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Prefab Cabinets
Friday, March 8, 2019 4:11:54 PM America/New_York
Prefab Cabinets vs Custom Cabinets: Which Is Right for You?
What if your kitchen renovation was doomed from the start?
The heart and soul of a new kitchen is, of course, the cabinets. But many homeowners don't know if they should embrace ready-to-assemble cabinets or custom cabinets instead.
Wondering what will do the most for your home (not to mention its value)? Keep reading to discover the answer!
Your Handiness Skills
We've put together a solid guide to the benefits and drawbacks of the two cabinet options. Before you dive further, though, you must answer this question: how handy are you?
There are many factors surrounding these cabinets, and they include issues ranging from renovation time to renovation budget. However, all of this goes up when you are forced to hire professionals for installation and other issues.
Conversely, those who have renovation experience and are handy with the power tools may be able to shave off some of their renovation time and budget. And if you aren't that handy yourself, consider tagging in a friend or family member who may be able to help out!
Kitchen Sizing
When it comes to kitchen renovations, size matters. And no, we're not just talking about that giant refrigerator of yours.
No two kitchen are exactly alike. And the biggest problem with prefab cabinets is they are designed as a "one size fits all."
It's possible you will find a prefab that fits your kitchen like a glove. But if your kitchen has a more unique shape than others, it may be impossible to find a suitable prefab cabinet set.
This is where custom cabinets really shine. Whatever the size or configuration of your kitchen, you can have custom cabinets built that are absolutely perfect.
The "Finishing" Touches
When we think of how cabinets look, we mostly think of the finish. And your specific finish needs will determine whether you need prefab kitchen cabinets or custom cabinets.
Prefab cabinets come available in a wide assortment of different finishes. This ranges from bright white all the way to rich burgundy colors.
However, there are limits to the colors offered by most prefab manufacturers. If you want something outside of their usual color range, you may be out of luck.
With custom cabinets, you have access to basically every color under the sun. This is a good choice if you have kitchen colors that are hard to match or you want to try something completely different.
Budgetary Concerns
Arguably, your budget is one of the biggest concerns when it comes to new kitchen cabinets. And this typically ties into the overall scope of your renovation.
For example, prefab cabinets tend to be on the cheaper side compared to custom cabinets. This is great if you're on a stricter budget.
Alternately, this is great if you have extensive renovation plans. The less you spend on cabinets, the further your budget can go.
Custom cabinets are amazing, but you get what you pay for. That means a good custom job may end up taking up much of your renovation budget!
Renovation Time
Homeowners have different reasons for renovating their kitchens. Some may just want a nice change of pace in their home while others are hoping to add value for when they sell.
This ties into how much time you have for a renovation. Generally speaking, prefab cabinets save a lot of time because they are already crafted and ready to go.
A good custom job may take a lot of time. Furthermore, some craftsmen pride themselves on the time they take to get a job "just right."
Therefore, picking which cabinet option is best for you largely comes down to how much time you have to spare!
The In-Between Option
For the most part, homeowners think of a kitchen renovation as a binary choice. It's either prefab or custom... right?
There is a kind of middle road you can potentially take. And, fittingly, that road is labeled "semi-custom."
Most of the issues about custom cabinets concern time and money. It takes a lot of time to make something from scratch, and that increases its overall cost.
With semi-custom cabinets, certain parts (such as doors) are already made. The custom work then focuses on fitting certain cabinets in certain homes.
This middle of the road option is also the middle of the road in terms of cost and time. It's worth considering before you start your next renovation.
Future Renovations
Speaking of the next renovation, you should already be thinking about it. Specifically, you should think of making your cabinets "futureproof."
For instance, you may not think you'll be renovating again. We've got news for you, though: you thought the same thing many years ago!
Prefab cabinets are a great choice for the here and now. But you must be careful to select something that is easy enough to build around in the coming years.
Custom cabinets may give you more versatility. Be careful, though. The custom job that is just right in the here and now may not be a great choice in 20 years.
Investment vs Convenience
That brings us to the final consideration: investment vs convenience.
Generally speaking, custom cabinets are going to last longer than prefab cabinets. That makes them a great choice for homes that owners intend to pass on to their children.
However, they cost more and take longer to install. And there's always a chance the next owners won't like the cabinets at all.
Prefabs may not last as long, but they are cheaper and easier to replace. This may give you and future homeowners the versatility you need for the future.
Prefab Cabinets vs Custom: The Bottom Line
Most people think the choice between prefab and custom is the choice between "cheap" and "high quality." But what if you could have it both ways?
At Wholesale Cabinets, we specialize in selling prefab cabinets of the absolute highest quality. In short, you're getting custom quality at prefab price!
To see how we can make your renovation dreams come true, just contact us today!