As a custom cabinet maker, we’ve collaborated with many area architects and designers to create beautiful, show stopping kitchens for homeowners throughout Northern and Central New Hampshire and Western Maine. We’re often asked about the differences between our custom kitchen cabinets and manufactured or stock kitchen cabinets. Here’s a comparison of the two so you can make an informed decision in your kitchen remodeling project.
Cabinet Production
All of Cormack’s custom kitchen cabinets are designed and built at The Woodworks, our woodworking division. Our cabinets are constructed with quality wood sourced from local suppliers whenever possible. This helps support our local economy and lessens our environmental impact.
Manufactured cabinets are produced in an assembly line. In most cases, they are made from MDF (medium-density fiberboard), plywood, or other similar engineered wood products manufactured overseas.
Quality, Durability, and Value
The bench carpenters who design and build our kitchen cabinets have a rare skill set in both millwork and custom carpentry. Each piece is hand-crafted and built to stand the test of time. No cabinet leaves our shop without a final quality inspection. Custom kitchen cabinets bring added value to any kitchen, which is important if you plan on selling your home.
Manufactured cabinets may be more susceptible to flaws because of their quick turnaround and assembly line hazards. Many times staples and glue are used in their construction. Because of the level of materials used, they may not hold up to the daily wear and tear your kitchen requires. If you expect to sell your home in the future, this is something to consider.
Design Options
Custom cabinets are all about options. They can be made in virtually any style, wood type, or color, and are designed to your specific space requirements. Since you are not limited to the standard sizes of manufactured cabinetry, you are able to maximize your available storage space. This is particularly helpful if your kitchen is especially small or has an awkward layout.
While manufactured cabinets do offer a variety of color and style options, they are typically available in standard sizes only. This might work for you if you have a standard kitchen. If you find that manufactured cabinetry doesn’t work in all aspects of your kitchen, you might be able to add in a piece of custom cabinetry.
Price
Custom kitchen cabinets can cost 25-50% more than their manufactured counterparts. This is because each piece is hand-crafted to your exact specifications with the design details and materials of your choosing. Because they are built to last and add value to your home at resale, custom kitchen cabinets may be an investment worth making.
Depending upon your kitchen design, space needs, and budget, manufactured kitchen cabinets may be an affordable option for you.
Custom Kitchen Cabinets in Northern and Central NH and Western ME
Interested in learning more about the benefits of custom kitchen cabinetry? Contact our award-winning home remodeling team for a complimentary consultation. We’re your local kitchen design and remodeling experts.