Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets are a bit misunderstood. They’re not pre-built out of the big-box store, and they’re not custom versions ready to install: to many homeowners, they sound like only a professional carpenter can put them together. Many renovators do not consider them a practical choice for their projects because they think they’re inferior types of good cabinets, not appropriate for their kitchen. Well, they are incorrect!
One of the most standard makeovers in the home is the kitchen upgrade. We often socialize in our kitchens, so, logically, we would like it to look attractive. A major roadblock for many remodelers is that kitchen renovations and updates can be pretty expensive. Many costs for kitchen items, including appliances, flooring, countertops, and hardware, can pile up fast. Often, remodelers exceed their budget on one of these components, and the overall project can run away from them.
Luckily, there are several paths you can take to cut costs on these kitchen updates. If you are flexible and open to new adventures, one of the simplest ways to lower costs is to purchase unassembled cabinets, also known as ready-to-assemble (or RTA) kitchen cabinets. They are packed flat for shipping, coming to you in individual pieces, and then you piece them together and install them in your kitchen.
Within the last decade, the quality of ready to assemble cabinetry has increased dramatically. Previously, RTA cabinets were weak, shoddily constructed, tough to build, and poorly finished. The outcome was an uninspiring cabinet not good enough for most kitchens. Today, though, things have switched. As their reputation continues to improve, manufacturers have refined the RTA cabinet, letting it contend with many others on the market in terms of quality and sturdiness.
While RTA cabinets are dependable and can save you lots of money, there are also some possible disadvantages when going with these cabinets. As with any significant purchase, it is always a good idea to look at the pros and cons of products before purchasing them. Let’s see some of the plusses and minuses of RTA kitchen cabinets and see if they may be the ideal option for your kitchen upgrade.
The Advantages of RTA Kitchen Cabinets
The most significant advantage of unassembled cabinetry is its cost. Because it comes to you in individual pieces, it is often priced much lower than other kitchen cabinetry, especially custom cabinets. You’ll need to cut, measure, and put together the cabinetry by yourself. By undertaking all of the physical labor of assembling, you cut out the extra labor cost often baked into cabinet prices. With other cabinet types, professional woodworkers assemble them for you, saving you time and energy on your task. However, the money you can save by going with RTA cabinets is substantial and well worth the labor that you go through to put them together.
Another plus of unassembled kitchen cabinets is their easy installation. Many homeowners worry that these are a big challenge to assemble, but as technology advances, they are easier than ever to put together, even for those that don’t think of themselves as DIYers. With detailed instructions and simple steps, you can assemble these products very fast.
Compared to custom cabinets, you can finish your project much quicker. Ordering custom cabinets can delay your remodeling goals by weeks or longer if you have to wait for shipping and installation. RTA cabinets are sent to your house much faster, as the shipping process is more streamlined.
The Negatives of RTA Cabinets
While there are many benefits, there are a few concerns to consider with unassembled cabinets. While instructions are simple, it requires a decent amount of physical output and sweat to assemble the cabinets correctly. They can be pricey to fix if errors are made, so be extra cautious in your measurements and cuts. As a result, many homeowners decide to go with pros and hire contractors to put them together.
Another downside of ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets is variety, but this also depends on the seller you find. Certain sites may have a cap on sizes, colors, and design options for RTA cabinetry. It may be challenging to find the perfect cabinets if you’re going for an unorthodox kitchen design or color combination.
Can RTA Cabinets Be My Kitchen Renovation Solution?
RTA cabinets can be an exceptional choice, especially for the cost-aware homeowner. While there are a few downsides, the many advantages of RTA cabinets outnumber them. The trick is only to buy RTA cabinets from online sellers you trust who manufacture the highest-quality products.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at BlueFashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2013. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
