
On some cabinets, the doors nestle into the cabinetry, creating a flush, uniform look. Some cabinets have face frames, and others don’t (frameless cabinets are called European-style cabinets). Mission cabinets may complement arts and crafts or Craftsman-style homes. Contemporary or modern cabinets probably suit contemporary homes. Shaker, traditional, and country may complement a farmhouse, Cape Cod, or ranch home. Popular door styles include Shaker, traditional, modern, contemporary, rustic country, and Mission. Cabinet style generally refers to the appearance of the door and face frames. Seemingly endless stylistic choices are available in cabinetry. Although it doesn’t resist water well, cabinets made of particleboard are inexpensive. Particleboard: Some of the most affordable cabinets are made of particleboard, a composition of wood chips and resin or glue with a laminated material on top.It takes paint well and is more affordable than wood or plywood. High-density fiberboard: Some painted cabinets use high-density fiberboard (HDF), which is a man-made product.When a manufacturer refers to “wood kitchen cabinets,” the cabinet boxes are typically made of plywood. Plywood is very strong and less expensive than individual wood boards, though it has a similar appearance. Plywood: Many manufacturers use cabinet-grade plywood to create the cabinet boxes.Ready-to-assemble cabinets rarely are completely constructed of real wood. Real wood: Genuine wood is usually reserved for the cabinet doors or face frames (the strips of wood on the face of the cabinet behind the door).Some of the following materials are likely to appear in RTA-type cabinets: MaterialĬabinet manufacturers use several different types of materials to construct kitchen cabinets. Other types of cabinets and accessories include full-height pantry cabinets, trash and recycling pullouts, appliance “garages” to store countertop gear, wine racks, and more. Corner cabinets, both wall or base cabinets, offer more storage space. Wall cabinets, which are shallower, are constructed to bear the weight of heavy tableware.Īdditionally, a sink cabinet is available with a faux drawer front that hides the sink and plumbing. For instance, a base cabinet is deeper than a wall cabinet, and it includes an area called a “toe kick” that allows the user to move closer to the countertop. This one difference can make a significant difference on the project’s bottom line.Īlso note that several types of individual cabinets are available, each of which serves its own purpose. Assembled cabinets are ready to hang right out of the box. RTA cabinets are economical, but they require more work before installation. TypeĬabinets come either assembled or ready to assemble (RTA). The following are some of the most critical factors to consider when choosing the best kitchen cabinets. Deciding which factors are most important depends on the individual. DIYers may have to make compromises in the quality of construction, materials, slides, or hardware. When trying to keep costs down, choosing the best kitchen cabinets can be a tricky proposition. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Kitchen Cabinets for Budget-Minded DIYers
