Cabinets are a major expense and buyers need to carefully consider their options and budget before buying. This includes evaluating cabinet construction and material quality, modification options, door style, color, installation, and other upgrades. Buyers also need to understand the factors that affect cabinet prices, such as how much the cabinetry cost a year ago and what the price will be a year from now.
Stock cabinets are prefabricated and typically available for pickup at home improvement or design centers, where they’re often ready to be installed the same day. Semi-custom and custom cabinets require more time to fabricate and install, and their price tags reflect this.
Upper (or wall) cabinets are mounted to the wall above countertops and are usually 12 inches deep. The heights of upper cabinets depend on the ceiling height, with 36-inch and 42-inch options common in most kitchens. The space above these cabinets is often covered with crown molding.
A tall cabinet can wrap around an appliance such as a refrigerator, which makes the appliances more accessible and provides additional storage. Door styles vary widely and range from simple beadboard / beaded doors to elaborately detailed panel, raised, or louvered models.
Cabinet hardware is another area where prices can be high — from basic plastic knobs to ornate glass pulls and handles. However, buyers can keep costs down by purchasing these items from large home improvement or design stores that have lower-priced options and specials at the end of a month or holiday season. full kitchen cabinet set