flood damage in Tampa Bay.

Since many homeowners consider IKEA cabinets for their affordability and modern styles, we wanted to share our professional insights—both the pros and cons—of installing these cabinets. If you're considering an IKEA kitchen remodel or cabinet replacement, here’s what you should know.

The Positives: What We Liked About IKEA Cabinets

✅ Fast Ordering and Delivery – IKEA’s ordering process is straightforward, and we were impressed by the quick delivery. This is a big plus if you're looking for a quick kitchen remodel.

✅ Easier Than Expected Assembly – While IKEA is known for flat-pack furniture, we found the cabinet assembly process surprisingly manageable. It does take time, but the instructions are clear.

✅ Stylish & Modern Finishes – The door and drawer fronts had a sleek, stylish finish. IKEA offers a variety of cabinet hardware and modern designs, making it a great option for those who want a fresh, updated look without breaking the bank.

✅ Adjustable Base Cabinet Feet – The adjustable cabinet feet were helpful for getting base cabinets level on uneven floors, which is a common issue in older South Tampa homes.

The Negatives: Challenges With IKEA Cabinet Installation

❌ Cabinet Box Construction Quality – While the cabinet doors and fronts looked great, the actual box construction wasn’t as sturdy as we’d prefer. The materials used don’t compare to custom-built cabinets or semi-custom cabinet options.

❌ Rail Installation Complications – IKEA cabinets mount on a metal rail system, which might be great for DIYers, but from a professional cabinet installation perspective, it has drawbacks. Many homes in South Tampa and throughout Tampa Bay have uneven or wavy walls, making it tricky to achieve perfectly plum and level cabinets using the rail system.

❌ Difficult Shimming for Leveling – Because the rail system limits where you can shim, it was more challenging to make precise adjustments compared to traditional cabinet installation methods.

❌ Fragile Adjustable Feet – While we liked the adjustable feet on the base cabinets, they sometimes fell out or broke during installation, making leveling more frustrating than it needed to be.

If you need affordable kitchen cabinets for a cabinet replacement or remodeling project, IKEA is a solid option—especially if you love modern designs and are okay with some trade-offs in construction quality. However, for homeowners looking for long-lasting durability or a truly custom kitchen remodel, investing in higher-quality cabinetry may be a better choice.

As a licensed remodeling contractor, we help homeowners choose the best cabinet installation solutions based on their budget and long-term goals. Whether you're dealing with flood damage in Tampa Bay, updating an outdated kitchen, or starting a full kitchen renovation, we can guide you through the process.

Need Help With Kitchen Remodeling or Cabinet Installation in South Tampa?

If you're considering a kitchen remodel, need cabinet replacement, or are dealing with flood damage repairs, our team at Remodel Reble is here to help. We specialize in custom cabinet installation, kitchen renovations, and whole-home remodeling projects.

📞 Contact us today for a consultation!

📍 Serving South Tampa, Tampa Bay, and surrounding areas.