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Ask a Pro: What Are the Three Grades of Cabinets?

Hi, it's Carl Tanner from Fort Collins Cabinet Kings. I am excited, because today, I get to share some insights about the different grades of cabinets. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or just curious, knowing the three grades of cabinets can help you make the best choice for your home. Let's dive right in.

Stock Cabinets

A picture of stock cabinets in someone's kitchen in the Colorado area

Let's start with stock cabinets. These are the most budget-friendly options. You can find stock cabinets in many home improvement stores. When I first moved into my own home years ago, I decided to go with stock cabinets for the kitchen. At the time, I was just starting out and didn't have a great deal of money to spend.



What Are Stock Cabinets?

Stock cabinets are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and styles. This means they come ready-made and you can have them installed right away. You won't have to wait for someone to build them, which can save you time. They're also the cheapest option because they are mass-produced.


Pros of Stock Cabinets:

  • Cost-Effective: Since they are mass-produced, stock cabinets are more affordable.
  • Quick Availability: You can usually buy them right off the shelf.
  • Variety: Even though they are pre-made, you can find a decent variety of styles and finishes.


Cons of Stock Cabinets:

  • Limited Customization: What you see is what you get. There's no room for changes or custom tweaks.
  • Standard Sizes: They may not be a perfect fit in your kitchen, especially if you have an unusual layout.

Semi-Custom Cabinets

An image of semi-custom cabinets in a Colorado kitchen

A few years after installing stock cabinets, I decided to upgrade to semi-custom cabinets. I wanted a bit more flexibility in the design without breaking the bank. Semi-custom cabinets turned out to be a great middle ground.



What Are Semi-Custom Cabinets?

Semi-custom cabinets offer more options than stock cabinets but are not fully customizable. They are pre-made in standard sizes, but you can make some adjustments. You can choose different finishes, add extra shelves, or change the dimensions slightly.



Pros of Semi-Custom Cabinets:

  • More Options: You can choose from a wider range of finishes and styles.
  • Better Fit: You can adjust the dimensions to fit your space better.
  • Higher Quality: Generally, they use better materials than stock cabinets.


Cons of Semi-Custom Cabinets:

  • Higher Cost: They are more expensive than stock cabinets but still cheaper than custom ones.
  • Longer Wait: Since they are made to order, you will have to wait longer for them to be ready.

Custom Cabinets

Fully custom cabinets in a kitchen in Colorado

After years of experience in woodworking, I finally had the chance to design and install custom cabinets in my kitchen. This was a game-changer and allowed me to create exactly what I envisioned.



What Are Custom Cabinets?

Custom cabinets are built to your specifications. You have complete control over every detail, from the materials and finishes to the exact dimensions and special features. These cabinets are handcrafted and tailored to your space and style.


Pros of Custom Cabinets:

  • Complete Customization: You can get exactly what you want.
  • Perfect Fit: They are made to fit your kitchen perfectly.
  • High Quality: Custom cabinets are usually built with the best materials and craftsmanship.


Cons of Custom Cabinets:

Longer Wait Time: Since they are made from scratch, it can take a while to complete them.

Pink colored custom cabinets in a kitchen
A man building cabinets

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right grade of cabinets depends on your budget, timeline, and specific needs. Here's a quick recap:


  • Stock Cabinets: Best for budget-conscious buyers looking for quick and easy installation.


  • Semi-Custom Cabinets: Ideal for those who want more flexibility and better quality without the cost of custom cabinets.


  • Custom Cabinets: Perfect for homeowners who want complete control over the design and are willing to invest more time and money.
A woman in a picture thinking about a decision of which cabinet type to get

My Personal Experience

Reflecting on my journey with cabinets, I've seen the benefits and drawbacks of each grade. When I first started, stock cabinets served me well. As I grew in my career and gained more experience, semi-custom cabinets provided the balance I needed between customization and cost.


Finally, reaching the point where I could design my own custom cabinets was so satisfying. Each choice served its purpose at different stages of my life. I hope sharing my experiences helps you make an informed decision.

A man holding his hand up to signal three (3) things

Final Thoughts

Whether you're starting out or ready to invest in your dream kitchen, understanding the three grades of cabinets can help you make the right choice. Remember, it's not only about the look but also about fitting your lifestyle and budget.


If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to us at Fort Collins Cabinet Kings. We're here to help you make the best choice for your home.

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