Putting custom cabinets in your kitchen is a great investment not only in the resale value of your home, but also in the practicality of the room.
This purchase is usually the most expensive part of building or remodeling a kitchen. When you start looking at designs, knowing the different expenses can help you not only keep track of how much you’re spending, but also give you options for where you can save and where you can splurge.
Here are the top expenses when it comes to custom kitchen cabinets:
Wood – There are a variety of types of wood that can be used for custom cabinets. Prefab cabinets are made from pressed particle board and cardboard. The facade may be made of cheap wood, but the interior will not be solid. When choosing woods, prices will vary. Cherry is at the higher end of the scale, while Red Oak is a good mid-priced, durable wood. Other popular materials include hickory, walnut, and maple.
Construction: Shoddy construction is cheaper, but it’s also… well, it’s also shoddy. It just makes sense to go with the stronger dovetail joints and solid wood drawer bottoms make for a quality piece that will last through the blink for years to come.
Ball bearing slides and weighted drawers also add to the cost of construction and are considerations. The door is also an important cost factor. The more detailed the door, the more expensive. The same goes for the finishes. A glaze is more expensive than a stain or a paint. Finally, any organizational design will serve you well for more than just basic shelves and drawers.
Countertop: Basic laminate, granite, corian, and marble come in a variety of colors and textures. Obviously, when you get into natural stone pieces, the expense skyrockets, but they are also more durable and add richness to the kitchen. Another popular material for countertops is cement.
Contemporary and stylish, this gives a very urban look to the cabinet. You don’t want to install a gorgeous custom cabinet and then top it off with a cheap counter.
Hardware – If you have ever replaced cabinet hardware and know that it can be expensive depending on the material and design. It’s not a place to skimp, either, but you can find a nice middle ground.
Installation: There isn’t much you can do about this expense unless you do it yourself. Get referrals and let them bid on a price.
Whether you spend or save with your custom kitchen cabinets, you can be sure you’re adding value to your home while adding your personal touch to one of the most used rooms in the house. Isn’t this where your family and friends congregate?