Custom Vs. Semi-Custom & Stock Cabinets
A question we get often here at Materia Cabinetry is, “Why are custom cabinets right for me?” And the truth is, they may not be. Stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets all have their pros and cons. We want you to be informed of all options and make the decision for yourself on what might be the best fit for you and what you are looking for.
Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinets are mass produced and readymade. They come in standard sizes with the selection of wood species, door styles, and finishes. They can come RTA (ready to assemble) or pre-assembled.
Pros:
Stock cabinets can be a great option for many homeowners due to the affordability compared to the higher-end custom options. Prices usually range from $100-$300 per lineal foot. These cabinets are mass produced and pre-stocked so once ordered, they are usually picked, packed and shipped to you withing 1-3 weeks for RTA and 3-5 weeks for assembled. This makes stock cabinets a great option if you are working towards a deadline or are hoping to remodel in a shorter amount of time. They may come with a warranty, though the length and coverage vary. Though stock cabinet offer fewer options you can usually still find suitable styles and prices.
Cons:
With stock cabinets there is very little room for customization. Stock cabinets have limited options for designs, finishes, dimensions and accessories and do not offer modifications.
Since stock cabinets are manufactured with standard measurements, it may be difficult to achieve a perfectly uniform look throughout the kitchen. The available options may not conform with the space’s restrictions and requirements. If stock measurements do not fit your space properly, fillers may be needed, which would decrease the storage capacity.
Semi-Custom Cabinets:
In general, semi-custom cabinetry is stock cabinetry with extra finishing alternatives. Semi-custom cabinets offer many finishing options including expanding the cabinet’s depth or changing the size of the drawer and door fronts.
Pros:
Semi-custom cabinets are more customizable than stock cabinets but still at a lower cost than custom cabinets. Generally ranging from $150 to $650 per lineal foot. Many new factories produce very sturdy finishes, and warranties are generally longer than with stock cabinetry.
Cons:
Semi-custom cabinets are made once an order is placed, so lead times are longer than for stock cabinets, usually 5-7 weeks. There are also some limitations on options for styles and finishes compared to custom cabinetry. Although some there can be some modifications, they can raise the price higher than initially expected.
Custom Cabinets:
Custom cabinets are uniquely designed to fit your individual space and design specifications.
Pros:
With custom cabinets, the choices of design, finishes, sizes, colors and other options are potentially limitless. Because every cabinet is custom made for you, the final result can be a beautiful and well-designed fit for any room. Custom cabinet makers typically use higher quality materials and methods than that of stock and semi-custom cabinets. While some mass-produced cabinets offer particle board construction as an option that can save money, usually custom cabinet makers rely on durability and strength of high-grade plywood for the cabinet boxes.
Cons:
Because all custom cabinets are made to order, there are longer lead times than with stock or semi-custom cabinets. Lead time usually ranges from 6-10 weeks depending on the size of the kitchen. In addition, custom cabinets have a higher price point, usually ranging from $500-$1200 per lineal foot.
Overview:
When it comes to choosing the right cabinets for your home, there is no one answer for all. We have laid out the biggest pros and cons of each option to help. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each and make the best decision for your home and budget. If you are to choose custom cabinets, we here at Materia Cabinetry take pride in our methods and work. To better understand the pricing process, visit our Price Guide. After reviewing this guide and gaining a better understanding of where our prices come from, go ahead request a quote and we will get back with you to start the process to your dream design!