Cabinets – full

1. Construction Quality

Material
- Solid Wood: Offers durability and a classic look. Common woods include oak, maple, cherry, and hickory.
- Plywood: More stable and less prone to warping than particle board. Often used for cabinet boxes and shelves.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Smooth surface, good for painted finishes, but can be less durable if exposed to moisture.
- Particle Board: Less expensive but can be less durable, especially if not covered by a veneer or laminate.

Joinery
- Dovetail Joints: Strong and durable, often used for drawer construction.
- Mortise and Tenon Joints: Common in high-quality cabinetry, providing strong connections.
- Cam Locks: Used in modular cabinets for easy assembly but can be less durable over time.

Construction Techniques
- Frameless (European Style): Offers a sleek, modern look with more interior space. Cabinets have no face frame.
- Framed: Traditional style with a face frame that adds strength and allows for more customization.

2. Finish and Aesthetics
Finish Types
- Paint: Provides a smooth, uniform appearance and can be customized to any color. Be aware of potential chipping and wear.
- Stain: Enhances the natural grain of the wood and can range from light to dark hues.
- Laminate: Offers a wide variety of colors and patterns. It’s durable and easy to clean but can be less visually appealing than real wood.
- Veneer: Thin slices of wood glued onto a core panel. Offers the look of solid wood but can be less durable.

Style
- Traditional: Features ornate details, raised panels, and decorative moldings.
- Modern: Clean lines, minimalistic design, and often frameless.
- Transitional: A blend of traditional and modern elements for a balanced look.


3. Functionality

Storage Options
- Shelving: Adjustable shelves allow for customization of storage space.
- Drawers: Consider soft-close or full-extension drawers for ease of use and access.
- Pull-Outs: Options like lazy Susans, pull-out pantries, or trash pull-outs can maximize space and convenience.
Hardware
- Hinges: Look for adjustable hinges for precise alignment and ease of installation.
- Handles and Knobs: Choose hardware that complements the cabinet style and is comfortable to use.
- Slides: Full-extension slides allow for easy access to the entire drawer, while soft-close slides prevent slamming.

4. Sizing and Dimensions

Cabinet Size
- Standard Dimensions: Ensure cabinets fit your space and align with standard sizes for easy installation.
- Custom Sizes: For unique spaces, consider custom cabinets to fit specific measurements and requirements.
Height and Depth
- Base Cabinets: Typically 34.5 inches high and 24 inches deep. Check if you need custom heights or depths.
- Wall Cabinets: Standard height is 30 to 42 inches, with depths ranging from 12 to 24 inches.

5. Installation and Maintenance

Ease of Installation
- Pre-Assembled: Ready-to-install cabinets can save time, but may be more expensive.
- RTA (Ready-to-Assemble): Can be more cost-effective but requires assembly. Ensure you have the skills or resources for proper assembly.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Consider how easy it is to clean the finish and surfaces.
- Durability: Choose materials and finishes that will withstand the wear and tear typical in your space.

6. Cost and Warranty

Budget
- Cost Range: Cabinets vary widely in price depending on materials, construction, and customization. Set a budget and look for options within that range.
Warranty
- Coverage: Check the warranty details for the cabinets. A good warranty can cover defects in material or workmanship and provide peace of mind.


7. Design and Customization

Cabinet Layout
- Configuration: Consider the layout of your kitchen or bathroom and how the cabinets will fit into the space. Custom designs can optimize functionality and aesthetics.
Customization Options
- Add-Ons: Look for options like built-in lighting, specialized inserts (e.g., utensil trays), and custom finishes.


By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select full cabinets that meet your aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and budget, ensuring a successful and satisfying cabinetry project.