When renovating or remodeling your kitchen, cabinets are probably the most important part of the entire kitchen remodel. Not only do kitchen cabinets play a significant role in the look and feel of your space, but they also must function well for everyday use. This is where custom cabinets vs. prefabricated cabinets play a major role in kitchen design.
It’s important to understand which would be better for your home and kitchen space, as well as your personal preferences, when choosing cabinetry for your next kitchen project.
Choosing Custom Cabinets Or Prefabricated Cabinets
When you are ready to choose what kind of cabinets you would like in your new kitchen, you will have to choose between custom cabinetry and prefabricated cabinets. Your project timeline, budget, the amount of space, and how personalized you want your space are all factors that you will have to consider in this decision.
MRD Lumber is here to make the process easy for homeowners. In this guide, we’ve broken down some of the key differences between prefabricated cabinets and custom cabinetry to assist you in selecting the option that works best for your next home project. With our experience working with both types we can help guide you to loving your kitchen cabinets.
What are Prefabricated Cabinets?
Prefabricated cabinets are typically mass-produced, ready-to-install cabinets that come in standard styles and sizes. These types of cabinets are usually found in home improvement stores or online, and are made to be economical and quickly installed. Because these cabinets are pre-built and ready to ship, they’re great for homeowners who want to finish their project quickly and affordably.
Prefabricated cabinets can easily be found for approximately $200-300, depending on size and finishes. While you cannot modify the size or shape of prefabricated cabinets, you can easily modify their look by painting and finishing them, as well as adding different types of kitchen hardware (the handles or knobs) that fit the look of the rest of your kitchen. Prefabricated cabinets are a versatile and convenient option for a remodeling project where you have the space to accommodate the sizes available.
Pros of Choosing Prefabricated Cabinets
There are multiple benefits to choosing prefabricated cabinets for your kitchen remodel. Learn about the pros of choosing prefab kitchen cabinets below:
- Prefabricated Cabinets Are More Affordable: Prefab cabinets are ideal for those who are looking to save money because they are budget-friendly and typically more affordable than custom cabinets.
- You Can Get Faster Delivery With Prefab Cabinets: Because you are not customizing or going through the design process, prefabricated cabinets can be easily installed within days of you purchasing your cabinets.
- Prefabricated Cabinets Can Be Easily Installed: These types of cabinets are more DIY-friendly and can generally be more easily installed to replace your old cabinets.
- Prefabricated Cabinets Are Great For Standard Spaces: Prefabricated cabinetry’s standard sizing makes it easier to find countertops or sinks that will work with your cabinets.
Cons of Choosing Prefabricated Cabinets
There are a few negatives to choosing prefabricated cabinets over custom cabinets for your kitchen. Here are the negatives of prefabricated cabinets for your kitchen:
- Prefabricated Cabinets Are Typically Made Of Lower Quality Materials: Many prefab cabinets are made with MDF or particleboard instead of solid wood, which will significantly reduce their lifespan. At MRD, we offer prefabricated options that are made with solid wood, however, many that you will find at big box home improvement stores that look similar on the surface have a particle board base. We always recommend you get solid wood cabinets simply because they will last longer, be of much higher quality, and more durable. Many prefabricated options also are constructed in a way that reduces their lifespan (stapled vs dovetailed drawer boxes) or functionality (lack of adjustable hinges, soft close doors, etc).
- There Are Limited Sizing Options With Prefab Cabinets: Since they come in standard dimensions, prefab cabinets might not fit your kitchen perfectly, which can cause awkward gaps or unused space.
- Customization Requires Additional Work For Prefabricated Cabinets: With prefab cabinets, you may have to do your own painting or staining, as well as finishing and finding fixtures. It is possible to create beautiful prefabricated cabinets that work with your space, it will just take some more effort.
What are Custom Cabinets?
Custom cabinets are made to order based on the exact measurements of your kitchen, bathroom, or other spaces in your home. They are made by professional cabinet makers who are able to match the exact finish, style, or color you are looking for. While they may be more expensive than prefabricated cabinets, the craftsmanship and attention to detail make it worth it. Custom cabinets are a great choice and a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
Pros of Choosing Custom Cabinets
There are so many benefits to getting custom cabinets built for your kitchen. The higher quality and value can be seen in your kitchen.
- Custom Cabinets Are Designed To Fit Your Space: No matter how intricate or unique the spaces in your home are, custom cabinets can be designed to fit it perfectly. This allows you to make a layout that is special to your home and will truly personalize your space.
- Custom Cabinets Offer Full Customization Options: Custom cabinets allow you to choose a nearly endless variety of colors, materials, finishes, door styles, and storage options. They allow you to match existing features like antique built-ins or coordinate with furniture you already have and plan to use in the space.
- Custom Cabinets Are More Durable: Custom cabinets are usually built with higher-quality materials and by professional cabinet makers. They are built to last longer and show less signs of wear and tear.
- Custom Cabinets Add More Value To Your Home: If you are looking to sell your home, having custom cabinets instead of prefabricated boosts your home value and are more appealing for their quality and personalized design.
Cons of Choosing Custom Cabinets
Excellent and high-quality materials do come with a price, and a time investment. Below are the potential negatives of getting custom cabinets built for your kitchen:
- Custom Cabinets Typically Cost More Than Prefabricated Cabinets: Custom cabinets are usually more expensive because of the cost of skilled labor, quality of materials, and detailed design.
- You Might Be Waiting Longer For Custom Cabinets: Due to the time it takes to design, construct, and install your custom cabinets, it will take longer to finish your kitchen remodel.
- Custom Cabinets Require Professional Installation: When you choose to get custom cabinets, expert installation is recommended to ensure a perfect end result. This can add to the time and cost factors as well.
MRD Lumber Is Here For All Of Your Cabinetry Needs
Finding the right cabinetry is all about finding the balance between personalization and convenience. If you are unsure about the type of cabinets you should get in your home, talk to the experts at MRD Lumber. We will help you go over what you are looking for in your new space, and find the products that you need to make it happen.
We have both prefabricated cabinet options as well as custom cabinet options that will be sure to complete any space. Our custom millshop team and local artisan cabinet partners proudly craft quality custom pieces to give your home the personalized touch that you are looking for.
We are so excited to bring our expertise to your home and give you the transformation of your dreams. MRD is here to help you with supplies for your new kitchen, as well as for bathrooms, and other interior renovation projects. If you are ready to explore cabinets for your kitchen remodel, contact us today or visit our showrooms in Bethel, PA and the Lehigh Valley.