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Line blur between standard and custom kitchen cabinets

When it comes to kitchen cabinets, the custom is becoming more widespread, according to a recent “Consumer Reports” article. In fact, the distinction between premium and entry-level kitchen cabinets “has blurred as manufacturers offer premium features at lower prices.” What used to be available only to the wealthy can now be had at a variety of price points.

Stronger joints, more styling options, and exclusive features like range hood covers, elaborate crown molding, and other custom options are elevating standard cabinets to the mid-tier of semi-custom cabinets. They’re also catapulting basic cabinets closer to custom built-to-order units.

In a recession-plagued era, that’s good news for homeowners who want to update their kitchen cabinets but are too financially strapped to hire a custom designer. Your local Lowe’s or Home Deport will do just as well these days, thank you very much. At least that’s the conclusion “Consumer Reports” came to when they “compared a cross section of combined wall and base cabinets… [choosing] tight-grained maple, which, with cherry, gains ground on oak. Most of the models are sold at Home Depot and Lowe’s, which account for about half of all residential sales.” More specifically, the magazine “evaluated the premium lines sold at Expo Design Center, Home Depot’s high-end division, along with mid-tier models from local stores.”

The results?

1. “You’ll find more low-priced basic cabinets available with pull-out shelves and full-extension drawers,” giving you more storage options.

2. Two basic ready-to-assemble cabinets from major kitchen cabinet manufacturers were tested. It turned out that they withstood the magazine’s “wear tests” better than some more expensive brands, thus ensuring greater durability.

3. Although the door designs, box sizes, accessories and trim options weren’t as good on the base models, what they lacked in variety they more than made up for in assembly and installation times.

Fortunately for cash-strapped homeowners, ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets give you the luxury of starting your project right away. They also offer many door styles and finish options to choose from. In addition, its quick-hook closure facilitates assembly. Flat packaging also allows for more convenient transport to the home.

To make ordinary cabinets feel even more like the real thing, homeowners should investigate the many customization options that today’s ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets provide. Accent molding, lazy Susans, pull-out trays, heat shields, fillers, light rails, matching baseboards, and special end panels can give the look of custom kitchen cabinets in the entry-level price range of cabinets in stock.

Once you’re ready to give your kitchen a custom look, start by visiting your local home improvement center. While you’re there, choose your favorite door style and finish. Next, plan and design the kitchen of your dreams. Finally, print your design and product checklist and bring it to your home improvement center. Use your checklist to select the appropriate cabinets in the specified quantity to complete your cabinet purchase. Soon, following a quick and easy installation process, your new kitchen cabinets will grace your kitchen walls and put a smile on your face.

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