How to Buy Cabinets
Purchasing cabinets for your kitchen or bathroom is a big decision. But with a little time and effort, you can get the best fit and value.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Make a list of the cabinets you require. Consider your storage needs and what type of cabinets will meet those needs. For example, will a 12-inch-wide cabinet be useful for you or is it too small to hold your kitchen tools?
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2
Take accurate measurements of the area where the cabinets will be installed. Measure all dimensions - depth, width and height. Recheck your measurements. It is extremely important that these measurements are correct.
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3
Draw a diagram of the area and include the dimensions of the area where the cabinets will be installed. Measure and write down the size and location of the existing cabinets, if any. (You may want this information to note what cabinets are being replaced, or you may want to buy the same pieces or get a larger cabinet for a certain spot.)
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4
Visit several cabinet vendors. Include both upscale cabinet/kitchen showrooms and major home centers.
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5
Look at the cabinets and select the styles that you like.
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6
Understand how cabinetry is priced: Cabinet prices are based upon the quality of construction and the materials used. Special pieces (fancy corner cabinets or those with special features such as lazy Susans) are considerably more expensive than basic cabinets. Cabinets are priced by the unit (cabinet), although some showrooms will offer the costs of display kitchens on a per-square-foot basis as well.
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7
Ask salespeople direct questions. Inquire as to the specific reasons why one line is more expensive than another. Make sure that you understand the differences in both cost and construction.
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8
Review your dimensions with a designer at the showroom.
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9
Develop a plan that works for your needs and budget. Most showrooms today have computers that allow the supplier to print out plans, materials lists and even 3D views. (Remember to consider your appliances when developing the design.)
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10
Confirm that your plan includes all the features that you want, including trim packages and other extras that may be included with the showroom displays.
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11
Execute a contract for the purchase of the cabinets. Specify an outside delivery date and note if the vendor will provide installation services.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Cabinet prices fluctuate enormously depending on the quality level, style and vendor. Expect to spend $2,000 to $5,000 for a fairly typical kitchen layout and $150 to $500 for a bathroom vanity.
Cabinet styles change periodically. Currently, light-stained wood - particularly maple - is very popular. Several years ago, white-painted wood cabinets were the hot style. Unless you are upgrading a kitchen expressly to sell your home, use your own taste and judgment in selecting a style of cabinets.
If you are having the cabinets installed by someone other than the place of purchase, be sure that your installer reviews the cabinetry upon delivery to confirm that everything is included and in good condition.
If you are shopping for high-end cabinets, be a thorough shopper and do not allow yourself to be influenced by sales pitches or elegant showrooms. There is huge price variation at the top of the market and people often pay thousands - even tens of thousands - of dollars more for the same quality. Ask pointed questions: Why is one cabinet 60 percent more expensive than another? Do not accept nonspecific or inadequate responses. Leave the showroom or go somewhere else if you don't get what you need.
