Frequently asked questions
Cost, timelines, warranty, materials and how to get started — the twelve questions we answer most often on the phone.
How much does custom cabinetry cost in Charlotte?
Most of our kitchens land between $24,000 and $68,000 installed, depending on linear footage, species and door style. Built-in walls typically run $4,800 to $16,000, and bath vanities $2,900 to $9,500. Every quote is itemized so you can see exactly what a change would cost.
Is the estimate really free?
Yes. The consultation, measure, drawings and written quote cost nothing and carry no obligation, anywhere within 45 miles of our Charlotte shop. The drawings are yours to keep.
How long will my project take?
From signed drawings, plan on 4–9 weeks in the shop plus one install week. Kitchens sit at the long end, vanities and mudrooms at the short end. We commit to an install week in writing before you pay a deposit.
Do you install, or just build?
We install with our own crew. Nothing is handed to a subcontracted installer, which is why the person scribing your unit knows how it was assembled.
Can you match the trim in my older home?
Usually. For pre-1940 houses in Dilworth, Elizabeth and Myers Park we take a profile off an existing piece and grind knives to match. It adds a small setup charge and about a week.
What species and finishes do you offer?
Painted work is usually solid poplar with a catalyzed conversion varnish. Stained and clear work is most often white oak, walnut, cherry or maple with a low-VOC waterborne topcoat. We keep sample doors in the shop.
Do you do refacing instead of full replacement?
Yes, when the boxes are structurally sound. New doors, drawer fronts and hardware with the frames sprayed on site runs about 40% of new cabinetry.
What is your warranty?
Twelve months on workmanship, including one free adjustment visit. Hardware carries the manufacturer's warranty — Blum runners and hinges are covered for the life of the product. Full detail is on our warranty page.
What is the payment schedule?
40% deposit at signed drawings, 40% when the boxes are built, 20% after the punch list is cleared. We never ask for payment ahead of the work it covers.
Do you work with designers and builders?
Roughly a third of our year is trade work. We supply PDF and DWG drawings, hold pricing 45 days and offer net-15 terms after a first completed project.
Which areas do you serve?
Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, plus Matthews, Mint Hill, Indian Trail, Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson, Concord, Gastonia and Rock Hill, SC.
How do I get started?
Call 828-202-0712 during shop hours or send the form on our contact page with a few photos and rough dimensions. We reply to every enquiry within one business day.
Still have a question? Call 828-202-0712 or email service@lukaskohler.com — a person answers, not a queue.
Looking after finished millwork
Cleaning
A damp cloth and a drop of mild dish soap. No ammonia, no bleach, no "wood polish" with silicone — it contaminates the surface if we ever need to touch it up.
Humidity
Keep the house between 35% and 55% relative humidity. Solid wood moves with the seasons; panels are built to float, but extremes still show at the joints.
Hardware
Soft-close runners occasionally need a quarter-turn adjustment. We will show you at the walkthrough, or we will come do it in the first year.
Spills and steam
Wipe standing water quickly, especially at sink fronts, and avoid pointing a steam appliance directly at a door edge.