What Are Some of the Differences Between Semi-Custom and Custom Cabinets?

September 10, 2021 Published by Writer Leave your thoughts

When you’re doing a kitchen or bathroom remodel, one of the biggest choices you’ll make is between custom and semi-custom cabinets. How do you know which type to choose? What’s best for your budget and lifestyle in the long run? What will look best in your specific space?

Here’s how to decide between custom vs. semi-custom cabinets.

What’s the difference between semi-custom and custom cabinets?

When you get custom cabinets, they’re built for the exact dimensions of your kitchen or bathroom—so if you have an oddly-shaped room, a custom-built cabinet can make the most of the curves and angles.

If your room is mostly rectangular, however, semi-custom cabinets might work well. Semi-custom cabinets are made in three-inch width increments, and are available in varying heights. Depending on your particular kitchen or bathroom, semi-custom cabinets might be exactly what you need to transform your living space.

Another major difference is that semi-custom cabinets are made—at least partially—from particle board, veneer, melamine and other less desirable materials. If you’re not worried about how long your cabinets will last, semi-custom cabinetry could be an excellent solution for your needs. If, however, you’re hoping to have something built to last for decades (if not centuries), custom cabinetry is a better investment.

Finally, semi-custom cabinets are “mixed and matched” from a catalog. Depending on what aesthetic effect you want to achieve, you may or may not be able to do it with semi-custom cabinets. On the other hand, you’re guaranteed to get the exact look, feel and storage you want when you spring for custom cabinetry.

What should I choose?

Generally, you’ll spend about 15 to 30 percent less when you choose semi-custom cabinets vs. truly custom cabinets. However, that price point doesn’t mean that you’re necessarily getting a better deal. It all depends on what your kitchen or bathroom looks like, and what you want to achieve.

When you’re trying to decide between custom and semi-custom cabinets, it’s important that you determine what exactly you’d like to get out of your cabinet storage. If you only have to store a few dishes, that’s not too complicated—semi-custom cabinets should do the trick. If, like most people, you need to store dishes, glassware, pots, pans, small appliances and a multitude of canned goods, then it’s worth considering whether you need to invest in custom cabinets. Why not make the absolute most of your living space—and make it look the way you want, while you’re at it?

If your existing storage is working just fine, you might just want to refinish it. Replacing the doors and hardware can go a long way toward improving your kitchen remodel. Whatever you choose, make sure you’ve discussed it thoroughly with your kitchen or bathroom remodeling contractor. They’ll be able to point out specific things you should consider, so you can make the best choice possible for your needs.

For more information about custom vs. semi-custom cabinets, reach out to the team at Nowak Cabinets of Midland today.