When it comes to a home remodeling project, a kitchen remodel is usually associated with the highest price tags. That could be because of the installation of new appliances, lighting, fixtures, and cabinets. Since the kitchen remodeling project can be quite expensive, homeowners may consider custom cabinets vs. prefab. This article will outline some of the pros and cons of Customized Cabinets Vs. Prefabricated option to help you choose which one suits your needs and budget. Read on to explore them.
What are custom cabinets?
A custom cabinet is a cabinet that is built explicitly by someone for the client’s specific project. With this option, the client chooses the materials, the features, the finish, and the physical dimensions of the cabinet. Custom cabinets can help you achieve the kind of look you want for your kitchen.
When it comes to custom cabinets, many people prefer solid wood for their cabinets. Solid wood can last longer, and a professional can also finish it without necessarily replacing it. This can become handy, especially if you want to update your kitchen in the future.
What are fabricated cabinets?
Prefabricated cabinets are cabinets that are manufactured well in advance before the homeowner actually purchases them. Prefabricated cabinets aren’t built for a kitchen’s exact dimensions; instead, they come in standards sizes. For instance, 9-inches is the standard beginning width of prefabricated cabinets.
While some prefab cabinet manufacturers can make cabinets outside of these dimensions, such cabinets are suitable for higher-end or larger kitchen spaces. As far as materials are concerned, solid wood is not commonly used. Instead, prefab cabinet manufacturers usually use imported plywood or melamine and standard joinery to produce prefab kitchen cabinets.
Now that you understand what these two types of kitchen cabinets are all about let’s explore some of the custom and prefab kitchen cabinets’ pros and cons.
The pros and cons of custom cabinets
- They can be designed and built to fit the exact physical dimensions of your kitchen.
- Custom products tend to be made with high-quality materials, meaning that they will look stylish and last longer.
- Everything can be customized to suit your taste and preferences. Whether it the finish being used, the color, or the sizing.
- Custom cabinets can be very cost-effective, especially if sourced from the right company.
Cons
- The only downside of the custom cabinets is that they require a substantial amount of time to complete
The pros and cons of prefabricated kitchen cabinets
The pros
- Prefabricated cabinets are generally less expensive compared to custom cabinets.
- Since they are readily available, you can get them delivered quickly. Of course, this can save you time and money.
- It is easy to find someone who can install your prefab kitchen cabinets.
- They come in a wide range of colors and finishes to accommodate every homeowner’s taste and preferences.
- It is easy to replace a section of a prefab cabinet that is damaged.
Cons
- Limitations on sizing, finishes, and materials.
- Fewer designs choices than a custom cabinet
- The lifespan is generally shorter than that of custom cabinets.
