Cabinetry: A Guide To Purchasing

The art to having great cabinetry lies in planning. There is no shortage of great vendors out there, replete with technicians and carpenters that can bring life to your previously dreary kitchen. But if you make a mistake in the planning stages, you could find yourself unhappy with the results. What may have worked for you in another kitchen may not work in this one. What you find aesthetically pleasing in your neighbors' house could look terrible in yours. Here is a guide to help you purchase the right set.

First, you want to hammer down your size considerations. A big part of cabinetry is aesthetics—no doubt about it. However, without function, they will become frustrating decorative pieces. Many a homeowner has regretted not spending more time on function as opposed to form. Measure, and measure again. Make a list of everything you want to store and make sure you are getting something that will have plenty of room. Storage areas that are too small will lead to headaches in a hurry. 

When you move into the vendor-choosing stage of your search, make sure you visit more than one place. You could be missing out on a great deal by confining yourself to the first place you go. You'll likely find a wide disparity in customer service, selection, and price. It's up to you to do your research and find out first hand where you can find the best combination of the three. Select a style you like by keeping in mind the overall look of your home and kitchen. A set of cabinets may look positively amazing in the showroom, but that doesn't mean they will look right in your decorative scheme.

When factoring in price, realize that cabinetry earns its pricing on a number of factors. Popularity, trendy designs, and brand names will all play a part. However—more than in many other retail situations—quality of the building materials is going to speak the loudest. What this means is you're dealing with one of the few industries where "you get what you pay for" is still a viable motto. If you want something that lasts, understand that you aren't going to want the cheapest set in the store.

Consult with the salespeople, but recognize the difference between a salesperson who is genuinely trying to help you and one who is just trying to get the biggest commission. This is a talent that comes with experience, but watch out for any salesperson who is fighting you on the specifications you want from your set.