Top 7 Questions to Ask Before Buying RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Top 7 Questions to Ask Before Buying RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Ready-To-Assemble (RTA) cabinets have become an incredibly popular choice for both homeowners and contractors, and for good reason. They offer an affordable, convenient, and stylish alternative to traditional custom cabinetry. Unlike pre-assembled cabinets, RTA cabinets are flat-packed and shipped directly to you, ready for assembly.
This not only significantly reduces costs but also empowers you with more control over your kitchen renovation project. However, with so many options available, it's crucial to be an informed buyer.
Asking the right questions before you make a purchase can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Here are the top seven questions you should ask every RTA cabinet supplier.
1. What Materials Are Used in These Cabinets?
The materials used in the construction of your RTA cabinets directly determine their quality and durability. Common materials include MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard), plywood, and particleboard. Plywood is great for cabinet boxes because of its strength, resistance to moisture, and ability to hold screws more securely.
MDF is also a popular, economical choice, especially for cabinet doors, as it provides a smooth surface perfect for painting. When researching, inquire about the thickness and grade of the materials. At Fit Cabinetry, we prioritize using high-quality plywood for our cabinet boxes to ensure long-lasting durability and a premium finish.
2. Are the Cabinets CARB2 Compliant and Eco-Friendly?
Safety and health should be a top priority when selecting materials for your home. CARB2 compliance is a certification that ensures wood products meet strict regulations for formaldehyde emissions. This is particularly important for buyers in California, where these standards are mandatory, but it’s a good indicator of product safety for anyone.
Ask your supplier about their commitment to using eco-friendly materials and adhesives that are low in VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Choosing a supplier like Fit Cabinetry that adheres to these health-conscious standards means you can be confident your new kitchen won't compromise your family's well-being.
3. How Easy Are They to Assemble?
The "ready-to-assemble" part of RTA cabinets is what makes them so appealing, but assembly difficulty can vary significantly between brands. Most high-quality RTA cabinets designers create with the DIY-er in mind, featuring pre-drilled components and cam-lock fastening systems that simplify the process and require only basic tools like a screwdriver.
Request to see a sample of the assembly instructions to gauge their clarity. While many customers enjoy the hands-on process, some may prefer professional assistance. Suppliers should be able to clarify the difficulty level and offer guidance or recommend local installers if needed.
4. What Kind of Finish and Style Options Are Available?
The style and finish of your cabinets are what will ultimately define the look of your kitchen. Popular finishes include painted, stained, and laminate. Painted cabinets offer a clean, modern look, while stained finishes highlight the natural beauty of the wood grain.
Common styles range from the timeless simplicity of a Shaker door to the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of Slab doors. In addition to these classic options, some suppliers, including Fit Cabinetry, offer a variety of styles, colors, and accessories to help you achieve a truly customized look that fits your unique taste and kitchen layout.
5. What Is the Lead Time and Shipping Process?
Timing is crucial in a renovation project. Before placing your order, inquire about the typical lead time, the period between placing your order and when it ships. This can vary depending on the supplier's inventory and manufacturing process.
Ask about the shipping process, including packaging and who is responsible for delivery to your home. Understanding these timelines helps you plan your project effectively and avoid costly delays. A good rule of thumb is to order your cabinets well in advance of when you need them on-site.
6. Is There a Warranty or Return Policy?
A robust warranty and a clear return policy are essential for buyer peace of mind. A warranty protects you against manufacturing defects and ensures the product's quality. Ask about the duration of the warranty and what it covers.
Additionally, understand the company's return policy, especially regarding damaged or incorrect items. Clear, customer-friendly policies, like those offered at Fit Cabinetry, demonstrate a company's confidence in its products and reduce the risk of a purchase you might regret.
7. What Support Is Available After the Sale?
You should maintain your relationship with your cabinet supplier even after you make the purchase. For first-time RTA buyers or contractors, having access to post-sale support can be a huge benefit. Ask if the company provides support for installation questions, design assistance, or if they have a dedicated customer service team. This is particularly valuable if you run into any unexpected issues during the assembly or installation process.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right RTA kitchen cabinets is a significant decision that impacts the look, functionality, and value of your home. By taking the time to ask these seven crucial questions, you can navigate the purchasing process with confidence and ensure you're investing in a product that meets your quality and style expectations. Asking these questions helps you not only find a high-quality product but also a trustworthy company that stands behind its products and supports its customers.
Explore our wide range of RTA kitchen cabinets, or contact our design experts to start your project.
