Discover The Secrets To Buying Kitchen Cabinets To Go
Purchasing kitchen cabinets to go by no means can be an overwhelming job especially when you have no idea where to start. There is a lot of important information that you should know before you make a decision, from deciding what storage you will need, cabinet styles and type you are looking for, the measurements of your space and your budget. This article will give you an overview to help you with making this very important decision without making costly mistakes.
Overwhelming Kitchen
What’s Your Budget?
Your first step in the remodel process is to establish a budget. Knowing how much you can spend will give you someplace to start in the selection process. Also don’t forget to include the cost of installation in your figures.
Kitchen cabinets typically will account for approximately 40% of your kitchen remodeling cost. Of course this varies depending on the types of cabinets you choose. When looking at cabinet cost you should also consider the reason for the remodel. Are you doing an upgrade so you can stay in and enjoy your home or are you hoping to sell in the near future?
Stock vs Semi stock vs custom:
There are three main types of kitchen cabinets: stock kitchen cabinets, semi-stock kitchen cabinets, and custom kitchen cabinets.
Stock Cabinets:
Stock cabinets, RTA cabinets or cabinets to go as they are sometimes called are a great way to add value to your home without spending a whole lot of cash. They are a homeowners dream when remodeling on a budget. However, they are limited in sizes and color so the installer will use filler pieces to complete the installation. They offer options and upgrades previously known to only custom lines such as full extension soft closing drawers, dovetailed drawers, wine racks, plate racks, fine moldings and many other accessories. They can be purchased assembled or disassembled (RTA, knocked down) and typically have a lead time of 5 to 7 business days. There are many stock cabinets on the market these days so it is imperative to do your research before purchasing them.
Stock cabinets can be purchased in most department stores, local dealerships and online. The most competitive prices however can be found online. Stick with the cheap stock lines that are already certified by the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturer’s Association).
Semi Custom Cabinets:
Semi-custom cabinets are made with the option to adjust them to fit the space. Therefore, one has the option to to request adjustments such as to reduce or increase cabinet depth if necessary, so as to gain additional storage and proper fit. Accessories such as wine and plate racks, roll out shelves, full extension drawer glides, glass inlays, detailed moldings can be added as needed. Semi custom cabinets are the types found mostly in local dealerships and are more expensive than stock lines. Delivery times are usually 3 to 5 weeks.
Custom Cabinets:
Custom-made cabinets are constructed to fit any configuration, size, or dimension. In other words they are made to fit your kitchen space, needs as well as your style. However, they are the most expensive of the three options and can take up to nine weeks to be delivered. The advantage of purchasing custom cabinets is that you can have any size or color or other specifications you desire.
Cabinet Construction:
It is very important that you examine the construction quality of the cabinets prior to making the decision to purchase them. Do not get caught up with name brands or high costs as they do not necessarily mean great quality.
Box:
Cabinet boxes in most cases are made from either plywood, particle board or MDF. It is uncommon to find cabinet boxes that are made from solid wood. This is due to its tendency to warp when exposed to moisture.
Drawers:
Drawers are typically made from solid wood or MDF with dovetailed, mortise and tenon or butt joints. Dovetailed joints are more desirable as they are the strongest.
Finishing system:
To properly protect the doors, your cabinet’s finish should include a moisture resistant sealant, catalytic conversion varnish and baked-on coats.
To ensure you are receiving quality, your best bet is to purchase from a kitchen manufacturer who is certified by The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA). These cabinets have passed rigorous testings to meet industry standards. Learn about KCMA Performance Testing & Certification Program.
So now that you have enough information to get started its time to jump right in. Feel free to browse through our list of kitchen cabinets to go. Otherwise, visit our site for more useful information on discount kitchen cabinets at stockcabinetexpress.com