When you’re choosing new cabinets for your kitchen, bathroom, or any other space, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of selecting the perfect color, finish, and style.
But while these aesthetic details are important, there’s a whole other side to cabinetry that’s just as crucial for ensuring your investment lasts. We’re talking about the construction of your cabinets, and it can make all the difference when it comes to their durability and functionality.
If you're serious about getting the most out of your cabinetry, here are three essential questions to ask your cabinet provider before you make a decision. These questions might seem a little technical, but trust us—they’re the secret to cabinetry that stands the test of time.
1. What’s the Construction Material? Plywood or Particle Board?
When it comes to the internal material of your cabinets, you might not be able to see it, but you’ll definitely feel it in the long run. Plywood is generally considered the gold standard for cabinet construction because it's durable, resistant to warping, and can handle the weight of heavy kitchen items without losing its shape. On the other hand, particle board is cheaper and may look great at first, but it’s more prone to swelling, chipping, and general wear over time—especially in high-moisture areas.
So, before you get lost in choosing the perfect cabinet doors, make sure you know exactly what the inner structure is made of. It can make a huge difference in both the performance and longevity of your cabinets.
2. How Are the Joints Made? Dovetail, Butt, or Dowels?
This question gets into the nitty-gritty of cabinet construction, but it’s so important! The way cabinet joints are made plays a huge role in the overall strength and durability of your cabinets. Dovetail joints are considered the gold standard when it comes to drawer construction because they provide exceptional strength and durability—these joints interlock and are much less likely to pull apart over time compared to simpler butt or dowel joints.
If the cabinet provider is using cheaper construction methods, you might get cabinets that look fine on the surface but could wear down quickly under daily use. Dovetail joints not only improve the lifespan of your cabinetry but also add a touch of craftsmanship that makes a huge difference in both performance and appearance.
3. Do the Cabinets Have Soft-Close Mechanisms?
You might think soft-close features are just a luxury, but once you’ve experienced them, you’ll never go back. Soft-close hinges and drawer slides are more than just a nice-to-have feature—they actually protect your cabinets from wear and tear. They prevent the doors and drawers from slamming shut, reducing the strain on hinges, rails, and the structure of the cabinet itself.
If your cabinet provider doesn't offer soft-close options it’s worth asking why. This small detail can make a world of difference in terms of both longevity and the overall experience of using your cabinets every day.
We’re not just about beautiful cabinets—we’re committed to providing you with the quality and durability that lasts. At Black Mountain Cabinetry, we’ll help you navigate the important details like construction materials, joinery, and functional features to ensure your cabinets are built to stand the test of time.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s create cabinets that are as strong as they are stunning. We’ve got you covered every step of the way!