So you've decided that new kitchen cabinets are in order. Now the question remains: Do you go the slow and more expensive route with custom cabinets or opt for the quicker and less costly alternative with prefabricated cabinets? Both choices present various pros and cons, so you'll want to do your homework before making a final decision. If quality and craftsmanship are your top priority, a kitchen design expert may be steering you toward custom kitchen cabinets. But those on a limited budget will be happy to learn that prefabricated cabinets from a reputable cabinetry manufacturer can almost match their more expensive counterparts on both counts.



If you're still wavering, it's no wonder. So here are some important considerations that can help make the custom versus prefabricated kitchen cabinets decision an easier one.

1. In terms of cost, a comparison is necessary. That's because just like custom cabinetry, prefabricated cabinets run the gamut from modular to high end. And on that high end, in a perfect example of ‘you get what you pay for,' you may run into prefabricated kitchen cabinets that are as expensive as some custom cabinets. Quality and cost should be a tag team when conducting kitchen cabinet price comparisons.

2. If you're in a rush, no doubt about it, prefabricated kitchen cabinets will save you time. In fact, if you want custom kitchen cabinets, expect to wait one to two months for delivery.

3. If you want a style that's custom designed or your kitchen cabinet setup requires odd or unique sizes, then custom cabinetry may be necessary. However, you might be surprised by the wide array of prefabricated kitchen cabinet styles out there. A broad and varied selection of kitchen cabinets can be found at you nearest home design center.

4. When it comes to kitchen cabinet finishes, your options are nearly as wide as those for custom kitchen cabinets. Whether it's a clean white, a natural wood, a glossy rich brown or a homey burgundy finish you're seeking, a leading prefabricated cabinetry manufacturer can likely fill the bill.

5. Because they can vary so widely between and even among custom and prefabricated kitchen cabinets, the material, joinery, hinges and pulls of the doors should be carefully examined and compared for quality and craftsmanship.

6. With custom cabinetry, especially if your kitchen has odd sizes and unique angles, you're probably going to have to pay for professional installation. If you're somewhat handy in the carpentry department, however, you may be able to bypass this added expense with prefabricated kitchen cabinets and install them yourself.

7. Last but certainly not least, the reputation of the cabinetmaker is critical. For custom cabinetry, consult your local chamber of commerce and ask for referrals. Your best bet is word of mouth. If you've decided to go with prefabricated kitchen cabinets, look for a leading manufacturer that prides itself on quality, value and service. A few ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinet manufacturers recognize that high quality can—and should—go with affordable pricing. To that end, look for a kitchen cabinet line that offers lifetime warranties, is retailed at popular prices and can be assembled quickly.