New Kitchen Cabinets Part III: Quality

Materials and workmanship are both important when it comes to the quality of your new kitchen cabinets. Whether you're replacing everything in an existing kitchen, building a new kitchen, or just doing some refacing, the quality of your cabinets is key. In most cases, the more money you spend, the better the product you'll end up with. Your cabinets make a big impact on the overall appearance of your kitchen, so you should spend some time researching your options.

Before you start the project, decide how much you want to spend so you won't waste time looking at materials that stretch your budget. For example, laminated cabinets are among the least expensive and they can give you an ultra-modern, sophisticated look. If you prefer the heft of wood, you.ll have multiple types and price ranges to choose from.

You'll always pay less out of pocket -- at least initially -- if you do your own work. However, if you lack carpentry skills, then it's probably well worth it to hire a qualified contractor. You may be able to save by doing some of the basics yourself and letting the expert do the finish work. When interviewing a prospective kitchen or remodeling contractor, be sure to ask questions about how different cabinet materials hold up over time, what type of warranties are available, who offers the best customer service, and where you may or may not want to cut corners. In theory, custom-designed and installed cabinets should be your best bet, but only if you can afford them and if you hire a contractor with the right skills and experience.

Specific Features

Kitchen cabinetry consists mainly of the box, doors, hinges and other hardware, drawers, and finishes. The materials used and methods of construction vary.

Cabinet boxes may be made of particle board, plywood, or solid woods of various types. The main consideration (besides budget) in choosing the type of cabinet box you want is how it will be used. A cupboard holding glassware doesn't need to be as sturdy as one stocked with heavy pots and pans or canned goods. If you decide to go with cabinet boxes may be made of particle board, plywood, or solid woods of various types. The main consideration (besides budget) in choosing the type of cabinet box you want is how it will be used. A cupboard holding glassware doesn't need to be as sturdy as one stocked with heavy pots and pans or canned goods. If you decide to go with solid wood, there will be more choices, such as a more inexpensive soft pine or a fine hardwood like cherry.

Another consideration is how the pieces are attached to the wall and to each other. The highest quality units use screws throughout rather than the staples and nails found on cheaper models. Hinges must be durable and heavy enough to support the doors and concealed hinges are more reliable. High-quality drawers use metal glides rather than plastic, and the pieces are dovetailed together instead of just nailed or stapled. Solid wood drawers look and perform best, but you can use a wooden front and laminate back and sides to save money and still have the appearance of wood.

The choices in hardware, including handles, knobs, and drawer pulls, are practically endless. They definitely add to the decorative aspects of your kitchen, but again the materials and installation will make all the difference in how well they function.

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