Stock & RTA Cabinets vs Custom Cabinets.

What’s the big deal? Aren’t cabinents basically all the same?

THE DIFFERENCE

Let’s start by defining some terms.

Stock cabinets are cabinet boxes manufactured in set sizes, often in 3 inch increments, allowing the manufacturer to mass produce assembled boxes at a lower price.

ReadyTo Assemble cabinets (RTA’s) come in flat boxes and are constructed on site and are also produced in large quantities in standard sizes and heights.

Custom kitchen cabinets are manufactured to the exact specifications of a kitchen design and are produced to the exact sizes needed for each project to maximize functionality and storage. They can be height and depth increased or reduced and constructed to maximize the unique nooks and crannies that often accompany the kitchen renovation of any home.

So… aren’t stock cabinets just as good as custom cabinets?

It’s always important to note for any cabinet comparison, that cabinets aren’t always created equal! Generally with stock cabinetry, you are giving up on customization options in finishes or functionality that you may really love.

Stock cabinet manufacturing by its nature is looking to create efficiencies to lower costs. That’s why it’s important to make sure that the quality of materials used, construction, and door finishes are comparable.

If you do choose to compare stock cabinetry in lieu of more storage, here are some other things to consider when comparing any cabinetry…

  • How many filler strips will be needed to accommodate the stock cabinets and how big/apparent will they be in the finished design

  • Do the cabinets come with fully adjustable shelves or only a fixed number of holes?

  • Is the cabinet shelving 5/8’s thick or 3/4 inches thick for added durability over the life of your cabinets?

  • Can the adjustable shelves be easily adjusted/removed?

  • Do the cabinets come with reinforced areas for proper and durable hanging and installation?

  • Does the cabinet come with high-quality hardware ( hinges and drawer slides, preferably soft-close) as standard?

  • Do base cabinets come with full tops for durability (AND to act as a countertop during the reno before the countertop is installed? VERY useful) or are they partial tops?

What to watch for with RTAs.

With RTA cabinets specifically, they are often designed for the DIY’er. These types of cabinets are often found in big-box stores or other online retailers. With RTA cabinets, quality can differ. The function of having to flat pack and ship these cabinets means cabinet materials (like the back of the cabinet box) may be constructed with thinner material or base cabinets without full base tops. Of course, they also vary depending on how the cabinet is constructed on site with cam lock mechanisms and other DIY construction methodologies that don’t mirror the durability or stability of manufactured cabinets. The obvious downside… Cabinets need to be assembled on-site, which adds time to the installation costs and therefore the overall cost of the project!

RTA cabinets can be a great fit for rental units, house flips, or DIY projects and will help you hit a lower price point.

Stock cabinets can be a good fit if the quality of construction and finishes is high, but be sure to understand where the use of filler strips will take place or what storage maximization you may be foregoing.

If you plan to be in your home for the long haul, invest in a custom kitchen.

Not only will it hold up better to everyday wear over the years, but if you are going to be in your home forever, you deserve a kitchen that will last, protecting the investment you’ve made in your kitchen and providing you the kitchen of your dreams tomorrow and long into the future.

Learn more about how our local manufacturer, DECOR Cabinets, builds quality custom cabinets for your kitchen that will last a lifetime without breaking the bank!