Source: Fort Point Cabinetmakers

While some people may not realize it, replacing your kitchen cabinetry can account for up to 60 percent of the total cost of a kitchen renovation. This is money well spent though, considering that your cabinetry selection will help to define the overall look of your kitchen.

As Fort Point Cabinetmakers, we always tell homeowners that the pricier cabinetry options don’t always mean quality. The definition of good kitchen cabinets is not only how good they look, but also how they perform and stand up to time.

As you consider your options for kitchen cabinetry, here are some signs of true quality craftsmanship to be on the lookout for:

• Attention to detail and craftsmanship. Always test out cabinets to see how well they open and close, as well as feel the interior and exterior surfaces.
• Plywood construction. Cabinetry made of plywood are tough and durable and will help to stand up to everyday wear and tear. Generally, the harder the wood, the better the quality.
• Sturdy hardware. This applies to both the drawer and cabinet hardware and should allow for the drawers and cabinets to be fully opened without difficulty. A new trend in kitchen design is soft close drawers, which can help to extend the life of your cabinetry.
• Finishes. It’s important to consider that your cabinetry will likely be exposed to spills, temperature variances, dropped objects, dirty hands and much more, so consider how your choice of finish will stand up to everyday life.
• Warranty. Does your cabinetry offer a warranty? Ideally, you should be able to get at least a 1 year minimum warranty.

To learn more about some of the signs of quality to look for, please contact me, Richard Oedel.