Consumers have many options for buying cabinets. There are 90 cabinet companies selling through various dealers in the United States today. It can be difficult for consumers to navigate the choices as they weigh the balance of value and quality. One important factor to consider is cabinet construction. Details in cabinet construction make a difference in lifespan, functionality and cost. Not everyone can afford high-end cabinets, but knowing basic differences and options will help determine which line offers the best quality at any price point.
Box Construction Materials: Cabinet boxes are constructed with plywood or particle board (MDF). Furniture-grade plywood is light, stable and durable, but it is the most expensive. High-end MDF is also durable and stable; however, cabinet interiors are typically melamine instead of wood veneer, like in plywood boxes. Low-end MDF boxes are the least expensive but are not durable, and the material expands when wet.
Box Construction Assembly: Higher-quality cabinets use dado joints and glue on ¾-inch side panels. That assembly yields a longer-lasting, stronger cabinet capable of withstanding higher loads and daily abuse. Lesser-quality cabinets use staples to attach thin box sides together.
Box Construction Style: There are three styles of box construction: face-frame, inset and frameless. Face-frame cabinets are typically the standard for lower-end companies. They allow more tolerance for error, can be made with lesser-quality materials and are cheaper to manufacture. Inset cabinets also have a face frame; however, doors are flush with the frame instead of resting on top. The tight tolerance for error makes them the most expensive option. Frameless cabinetry is the modern way to build cabinets. Box stability comes from its construction and not from a frame. An advantage is 1½ inches more usable space per box, which adds up quickly. Frameless cabinets save space, can reduce installation time and offer a more contemporary look.
Drawer Boxes: Metal drawers are the best for quality and durability, but are the most expensive. High-quality cabinet drawers are made with solid wood, dovetail joints and ⅜-inch-thick drawer bottoms. Low-quality lines have stapled, butt-joined MDF boxes and ⅛-inch-thick bottoms, which over time will sag or fail.
Hardware: Quality hardware is made with engineered metal parts and higher-gauge steel. Doors and drawers can withstand heavy loads and frequent use, which prolongs the life of the cabinets. Issues from poor-quality hardware can quickly require maintenance or replacement.
Modifications: Selecting a cabinet line that offers height, width and depth modifications will allow maximum use of space, reduce costs and yield a cleaner design. Lower-cost cabinets typically only come in 3-inch increments. While this saves money, it results in less efficient use of space and fewer design options.
Warranty and Customer Service: Good cabinet companies offer limited lifetime warranties, make fewer factory errors and deliver parts orders quickly. With lower-end cabinets, homeowners are often stuck with the cost of replacement.
Working with a designer who is a local cabinet dealer will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience, even if selecting a lower-cost cabinet line. More personal attention and better customer service result in a more successful project with less frustration.
