Pros & Cons of Assembled Kitchen Cabinets – You Must Know

Choosing suitable kitchen cabinets can become confusing, with unlimited choices and alternatives. One popular option for kitchen cabinets among homeowners is ready-to-assemble or assembled kitchen cabinets. If you are deliberating on whether to choose assembled kitchen cabinets or not, we are here to help! 

To help you make an informed choice, we present a balanced view of the pros and cons and root our discussion in established research and substantial evidence. For more depth, you can check out this research study on kitchen cabinetry, which also focuses on assembled kitchen cabinets: Consumer Reports – Kitchen Cabinet Buying Guide.

 Below, we weigh in on the pros and cons of assembled kitchen cabinets in this comprehensive guide.

Pros Of Assembled Kitchen Cabinets

One of the primary benefits of assembled kitchen cabinets is the convenience and speed of installation. As these cabinets are pre-assembled, they save time and make the installation process easier. You can get your kitchen ready and functional within a day or two.

Here are some of the most significant advantages:

1. Ready To Install: The main advantage of pre-assembled kitchen cabinets is that they come fully assembled and ready to install. The units are assembled completely, saving time you would have spent assembling ready-to-assemble cabinetry.
2. High Quality And Durable Materials: Many assembled cabinets are made from high-quality plywood. This ensures their durability and long-lasting design. The strength of plywood often surpasses that of particle board, making it a superior option.
3. Variety In Design And Style: Assembled kitchen cabinets come in various styles and designs to suit your aesthetic preference. For instance, you could opt for a Shaker style with a classic recessed panel design. The White Shaker, in particular, is a popular choice for its timeless style and versatility.
4. Easy Shopping Experience: Shopping for pre-assembled kitchen cabinets has never been easier. You can simply shop online from the comfort of your home. Stone International’s feature helps you choose the best cabinet style, design, and color to match your kitchen.
5. Save Time: With pre-assembled cabinets, you can assemble the units. Instead, you can focus on the installation process and ensure it’s done correctly.
6. No Assembly Required: Unlike ready-to-assemble cabinets, assembled kitchen cabinets do not require any assembly. They come fully assembled and ready for installation. This can be a massive advantage for those who might not be confident with DIY assembly.
7. Best Price Guarantee: We offer the best price guarantee on their assembled cabinets. This means you can be confident you’re getting a high-quality product at the best possible price.

Cons Of Assembled Kitchen Cabinets

While assembled kitchen cabinets have numerous benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider before making a purchase decision. Here are some of the more common objections:

1. Higher Cost: Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets often cost more upfront than ready-to-assemble options. This is mainly due to the convenience factor of receiving a cabinet that’s already assembled and ready for installation.
2. Limited Customization: When choosing assembled cabinets, the customization options are more limited than ready-to-assemble cabinets. Most pre-assembled cabinets come in standard sizes and styles, such as the popular shaker design with a recessed panel.
3. Need For Professional Installation: Pre-assembled cabinets, while time-saving, usually require professional installation due to their size and weight. This can subsequently increase the remodel cost.
4. Less Space Flexibility: Pre-assembled cabinets might not be ideal if your kitchen has unique dimensions or an unconventional layout. In contrast, you can adjust your design with RTA cabinets to fit any kitchen size and configuration.
5. Not As Convenient For Online Shopping: Although you can shop online for assembled cabinets, receiving them can be inconvenient due to their size and weight.
6. Drawer Adjustments: The drawers on pre-assembled kitchen cabinets tend to have less adjustability than their ready-to-assemble counterparts, possibly limiting your storage options.

Key Factors To Consider When Choosing Pre-Assembled Kitchen Cabinets

When shopping for pre-assembled kitchen cabinets, particularly if you’re remodeling, there are some crucial factors to remember.

The finish and shade of your kitchen cabinet can dramatically impact the aesthetics of your kitchen. From a white shaker to a rich, dark-toned shaker, the look and finish significantly contribute to the overall feel of your space. 

Storage space is a top concern. Beyond the general cabinet space, consider the number of drawers available. More drawers provide better organization opportunities and easy access to your kitchen items.

Though we’re focusing on assembled cabinets, a ready-to-assemble cabinet is still worth considering. They offer flexibility and personalization, which are strengths over their pre-assembled counterparts.

Ready-made cabinets come in assorted collections, each with different designs and styles, like recessed panel cabinets or traditional shakers. Choose a collection that resonates with your kitchen vision.

Popular Assembled Kitchen Cabinet Designs

When planning your dream kitchen design, your choice of cabinets is crucial. Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets arrive fully assembled and ready to install, saving you time and labor. Here are some popular cabinet styles:

• White Shaker: This timeless design is a top choice. The white shaker cabinet is versatile, blending gracefully with various kitchen styles. Its recessed panel and clean lines create a minimalist finish without compromising quality.
• Other Cabinet Styles: Besides the shaker, other popular assembled kitchen cabinet designs include traditional raised panels, contemporary slab, and rustic distressed styles. These options cater to different preferences, ensuring a tailored look for all kitchens.
• Cabinet Collection: A cohesive cabinet collection is essential when remodeling as it unifies the overall aesthetic. Choose an assortment that complements your desired kitchen style for the best results.

Common Questions About Pre-Assembled Cabinets

When shopping online for pre-assembled kitchen cabinets, certain questions often arise. Understanding these specifics will ensure a smoother remodel.

1. What is the cost difference between pre-assembled and custom kitchen cabinets?

The cost of pre-assembled kitchen cabinets depends on factors like the size of your kitchen and the material of the cabinets you choose. It is generally considered less expensive than custom kitchen cabinets, but the cost can significantly vary.

2. How easy is it to install pre-assembled kitchen cabinets?

Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets are designed to save time and simplify the installation process. They are ideal for homeowners who wish to DIY their kitchen remodel. You or your contractor can install them.

3. Can I get a custom look with pre-assembled cabinets?

Pre-assembled cabinets can mimic the appearance of custom cabinets, eliminating the time and possible hassle of doing everything from scratch.

4. What are the shipping considerations?

Pre-assembled cabinets are bulkier and heavier, which can increase shipping costs. However, they are packaged to prevent damage during transit.

5. How well do pre-assembled cabinets fit?

If your kitchen has standard dimensions, pre-assembled cabinets can fit perfectly. However, custom cabinets might better fit unusual dimensions or irregular corners.

In conclusion, choosing between assembled and custom kitchen cabinets largely depends on your specific needs, budget, and design preferences. Analyzing these pros and cons can certainly assist you in making an informed decision. 

Regardless, no matter what you choose, the main goal is to create a kitchen in which you’ll love cooking for many years to come!