If you are planning a budget kitchen remodel, there is a fair chance that you have already compared online RTA cabinets with cabinets available at Home Depot.
At first glance, it looks like a straightforward comparison of prices. In one case, you have an option from a trusted big-box store. In the other case, you have RTA cabinets, with available cabinet sizes and construction details shown online. However, when assembling an order for an entire kitchen, you suddenly find yourself questioning not just the price of one cabinet but your entire project.
This is why many cabinet comparisons seem difficult to comprehend. Even a lower price tag is not an indicator that the total costs for the installed kitchen will be reduced. Although cabinets may initially seem affordable, they can actually prove restrictive due to their size requirement, need for a finished end panel, and poor drawer construction. Alternatively, RTA cabinets could represent great value, provided that you do not mind assembling them or have someone who could do so professionally.
The following comparison should help you to make an informed decision, thus avoiding a simplistic approach based solely on the cost factor.
The Short Answer
Home Depot cabinets will work for you if you want to view the cabinets up close, make your purchase from a local store, and simplify your project with regular-size cabinets and a simple design.
Online ready-to-assemble cabinets could be right for you if you desire flexibility in regards to cabinet sizing, cabinet construction specifications, door samples, coordinating bathroom and kitchen cabinets, and complete cabinet list prior to ordering.
For many budget-minded kitchen remodeling projects, the ideal choice depends on three factors:
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How exacting you require your kitchen cabinet layout to be
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Whether you are comfortable assembling your own cabinets
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How important it is to you to know the cabinet box construction, drawer construction, hinges, and finishes used
Not every rental home upgrade project will use the same type of cabinet solution as a major primary kitchen remodel project. That is why you should explore options beyond the initial cost.
The Reason Homeowners Consider Comparing RTA Cabinets vs. Home Depot Cabinets
Homeowners aren't necessarily asking themselves “which cabinet is cheaper?” Most times, their question is, “What will provide a finished result without causing any headaches in the process?”
That's the right approach.
Buying kitchen cabinets isn't simply buying one product; it entails a complete system that includes base cabinets, wall cabinets, tall cabinets, doors, drawer boxes, shelves, toe kicks, fillers, panels, molding, and hardware. Without the right parts, it could lead to a half-done kitchen despite how affordable those cabinets were.
It is vital to note the importance of this fact in budget kitchen remodel projects, where there isn't much leeway left in case of error in planning. An absent filler, incorrect finished side, delayed replacement part, and incorrectly leveled cabinet run may impact your countertop template, appliance placement, and timeline.
In order to make a wise decision between RTA and Home Depot cabinets, it's best if you compare them in terms of the whole project.
Cost: Compare the Full Kitchen Cabinet Quote, Not Just One Cabinet
The most common error when comparing cabinets is focusing solely on the cost of one base cabinet.
An actual quotation for cabinets should take into consideration not just the cabinets themselves but also sides, paneling, fillers, toe kicks, any crown molding required, any light rails, decorative hardware, delivery, labor to assemble the cabinetry, and labor to install the cabinetry. Even if you are assembling and installing yourself, the labor cost needs to be taken into account. And if you have chosen to hire a contractor, assembly and installation need to be separated.
Stock cabinets at Home Depot might be easier because you can order locally and even view the products locally. There is an advantage in that regard. But stock cabinets often are cheaper for a reason. They may offer fewer sizes or fewer finish options or even fewer construction features.
Online RTA cabinets may look more attractive in terms of pricing, particularly after construction aspects like plywood boxes, soft-close hardware, or dovetail drawer boxes are compared. However, even RTA cabinets are subject to proper assembly, shipment verification, and installation planning.
A fair comparison cannot be “one Home Depot cabinet versus one RTA cabinet.” What is a fair comparison is the following:
How much does the kitchen cost overall when everything is said and done?
The former is much more relevant information than the latter.
Cabinet Construction: What Really Counts
Construction becomes an important factor where stress is highest: sink bases, drawer stacks, trash pull-outs, pantry cabinets, and commonly used base cabinets.
Do not accept general claims like “premium,” “builder grade” and “solid construction.” Each cabinet line may have their own interpretation of these phrases.
The specifics which matter are:
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Type of cabinet box
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Type of face frame and its thickness
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Type of drawer box and its joinery
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Thickness of the drawer bottom
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Type of hinges and glides
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Soft-close options
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Shelf thickness
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Inside cabinet finish
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Warranty conditions
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Replacement or claim procedure
At RTA Cabinets House, cabinet construction details may include a 1/2" plywood cabinet box, 3/4" solid wood face frame, 5-piece HDF doors and drawer fronts, dovetail drawer boxes, and soft-close hardware when applicable. Such specifics make comparisons more objective because you know exactly what goes into the cabinet.
It doesn't mean you have to spend all your budget on the best cabinet available. It means you need to know what you buy to place an order for your kitchen cabinets.
It is entirely possible to end up with an attractive-looking cabinet while having a cabinet that is totally different in terms of its box construction, drawer performance and hinge adjustment.
Style and Finish: Don't Choose from Photos Alone
Style is one of the major factors that make people decide whether to buy ready-to-assemble cabinets or Home Depot kitchen cabinets online. Shaker cabinets are an excellent choice as they fit different kitchen styles, including transitional, farmhouse, modern, coastal, rental-ready, and traditional kitchens.
However, the finish is equally important when selecting the cabinets.
While white shaker cabinets add brightness and spaciousness to a small kitchen, homeowners concerned about stains and cleaning may opt for grey cabinets which tend to be soft. The undertones of grey should go well with floors, countertops, backsplashes, and walls. On the other hand, dark cabinets create a luxurious and dramatic atmosphere yet not all people are happy with their choice in case of small and poorly lit kitchens.
That is why it makes sense to order sample cabinet doors before purchasing an entire kitchen, particularly when buying cabinets online.
Sample doors give you the opportunity to see how the cabinets will actually look in your home. You can place it alongside your flooring, countertop sample, backsplash, wall colors, and other appliances in your house. More significantly, you can observe it at different times of the day.
Photos are useful for inspiration. A sample door is better for making the final decision.
RTA Cabinet Assembly and Installation Are Not the Same Thing
One of the most important differences with RTA cabinets is assembly. RTA cabinets are not installed cabinets because they come unassembled and must be put together properly prior to their installation.
Putting a cabinet box together involves assembling it correctly, ensuring that all of its components are attached properly, making sure it is square, and preparing it for the installation process.
The installation of the cabinets entails other steps, such as leveling them, fixing them to the wall, making sure the doors and drawer fronts are aligned properly, installing any required filler, dealing with the issues that arise due to a sloped floor or crooked wall, scribing where necessary, and applying the trim.
It is possible for an experienced homeowner to assemble RTA cabinets, particularly if he or she possesses the necessary room, skills, tools, patience, and instruction. Nevertheless, installation is where many kitchens become professional-looking or experience difficulties.
If there are issues with out-of-square walls, a sloped floor, or tall cabinets, panels, refrigerator enclosures, or islands, then it might be advisable to hire a professional to install the cabinets despite assembling some of them yourself.
It is advisable to cut corners where possible while ensuring that you do not push yourself too hard with regard to those areas of the project that affect the finish.
Delivery and Damage Inspection Planning
Home Depot Cabinets & Online RTA Cabinets have two very different delivery experiences.
While you might inspect locally stocked cabinets or follow the local return procedures with your Home Depot store, you may experience different procedures when purchasing cabinets online. In many cases, the cabinet will likely be delivered via freight and be packaged on a pallet. That doesn't mean buying cabinets online is bad, but delivery day becomes a big deal.
Inspect your freight delivery carefully before signing for the delivery. Check the pallet, cartons, labels, and signs of damage. Take pictures prior to opening boxes. If a box looks crushed, dented, wet, or damaged in any way, take photos as documentation. Once you open your cabinet, look for damage right away.
This isn't just good customer service; it protects your timeline.
A missing drawer front or panel could delay cabinet installation, countertop templating, plumbing, and appliance installation. Therefore, having a claim process for comparing cabinet suppliers is important.
RTA Cabinets House has its own Claim Form, asking customers to check the shipment before accepting it. This kind of process is beneficial because orders of cabinets consist of numerous parts, and it is easy to solve any issues while they are still fresh.
When Home Depot Cabinets Make More Sense
Home Depot cabinets could be the more suitable choice for projects that are relatively simple, where proximity is a factor, and where you feel good about using the particular line you selected.
These could be the right cabinets when:
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You want to see cabinets in person before making a purchase
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Standard cabinet sizes are appropriate for your design
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Shopping through a well-known local retailer is a priority
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You are looking through the available stock of cabinets
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You want to coordinate materials for your entire remodel in one location
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You are okay with the materials, drawers, hinges, finish, and warranty of the specific line
Again, the critical point here is “specific line.”
There are various choices among Home Depot's cabinets, and quality can range between these choices. Therefore, saying that “Home Depot cabinets are good” or “Home Depot cabinets are bad” does not really tell the whole story. What you need to do is compare the particular line you chose.
In other words, look into cabinet box material, drawer construction, adjustable hinges, shelf thickness, finishes, and warranties.
When RTA Cabinets Might Be the Superior Choice
RTA cabinets will prove superior when:
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You require a full quote of your kitchen prior to purchasing
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You are comfortable comparing measurements and construction plans via internet
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You desire to order sample doors prior to selecting the finish
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Construction specifications are essential for you, including plywood boxes, dovetail drawers, and other factors
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Matching kitchens, vanities, pantry, and utility cabinetry are in your plan
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Cabinet assembly by yourself or professionals is possible for you
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You want to compare base cabinets, wall cabinets, tall cabinets, vanity cabinets, and cabinet accessories in one place.
Homeowners seeking an affordable and clean-shaker styled kitchen with solid construction and guidance in design can take advantage of online RTA cabinets. The best outcome will always be achieved with thorough measurement, ordering of samples, selection of cabinets and planning their delivery prior to demolition.
RTA cabinets are a choice which requires some pre-work. When layout is precisely measured, finish is confirmed with sample door and assembly or installation is thought through in advance, you get your kitchen finished without having to move into the expensive category of custom cabinetry.
Conclusion
When it comes to budget kitchen remodeling, the most suitable cabinet is not necessarily the one that is offered at the most affordable cost.
Home Depot cabinets can be handy for straightforward tasks and individuals who prefer purchasing furniture from local stores and seeing it in real life before making a purchase. RTA cabinets online can provide great quality and value as long as the buyer needs precise specifications of cabinetry construction, sample cabinet doors, help with design and planning, and a personalized cabinet list.
However, prior to selecting any kind of cabinet, take time and consider the whole project including its measurements, details about cabinetry construction, full list of cabinets, delivery, assembly, and installation. A good budget kitchen remodeling project can yield a neat result and can prove to be effective enough as long as preparation work is done right.