Today is the day you meet with a contractor about remodeling your Kitchen Cabinets in Burlington. You want to meet with an experienced and knowledgeable cabinet maker before you sign any contracts. It is important to feel confident that the job will get done professionally with experienced staff.
It would be best if you asked a few questions before you meet face-to-face. You will get the answers you need to make informed decisions. A variety of completed projects will be displayed to you, as well as references from customers.
You are about to embark on a huge and costly venture. Please do not leave it up to chance. Get your questions answered, and make reference calls. Cabinets offer endless design options and can be the most expensive component of your kitchen. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead so there are no surprises.
It is always a good idea to be able to explain what you are talking to. Here is a list with definitions regarding cabinets components. These definitions will answer your questions.
- Box The actual carcass for your cabinets.
- Face Frames– Face frames attach on the front of boxes. These face frames are attached to the cabinet doors.
- Doors & Drawer Faces – The most visible part of the cabinets.
- Toe Kicks The area under the cabinet that allows for your toes while you stand at the cabinets.
- Hinges and Slides are the necessary hardware to operate your drawers and doors.
- Drawer Pulls & Knobs – The cabinet’s appearance and functionality are key considerations.
- Finish Protect your investment with the coatings
These are the questions you should ask your cabinet maker during your meeting.
What materials will be used to make the cabinets?
For longevity, solid wood core plywood is required for the boxes, and solid hardwood for the frames.
How do you put together the cabinets?
Pocket screws are used for face frames.
What finishes are available? What finishes will you use?
Because of the toxic chemicals and sprays used, shop-finished cabinets are preferable. The best finish is achieved by a shop that sprays pre-catalyzed lacquer. Cabinets with or without glass doors should be stained and painted inside to match the outside.
How are drawers and slide out shelves constructed?
Dovetailed drawers offer the highest level of strength. Solid wood sides are the best.
Which hardware will you use?
Soft-closes that are under-mount are the best. Good hardware will ensure that drawers and doors open and close easily.
What style should my doors have?
Raised panel or Shaker doors? Are overlay or inset frames better?
You can provide shop drawings, design and as much detail as you need.
This is an extremely important question, so make sure you fully understand the drawings.
