Are you contemplating purchasing discount kitchen cabinets or RTA kitchen cabinets for your remodel project but you are not sure about the quality of these cabinets? After all, everyone seems to be using them but the thought still leaves you uncomfortable. This might be the solution for you but first you must do your research and educate yourself about them.
When purchasing your discount kitchen cabinets it is important that you know what to look for. This will save you a whole lot of money in the long run. Never give up quality for price. It is possible to obtain a custom look without the custom price if you know what you are doing.
Purchasing discount kitchen cabinets can be an overwhelming job especially when you have no idea where to start. There are 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, what is the measurement of your space and your budget. This report will give you an overview to help you with making this very important decision without making costly mistakes.
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
Dove Tail Drawers
One indicator of quality in wood furniture is dovetail drawer construction. This creates stability of the joints to prevent them from pulling apart.
Plywood Boxes construction
It is important to check that the cabinet box is made from plywood and at least 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick with a cam locking or dovetail system. This ensures durability. Boxes that are made with particle board and are stapled and glued are usually less durable.
Drawer glides
There are cheap kitchen cabinets out there boasting an under mount, full extension drawer glide with soft closing features. Most of the higher end discount kitchen cabinets now come with these features or offer them as an upgrade. These features are typically found in semi custom and custom cabinetry.
Shelves
For a strong, sturdy supporting shelf opt for one that is 3/4 inch thick and made with plywood or plywood with wood veneer.
Warranty
Be sure to review the companies warrant, return and cancellation policies before purchasing. Most ready to assemble cabinets carry one to five year warranty.
Enhance the overall look of your kitchen cabinets by including accessories like moldings, corbels, glass doors and appliqués to give it that custom look. However, these can increase your price dramatically so you might want to be a little conservative on those.
Learn more about discount kitchen cabinets and view our wide selection of cabinetry at www.stockcabinetexpress.com
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