Many kitchens remodel fail to reach the dreamy, magazine-worthy stage. A typical kitchen remodels with 171/2 feet of upper and/or lower cabinets will cost $25,000 to renovate. New cabinets typically account for 25% of the budget. Many homeowners are hesitant to pay this high price and instead opt for a fresh coat or two of paint.
There is an alternative to traditional cabinets that are expensive. Ready-to-assemble cabinets (RTA) arrive flat-packed in cardboard boxes and include all the hardware required for assembly. RTA cabinets are half the cost of factory-assembled models because they can be built by homeowners. These cabinets are easy to build and can be delivered quickly. You can choose from an in-stock color and profile at a big-box retailer and they will arrive at your home in two weeks from countertop installation grand junction.
RTA Cabinets: Are they right for you?
Take a look at these pros and cons to determine if they are a good fit for your project.
Pros
• You can save significant amounts. RTA cabinets cost 30-50 percent less than their traditional counterparts.
• It is easy to assemble. Most RTA cabinets are assembled with screws, cam-lock hardware, or angle brackets. You will only need a basic tool like a screwdriver. You can find step-by-step videos online.
• Built with strong materials. RTA cabinets can be more expensive, but that doesn’t make them inferior in construction. They are made with the same materials as traditional cabinets.
Cons
• There are many boxes. Expect to be overwhelmed on delivery day. Parts for one base cabinet can often arrive in multiple boxes. In determining how long it will take to build all cabinets, consider the time you spend opening boxes and taking inventory.
• It is more difficult to find design help. Design help is not necessary if the goal is to simply replace cabinets. For more complicated renovations, a professional may be required to help you plan the layout. This service is only available to RTA cabinet manufacturers and retailers.
• You may not always be able to see them before you buy. You can find cabinets in stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, and IKEA. In many cases, however, you’ll have to settle for a sample.
