Of all the choices in cabinetry, custom cabinets offer the greatest flexibility and choices for the homeowner. Custom cabinets are completely handmade from inception, including choice of wood, style, design, size and shape. For homeowners looking for a completely unique kitchen design, custom kitchen cabinets are the best option.

Custom Cabinetry Layout

For many homeowners, the kitchen is the heart and center of their home. As such, they want their kitchen design and layout to reflect their family lifestyle and decor. Custom cabinetry is one of the key elements of creating a unique kitchen.

One of the first tasks in creating a new kitchen design or remodel is designing the kitchen layout. It is during this task that the homeowner is able to select elements such as counter height, size and shape of each cabinet, shelving, pantry storage and drawers. Custom cabinets can be constructed to meet the exact specifications of the homeowner. For homeowners with unique needs, custom kitchen cabinets offer the excellent opportunity to have variations that meet those needs. For example, some homeowners choose to have several counter heights to accommodate family members who are different heights, or to provide specific work areas for different tasks.

Materials

There are a wide variety of materials that can be used when constructing custom kitchen cabinetry. The most common material is wood. Common woods used for kitchen cabinets include oak, maple, and cherry. It is not uncommon for the doors and outer surfaces to be covered with wood laminate and the interior material to be particle board or plywood.

Other materials that are commonly used for constructing kitchen cabinetry are metal or plastic laminate. It is also not uncommon to see doors that include glass inserts, particularly stained glass or sandblasted patterned glass.

Selecting an Expert Installer

When considering having custom kitchen cabinets constructed and installed, it is very important to use the services of an expert installer who has experience and knowledge of this special kind of cabinetry.

One source for finding a recommended installer is to ask at home improvement centers or local real estate agents. Ask for references, and what potential problems might be experienced with the type of kitchen remodeling project you have in mind.

It is usually suggested that three estimates should give you a good idea of what the reasonable costs are for your project. Make sure the estimate includes all of the potential costs, including materials, disposal of old cabinets, and labor.

Also, check to see if the installer is licensed and bonded by checking with your state contractor's board.

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