Can A Stock Cabinet Make
An Award Winning Kitchen?

A stock cabinet is normally plain and unfinished. The quality level is usually the lowest of all cabinet types. This is not always the case though, manufacturers are realizing that stock cabinets can be made as well as the more expensive cabinets while keeping the price down.

The choices available are limited. It is what you see is what you get. The door panel choices are widening and the quality levels are improving as well. This is great for the budget minded individual who can't afford the higher priced options, and is also good for the DIYers out there.

"Off the shelf" cabinets normally come unfinished and need to be finished by the homeowner or a professional. These cabinets also are less refined in the manufacturing process so more preparation is needed to get them ready to finish. This involves sanding and sealing the wood to get a good finish.

Knowing what to look for in cabinet construction could lead to a great find at a great price. These cabinets are mass produced so the price is quite a bit lower. The quality could also be lacking quite a bit as well. Knowing what to look for, and comparing it to the overall price will get you the best bang for your buck.

Because these cabinets usually come unfinished, they lend themselves to an unending range of finishing techniques. Such as painting them in a crackle finish or a wild colored stain combination that only you can come up with.

A great option is to buy stock cabinets and have them finished by a professional who has a workshop and the know-how to get the best finish. This way cabinets can be finished in a controlled environment. Or if you or someone you know has knowledge of finishing techniques these cabinets could also be finished in your own garage, shed, or basement.

The sizes are limited and offer very little in the way of flexibility. They start at 12 inches and increase in 3 inch increments up to 48 inches. This may seem like enough size options but 1/4 of an inch can make a big difference in what cabinets can fit into your kitchen.

Another way to get more usability from these cabinets is to use Rev-A-Shelf storage solutions. By maximizing the storage usability will enhance your cabinets without breaking the bank.

Now the pro's and con's

Pro's

• Inexpensive
• Good for the DIYer
• Any finishing option possible
• Can be delivered or picked up immediately

Con's

• Most come unfinished
• Sizes are very limited
• Normally low quality, but not always
• Extra preparation needed before finishing

Stock cabinets can be used to make an award winning kitchen. All that is needed is a quality cabinet and good finishing techniques. This is possible for a significantly lower price than a custom kitchen. A great kitchen at a great price if you know what to look for.

Go To Custom Cabinets

Go To Semi-Custom Cabinets

Return from Stock Cabinet to Quality Levels

Go To Kitchen Remodeling Ideas Home Page