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16 Dec.,2024

 

Are RTA Cabinets Worth It?

Ready-to-assemble (RTA) kitchen cabinets offer homeowners an option to save money on kitchen remodeling&#;though this option comes with a time and labor cost. Rather than ready-to-hang cabinets, these cabinets are delivered in parts in a flat pack, along with all the hardware needed for assembly. Because you do the assembling yourself, you can cut costs significantly by spending more time assembling your cabinets. You still get all of the design choices and material options that you'd find with other cabinets, and there's a wide range of price points. You can choose higher or lower quality cabinets, and the price will reflect that.

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Before you start shopping for new kitchen cabinets, first consider whether refacing your cabinets could be a better option. It's more affordable and easier, but RTA is a better option if you have to replace cracked or broken cabinets on a budget. Them if RTA is the right path, take the time to learn more about RTA cabinets. Our comprehensive guide will take you through what to look for when buying RTA cabinets, approximate costs, assembling, and more.

What Are RTA Cabinets?

RTA cabinets are cabinets that come flat packed with all of the pieces and holes ready to go and, yes, ready to assemble. When you order RTA cabinets, all of the parts have been cut to size, holes have been drilled where needed, and any cabinet finishes you requested have been applied. Then the parts are stacked and wrapped. You can bring them home from the store, if they have them in stock, or have them shipped to your home.

You then face the job of assembling and installing the cabinets. They should have instructions included, but these may be mostly drawings and steps with minimal or no written guidance. Some also have a link to online videos that show how to assemble your cabinets.

Cost

When you look at the cost for regular cabinets vs. RTA, you'll see that you save significantly with RTA. Regular cabinets will cost $50 to $150 per linear foot, while RTA are $30 to $100. That adds up significantly throughout a kitchen. And, depending on the size of your kitchen, regular cabinets could run you as low as $2,000 or all the way up to $26,000 and beyond. Meanwhile, RTA cabinets can be as affordable as half the price of pre-assembled cabinets.

However, your cost of kitchen cabinets can vary significantly depending on such factors as cabinet materials, finish, complexity, and degree of completion.

Kitchen cabinets are often priced by the linear foot, which is simply the horizontal distance along the wall that will be filled with cabinets. The linear foot cost typically includes both upper (wall) and bottom (base) cabinets in one price. Depending on the mix of low-cost and expensive options you choose, kitchen cabinets for a full kitchen can range from roughly $250 per linear foot to $750 or more.

Make sure to get price quotes for comparable products from two or three suppliers. It's possible you might have to price out separate suppliers for the cabinet boxes, doors, and hardware. RTA cabinet suppliers are usually helpful in suggesting sources for the other materials, and you should be able to do this work online.

Most Affordable

For more affordable RTA cabinets, consider cabinets with white, melamine-coated, particleboard cabinet boxes and drawers; flat panel doors; and unfinished elements that you paint yourself.

Average

Coming in at the middle of the price range are veneered plywood cabinet boxes and hardwood face frames. One of the biggest cost factors has to do with the level of complexity, so these cabinets will typically be standard depth and size.

Most Expensive

The most expensive RTA cabinets include solid wood doors, and dovetailed drawers. Cabinets in odd sizes and with angles can cost more, as can accessories such as crown molding or interior lighting.

Pros and Cons

Pros of RTA Cabinets

  • Lower Cost: Because there's less labor and less room required for flat pack shipping, the cost is significantly lower than other cabinets.
  • Shorter Lead Time: Typically, RTA cabinets are at your door sooner than regular cabinets.
  • Easy to Install: It's easy to learn how to install RTA cabinets, especially with a large library of tutorials available online.
  • High-Quality Materials: Ready-to-assemble doesn't mean lower quality. These cabinets are available in high-quality materials, including solid wood.
  • Customizable: You can customize RTA cabinets in the same way you'd customize regular cabinets. The material, finish, and size options are nearly endless.

Cons of RTA Cabinets

  • DIY Install: While you could hire someone to install your RTA cabinets, typically, you're the one doing the installing.
  • Time: DIY installing takes time! This isn't going to be an overnight project.
  • No Warranty: Since they're not being installed by a professional, manufacturers typically won't offer a guarantee or warranty with RTA cabinets.

Buying Considerations for RTA Cabinets

Quality

You can buy RTA cabinets that are every bit as strong and attractive as anything you find in a kitchen showroom, and you should avoid cabinets with stapled particleboard drawers, integrated rail drawer guides, and doors made of veneered particleboard or medium-density fiberboard (MDF).

The features of a quality cabinet include:

  • Solid wood drawers with dovetail joinery
  • Full-extension drawer guides
  • Doors that have a solid wood frame, with panels made either of solid wood or plywood
  • Finishes and coating applied by brush rather than sprayed on

While you can check these features in person at a store, you can also request a door sample when buying online.

Assembly

Most RTA cabinets only need glue, wood dowels, and screws, all of which should be supplied with the cabinets, along with clear instructions. Cabinets, drawers, and doors are predrilled for attaching hardware and hinges. Often, the only tool you will need for assembly is a screwdriver.

However, it's a good idea to refer to online videos showing how your cabinets are assembled, if available.

Types of RTA Cabinets

Beyond the style of the cabinet, there is also the cabinet overlay which is something that should be considered for any type of cabinetry you purchase, not just RTA cabinets. This has to do with the way the cabinet door sits on the frame of the cabinet. There are three cabinet overlay types: partial overlay, full overlay, and inset overlay.

Partial Overlay

The partial overlay is the most popular and standard type of cabinet. This overlay leaves some space between cabinet doors and drawers, and hardware is not always necessary. The partial overlay offers a more traditional and classical look and is the least expensive type of cabinet to purchase.

Full Overlay

The full overlay type of cabinet covers the entire front of the cabinet frame. Where the cabinet doors meet, there is little to no space between them. Hardware needs to be attached to allow you the ability to open and close cabinets and doors. The sleek full overlay allows a bit larger storage capacity and easier access to items in the cupboards.

Inset

Inset cabinet doors fit on the inside of the frame, making them lay flush with the cabinet frame. The entire frame is exposed to view and the cabinet's door edges are protected and less easy to nick or damage. This type is typically more expensive than either the partial or full overlay.

How to Choose RTA Cabinets

It all comes down to personal preference regarding style, color, and finish when choosing your cabinets for your kitchen or bathroom. But here are a few factors to consider.

Space

Knowing exactly how much space you have for each cabinet is critical. Get the measuring tape out and measure once, twice, and three times to ensure you have the correct calculations before purchasing. Measure for length, width, and height for each cabinet you need to buy. If you don't feel comfortable doing this, hire a professional to ensure you get exactly what size you need.

Features

When choosing cabinets look for features such as a soft-close mechanism, vertical dividers, trash pull out, corner storage, and if replacement parts are available. These extra amenities can make life easier for you as you cook and enjoy your kitchen. They also make it easier for you to set up and store your kitchen items. 

How Long Do You Plan to Stay Where You Are?

New kitchen cabinets are a big investment. Take into consideration how long you are planning to stay in your home. Is it long-term? Or are you getting the house ready and updated to sell? This should guide how much you want to spend on kitchen cabinets.

Where to Shop

For more premade cabinetsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

You can find RTA cabinets at some big-box stores (IKEA, Home Depot, Lowe's, and Costco), but a much broader selection is available from online retailers. Buying at a store allows you to interact with the staff, who may be able to help explain the differences in the cabinets available and give advice on your room layout. These types of services may also be available at some online retailers, with some sites having the ability to create a custom layout and display photorealistic renderings of the room.

FAQ

  • How do you assemble RTA cabinets?

    RTA cabinets go together with wood dowels, screws, and glue. Instructions are usually provided in the form of videos or written ones, to assist you in putting them together.

  • How long does it take to assemble RTA cabinets?

    If you're a novice handyman, it should take approximately 45 minutes to one hour to assemble each cabinet. As you progress in the assembly line of cabinets, you might get a bit quicker.

  • How long will RTA cabinets last?

    The typical lifespan of a good quality constructed RTA cabinet should last around 20 years or more. This also depends on the correct installation and proper care and maintenance throughout the years.

  • Are RTA cabinets worth it?

    RTA cabinets are great when you're trying to quickly renovate a kitchen on a budget, yet they're high quality enough to last for decades. Yes, they're worth it!

  • Why are RTA cabinets so cheap?

    With RTA cabinets, you're cutting out both the labor of assembling them, as well as the expense of shipping fully assembled cabinets. Both of these factors drastically lower the price from that of regular cabinets.

  • Are RTA cabinets strong?

    RTA cabinets are as strong as the materials you choose to use, which is the same that can be said for regular cabinets. High-quality RTA cabinets should last two to three decades.

Pros & Cons of Ready to Assemble Cabinets (RTA)

These ready to assemble cabinets have changed people&#;s thinking. Wondering how? If we talk mainly about kitchen remodeling and furniture design, these best RTA cabinets are a standout option. 

These cabinets offer a balance between convenience and style. No wonder these cabinets are getting popular day after day. If you&#;re looking for a more customizable kitchen, and that too at a budget-friendly price, don&#;t worry we have you covered. 

Are you a DIY enthusiast? Or a first-time home renovator? If you&#;re than knowing about the pros and cons of these best RTA cabinets will help you make a detailed decision while purchasing. 


What Are RTA Cabinets?

RTA cabinets are pre-manufactured cabinetry units delivered in a disassembled form and require assembly by the buyer. These units come with all the necessary hardware and assembly instructions. Here&#;s a detailed look at what they entail:

  • Flat-packed

    : These cabinets come in a flat box, making them easy to ship and handle.

  • Component-based

    : Each pack includes the pieces for the cabinet, hardware, and sometimes even the tools needed for assembly.

  • Customizable

    : While standard in size, they offer a range of designs, finishes, and configurations.

Pros of RTA Cabinets

1. Cost-Effective:

  • Reduced Manufacturing Costs

    : RTA cabinets are less expensive to produce since they are delivered disassembled, saving the consumer money.

  • Lower Shipping Costs

    : Compared to pre-assembled cabinetry, these cabinets' flat-pack design saves a lot of space and money on shipping.

2. Shipping Efficiency:

  • Faster Delivery

    : Best RTA cabinets can be shipped more quickly from the warehouse due to their compact packaging.

  • Less Risk of Damage

    : Compact packaging also reduces the likelihood of damage during transit compared to bulkier, pre-assembled cabinets.

3. Availability:

  • Quick Dispatch

    : Most suppliers offer the best RTA cabinets ready to ship immediately, which is ideal for tight timelines on renovation projects.

  • Wide Selection

    : Manufacturers often offer a broader array of styles and finishes in RTA formats, ensuring you don&#;t have to wait for long production times.

4. DIY Friendly:

  • Personal happiness

    : Completing the installation of your bathroom or kitchen cabinets on your own may undoubtedly provide you with a feeling of achievement and personal happiness.

  • Custom Installation

    : One benefit of DIYing these cabinets is that you may make them fit your needs or available space. 

5. Variety of Designs:

  • Modern and Traditional Styles

    : You can find these cabinets in various designs. From ultra modern to traditional, whatever fits your shoe. Their different designs allow them to easity fit with any decor. 

  • Material Choices

    : They are available in various materials, which include wood, plywood, MDF, and more. Every material offers different style and durability traits. 

6. Eco-Friendly Options:

  • Sustainable Practices

    : There are many RTA Cabinet manufacturers who put sustainability on top. They use recycled materials while manufacturing these cabinets. 

  • Reduced Carbon Footprint

    : One of the main pros of this cabinet is, it reduces the carbon footprint. How? Less space is needed to ship these cabinets, less space means fewer trucks. 

7. Space Management:

  • Storage Flexibility

    : RTA cabinets can be stored in flat-packed boxes until you are ready to assemble them, saving space in your home during other renovation activities.

  • Easier Handling

    : Smaller, compact boxes are easier to handle and move around, especially in tight spaces or when elevators are involved.

 

Cons of RTA Cabinets

1. Assembly Required:

  • Skill Level

    : Only some people are handy with tools; poor assembly can lead to structural problems or aesthetic imperfections.

  • Time Investment

    : Depending on the complexity, assembly can take significant time, which might delay the project timeline.

2. Tools Needed:

  • Additional Costs

    : If you don&#;t have the necessary tools, you might need to purchase them, which will increase the overall cost.

  • Learning Curve

    : Using specific tools requires a learning curve that not all DIY enthusiasts might be comfortable with.

3. Inconsistencies in Quality:

  • Varying Manufacturer Standards

    : Quality can vary widely depending on the manufacturer, with some offering superior products while others might cut corners.

  • Component Variability

    : Components such as hardware might only sometimes meet high standards, affecting the longevity and function of the cabinets.

4. Limited Customization:

  • Standard Sizes

    : Most & best RTA cabinets are available in standard sizes, which can be limiting if your space requires customized dimensions.

  • Design Rigidity

    : Once chosen, altering the design or configuration of RTA cabinets is more complex and sometimes impossible without ordering entirely new units.

5. Potential for Damage:

  • During Assembly

    : Improper handling during assembly can easily damage components, especially if the material quality is more robust.

  • Shipping Risks

    : Although less bulky, the individual pieces are susceptible to scratches or dents if not adequately protected.

6. Resale Value Impact:

  • Perception Issues

    : Some home buyers may perceive RTA cabinets as a cheaper alternative to custom options, potentially impacting the resale value of your home.

  • Wear and Tear

    : If not assembled or maintained correctly, RTA cabinets might show wear and tear more quickly than pre-assembled options, affecting longevity and appeal.


Are RTA Cabinets Affordable?

Yes, RTA cabinets are generally more affordable than other types of cabinetry. At BuildMyPlace, we offer a wide selection of the best RTA cabinets that fit your budget and complement your style and space requirements. Shopping for online assembled kitchen cabinets has always been challenging, with various options that promise quality without the hefty price tag.


How To Ensure You're Purchasing High-Quality RTA Cabinets

To guarantee you are getting high-quality & best RTA cabinets, consider these tips:

  • Check the Materials

    : Opt for cabinets made from durable materials like solid wood or high-grade MDF.

  • Read Reviews

    : Customer reviews can provide insight into the quality and ease of assembly.

  • Inspect the Hardware

    : Check the hardware before installing, and for longevity & usability high-quality hardware which includes (hinges, pulls, and screws) is important. 

  • Look for Guarantees

    : Always look for guarantees, Manufacturers who are confident in their products often offer guarantees or warranties.


 Conclusion

Are you looking to renovate your kitchen or any other space requiring a cabinet? Look no more! Our Best RTA cabinets design provides you with a practical solution. If you want more personalization and cost savings, you can choose these RTA Cabinets from a reputable supplier. 

And what&#;s better than your own one-stop home improvement store? BuildMyPlace is there to cover for you. With our experienced professionals, we&#;ll help you complete your project and with your thorough research. You&#;ll definitely find the best RTA Cabinets here. 

Are you drawn to the smoothness and rustic charm of wooden kitchen cabinets? Our range of Unfinished cabinets and fully assembled kitchen cabinets online ensures that there is something for everyone. 


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. What are the main advantages of choosing RTA cabinets?

A. RTA cabinets are cost-effective, offer various designs, and are DIY-friendly, making them popular for budget-conscious homeowners looking to personalize their space.

Q. How difficult is it to assemble RTA cabinets?

A. The difficulty level varies by design and personal skill, but most RTA cabinets are designed for easy assembly with essential tools and include detailed instructions.

Q. Can RTA cabinets be customized to fit my kitchen?

A. While RTA cabinets come in standard sizes, you can customize them to suit your kitchen layout by choosing different styles, finishes, and configurations.

Q. Are RTA cabinets a good choice for long-term use?

A. Yes, when assembled and installed correctly, high-quality RTA cabinets are durable and can last as long as pre-assembled cabinets with proper maintenance.

Q. Where can I buy reliable RTA cabinets online?

A. BuildMyPlace offers a wide selection of high-quality RTA cabinets, with options ranging from basic to premium, ensuring you can find the right fit for your budget and style preferences.

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