Question 1

What are the most durable types of cabinets and how long do they last?

Accepted Answer

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Custom cabinets made from solid wood are the most durable, lasting 20 to 50 years with proper maintenance. In comparison, prefabricated cabinets have a lifespan nearly half as long. The longevity of any cabinet depends on factors like upkeep, the amount of heat and moisture in the home, and general wear and tear. Popular hardwood options for long-lasting cabinets include oak, cherry, maple, walnut, and hickory. While these materials are a worthwhile investment for those planning to stay in their home for decades, their durability comes at a higher price compared to alternatives like furniture board, laminate, and plywood. The average cost for solid wood cabinets ranges from $100 to $1,200 per linear foot.

Question 2

How long does it take to install kitchen cabinets to the ceiling?

Accepted Answer

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It depends on whether you buy pre-made stacked cabinets or construct them from scratch. If you build added cabinets from scratch, you can expect it to take several hours or days to build each one and then another two to three days for installation. Then, after painting your new cabinets, you should allow a few weeks for the paint to dry thoroughly before installing them over your existing cabinets.

Question 3

What is the usual timeframe for installing pre-made kitchen cabinets?

Accepted Answer

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Installation typically takes 2-3 days, depending on the kitchen size and preparation needed.

Question 4

What is the 1/3 rule for cabinet hardware and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

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The 1/3 rule is a design guideline used by interior designers and cabinet installers to select appropriately sized pulls for cabinets and drawers. The rule suggests that for a balanced and cohesive look, a cabinet pull should be approximately one-third the height of the cabinet door or one-third the width of the drawer face. This guideline helps create a symmetrical appearance because the human eye tends to follow the length of the pull across the cabinet face.

While the 1/3 rule is a helpful starting point, it is not the only option. If a measurement falls between available pull sizes, it's generally best to size up. For an ultra-contemporary aesthetic, you can also opt for full-width pulls that span the entire drawer.

Question 5

How do I prepare to have new cabinets installed?

Accepted Answer

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As a homeowner, there are a few things you can do to prepare for your cabinet installer. Once the cabinets are ready for your home, you can do the following:

Ensure pets are safely in another room, out of the way of open doors and large moving objects.
Clear countertops for removal.
Tidy the floor the installers will walk through and around.
Prepare to have the installers in your home for the entire day, for multiple days, until the project is done. Expect to have a noisy environment, especially if they will remove old, existing cabinets.