Custom vs. Prefab Cabinets: Which Is Right for Your Kitchen?

They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and cabinets serve as both decorative and functional pieces in the space. When you are remodeling your kitchen, one decision you will make is which cabinets to install: custom or prefabricated. Custom cabinets are high quality and allow you to maximize your space, while prefab cabinets are the less expensive option and offer same-day delivery. This pros and cons list will guide you through the differences between custom vs. prefab cabinets.

Custom Cabinets

Custom cabinets are designed to fit your kitchen and its spatial constraints. These cabinets allow you to choose the materials, finish, features, and physical dimensions that best match your home style.

Pro - Maximize Your Space

Perhaps the best advantage of custom cabinetry is that they are designed and built to fit the exact dimensions of your kitchen. They are very versatile and allow you to modify their depth, width, or height, maximizing an oddly-sized wall or corner. It is also easy to accommodate unusual features like pot drawers or pull-out pantries to make each cabinet as functional as possible.

Pro - High Quality

Custom kitchen cabinets are made from high-quality materials typically handcrafted by professionals with years of experience. Since you have the freedom to choose their material, you can opt for a durable alternative like solid wood.

Con - Longer Wait Time

Since they are custom-made, these cabinets take longer to arrive than prefab cabinets. In some cases, you may have to wait up to three months to receive your custom cabinets. They may not be the best option if your remodel needs to get completed on a tight schedule.

Prefab Cabinets

“Prefab” cabinets is short for prefabricated cabinets. They are stock cabinets manufactured in advance of when they are purchased by a consumer. Prefab cabinets come in standard sizes and are made from specific materials.

Pro - Inexpensive

One pro of prefab cabinets is their low price point. While you can opt for a more expensive option, these cabinets are generally less spendy than their customized counterparts. They are an affordable option if you are remodeling your kitchen on a budget or want to splurge in other areas of the space instead.

Pro - Fast Delivery

Since they are manufactured ahead of time, prefab cabinets can arrive in as little as three days. In some cases, you can take your premade doors and drawers home the same day you purchase them. This saves you time, money, and frustration during your remodel, allowing your project to stay on track.

Con - Limited Choices

Prefab cabinets offer fewer design choices than a custom build. You will have to work with the material and color options that the manufacturer chose. They also come in predetermined dimensions that might not fit your kitchen if you have a unique space. However, you can add new hardware or paint to customize them to the style of your home.

Prefab Cabinets at The Window Depot

The Window Depot is your source for prefabricated cabinets. We offer a full line of prefab cabinets made by brands like Continental Cabinetry, which come in four colors: Andover pewter, Andover white, Hamilton hickory, and unfinished beach. Visit our storefront or website to see our in-stock availability and pricing.