Cabinets 101
Stock, custom & semi-custom cabinets
Stock Cabinets
Cabinets that are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and styles, offering a budget-friendly and quick solution for kitchen or bathroom cabinetry. While options are more limited in terms of finishes and configurations, they’re a great choice for simple projects with tight timelines.
Semi-Custom Cabinets
Semi-custom cabinets provide more flexibility than stock cabinets. You can choose from a wider range of styles, finishes, and materials, and make modifications to dimensions or features to better suit your space. They offer a balance of personalization and affordability.
Custom Cabinets
The cabinets are made-to-order to fit your exact specifications. Every detail—from the layout to the materials, finishes, and storage features—is tailored to your vision. Ideal for unique spaces or specific design preferences, custom cabinetry offers the highest level of craftsmanship and design freedom.
MDF vs Plywood Cabinets
Plywood Cabinets
Made from layers of wood veneer glued together, plywood is known for its strength and durability. It’s resistant to moisture, holds screws well, and tends to last longer—making it a great option for kitchen and bathroom cabinets where humidity is a factor. While it’s typically more expensive, many homeowners find the investment worthwhile for its longevity.
MDF Cabinets
MDF is made from fine wood fibers compressed into a dense, smooth board. It’s more affordable than plywood and offers a super smooth surface, perfect for painted finishes. However, MDF is more susceptible to moisture damage and can swell if exposed to water, so it may not be the best option in high-humidity areas unless properly sealed.
Cabinet Overlay
Standard Overlay
Also known as partial overlay, this traditional style leaves a portion of the cabinet frame visible around the doors and drawers—usually about 1" to 1.25". It’s a classic, budget-friendly option that provides a timeless look and allows for easier hardware installation.
Full Overlay
Full overlay cabinets feature doors and drawers that cover nearly the entire face frame, leaving only a minimal gap between them. This creates a seamless, modern appearance and offers more storage space inside, thanks to wider openings.
Inset
Inset cabinets have doors and drawers that sit flush inside the frame opening, creating a clean, custom-built look. It’s a high-end, tailored style that showcases precise craftsmanship. Because of the tight fit, this style may require more maintenance due to natural wood movement.
Framed vs Frameless
Framed Cabinets
These feature a classic design with a face frame that adds dimension and strength to the cabinet box. Doors attach to the frame, offering a variety of overlay styles—from traditional to modern. This option is ideal for those who appreciate timeless craftsmanship and customizable design elements.
Frameless Cabinets
Also known as European-style cabinets, offer a sleek, contemporary look. Without a face frame, the cabinet box allows for full-access interiors and cleaner lines. This streamlined style maximizes storage space and lends itself well to modern aesthetics.
