What is the difference between Custom and Prefab Cabinets?
While they are both great options, prefab cabinets and custom cabinets are very different. Prefab cabinets are created by manufacturers and then presented to consumers to buy them as they are, pre-made. With prefab cabinets, there’s no customization of size, finish, depth, etc. Prefab cabinets are far more cost-effective and are a great way to switch up your kitchen’s look without breaking the bank. Prefab cabinets also have a quicker delivery and installation time, making your renovation shorter. Custom cabinets can be designed and tailored to fit a homeowner’s needs or vision. While more expensive, custom cabinets allow homeowners to optimize their space and storage needs by designing and arranging the cabinets to perfectly fit their homes. Custom cabinets can be personalized by size, design, finish, depth, color, and many other factors. Both custom and prefab cabinets are great options for homeowners looking to update their cabinets and look of their kitchens.
What to Consider when Buying Custom Cabinets
While they can be more costly, custom cabinets offer many great qualities to consider. Custom cabinets allow homeowners to get the most use and storage out of their kitchen space, as the homeowners can choose the size, design, and arrange the cabinets. Custom cabinets are typically more expensive due to the materials used to make them, building/design costs, installation costs, and quality. Custom cabinets also tend to have a longer lifespan as they’re more durable.
Pros of Buying Custom Cabinets
- Durability
- Customizable
- Increases home value
- Can get the most use of space
Cons of Buying Custom Cabinets
- Expensive
- Made from scratch (can take longer)
- Long installation period
- More room for error (uneven staining)
What to Consider when Buying Prefab Cabinets
Prefab cabinets are definitely a great option to consider if you’re looking for a less expensive option. Prefab cabinets are manufactured and then purchased by homeowners, as-is. Homeowners can purchase cabinets of certain sizes, depths, finishes, etc. These pieces are not customizable and go directly from the manufacturer to the consumer. With prefab cabinets, you can guarantee a lower cost, a uniform look between cabinets, and faster installation.
Pros of Buying Prefab Cabinets
- Less expensive
- Can be delivered quickly
- Can be installed quickly
- Guaranteed uniform look
Cons of Buying Prefab Cabinets
- Made from lower-quality materials
- Less durable
- Shorter lifespan
- More design limitations
Are Custom Cabinets more Expensive?
Yes, custom cabinets are almost always more expensive than any other cabinet designs. Custom cabinets are more costly for many reasons. Custom cabinets are made from scratch specifically from design plans that are custom to your home. They are made from high-quality materials that have a longer lifespan due to their durability. Homeowners can design and create the perfect cabinet design to fit their storage needs and personal aesthetic. With custom cabinets, homeowners can personalize all aspects of the cabinet- from size to arrangement, depth, color, and finish. While more costly, custom cabinets can often increase the value of your home since they are made custom to your home’s design, are made from durable and high-quality materials, and have a long lifespan.
Installation Costs – Custom versus Prefab
The installation costs of cabinets can vary but they are often based on linear feet. Many companies charge for installation per linear foot of materials. For prefab cabinets, the average cost can range from about $100 to $500 per linear foot. For custom cabinets, the average cost of around $500 to $1,200 per linear foot. Remember that these estimates are also dependent on the size of your kitchen and the size of the cabinets that you plan to install.
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We have four convenient showrooms in northern New Jersey, so there’s no reason not to stop in if you’re local and looking at a kitchen or bathroom remodel. If you’re ready for an upgrade, call the experts! Our team can turn any kitchen, bathroom, wet bar, and more into the perfect space for anything from swanky gatherings to low-key, relaxation zones. We also offer free kitchen design with a professional designer. Get started today and visit any of our in-person showrooms for a customized, affordable-luxury experience. We also have two modern and spacious showrooms in the Palm Beach County Florida area!