Shopping for kitchen cabinets online can be tricky. You don’t want to end up with something that doesn’t fit in your space and leaves you frustrated. In this guide, we provide tips on how to shop for the perfect kitchen cabinets online so you can avoid any hassles:
Understanding Your Space and Needs
Before you start shopping for kitchen cabinets online, it’s important to understand your space and needs. Begin by measuring the size and layout of your kitchen, making note of any obstacles or features that may have an impact on your cabinet choices. As you plan out the look you’d like to see, there are several key factors to keep in mind.
- Storage space: Wall-to-wall cabinets are great for those who want a streamlined look, while freestanding cabinets may offer more flexibility in terms of placement and installation options.
- Appliances: Take note of which appliances you have – built-in appliances may require more specific measurements compared to standard models.
- Materials: Compare the durability and maintenance requirements of wood, metal, laminate, and glass when making a decision, and be aware that certain materials can push costs up significantly.
- Design: Create a cohesive design that not only looks great but also works well with your lifestyle and preferences in terms of convenience and function.
Measuring Your Kitchen
When shopping for kitchen cabinets online, proper measuring is a critical requirement. Before you begin your search, take detailed measurements of the walls where the cabinets will be placed, including any windows and entrances that may restrict the size of your cabinets.
Additionally, make sure to measure down from the ceiling to ensure that all cabinets are a safe distance away from any ventilation hoods or ceiling fans.
Measure both width and height in each area to make sure that your desired cabinet sizes satisfy the space requirements. It is also important to determine where you would like hinges and doors for each cabinet section before ordering. Once you have determined these measurements, it will be easy to shop for kitchen cabinets online based on accurate dimensions:
- Measure the width and height of the walls.
- Ensure that cabinets are a safe distance away from any ventilation hoods or ceiling fans.
- Determine where you would like hinges and doors for each cabinet section.
Researching Different Styles and Materials
When shopping for kitchen cabinets online, the selection can be overwhelming. To make the best choice, it helps to do a little research beforehand. Start by researching different materials and styles that are currently available and find out which ones work best with your kitchen’s overall design.
Popular materials for kitchen cabinets include wood, laminate, vinyl, particleboard, and metal. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks—wood is generally more expensive but more durable; laminate is affordable but can easily chip; vinyl is moisture-resistant but not as sturdy; particleboard provides a smooth finish but is less resistant to warping; and metal has an industrial look but tarnishes over time. Consider whether or not you will be using your cabinets in a wet environment or if they will need to withstand heavy seasonal fluctuations in your home’s temperature.
Once you have narrowed down the selection based on material type, research different styles of cabinets. There are traditional styles such as shaker-style doors with recessed panels that are ideal for contemporary spaces; raised-panel doors give off a classic look suitable for a more traditional aesthetic; louvered doors offer flexibility that allows you to control ventilation throughout your kitchen space; and glass doors give off an open feel by allowing natural light to filter through.
If you’re unsure about what you want or need, browsing online options or asking a reputable kitchen cabinet provider can help narrow down the choices so that you get exactly what you want when it comes time to make your purchase.
Evaluating Quality and Durability
When evaluating the quality and durability of cabinets online, there are several factors to consider:
- Firstly, check for reviews from actual customers and experts regarding the craftsmanship of the cabinet doors and drawers.
- Secondly, inspect the construction materials like particle board, plywood, or other types of wood used in the overall design and construction; some materials may be stronger than others depending on your needs.
- Thirdly, make sure that any plastic pieces such as pulls or knobs are properly secured and fit for purpose – some builders claim to use stainless steel components but plastic may be less durable and prone to breakage over time.
- Finally, ensure that all finishes are applied properly – smooth edges, rich colors, strong stains or lacquers should look consistent throughout every corner of your chosen cabinet model.
Understanding Shipping and Delivery Options
Orders for kitchen cabinets purchased online may require different shipping and delivery arrangements than buying cabinets from a local store. It is important to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions associated with an online purchase before making your final decision. Most vendors will provide delivery options for their customers, but these services often come at additional costs.
When shopping for kitchen cabinets online, make sure to clarify any questions about shipping and delivery charges with the retailer before you place your order. Many vendors offer free shipping as part of their delivery service package, however, it is best to double-check the details of the order beforehand to make sure that this service applies to all items being purchased.
In some cases, orders must exceed a minimum amount in order to qualify for free or discounted delivery options. You should also confirm whether there will be any additional waiting time due to packaging or processing delays before products are shipped out.
In addition, ask if there are restrictions on returns or exchanges in cases where damaged cabinets are delivered or other mistakes have been made. The vendor should also be able to tell you how long the process should take from placing your order until having it fulfilled at your doorstep. By better understanding shipping and delivery options when shopping for kitchen cabinets online, you can avoid potential unexpected charges or disappointments upon receiving your order.
Comparison of Shopping and Reading Reviews
It can be overwhelming to make an informed purchase when shopping for kitchen cabinets online, so it is important to compare your options and read customer reviews. Doing research into the product you are considering investing in will help give you peace of mind when making such a large purchase.
When comparing products, look out for the following features:
- Construction materials used (i.e. real wood or mass-produced),
- Size and capacity compatibility with your kitchen space,
- The installation process, and
- Delivery speed/costs.
Reviews can also give a good indication as to what type of customer service you can expect, how well the product is built, and how user-friendly it is upon installation.
Reading customer reviews will provide more insight into how customers actually use the product they have purchased and if it met their expectations; this further helps identify any discrepancies between what was promised by the manufacturer and what was delivered in real-life situations. Customer feedback can also be helpful for identifying any common installation problems that may arise during assembly or factors that may need further consideration prior to ordering such as unusual measurements or shapes needed for cabinets within an existing kitchen space.
The review process helps provide peace of mind which is essential when it comes time to make a sizeable investment like purchasing new kitchen cabinets online.
Deciding on Customization Options
Customizing cabinets can add a special touch to any kitchen, but it’s important to check whether the manufacturer offers any customized options. When shopping for kitchen cabinets online, it’s very important to consider the different customization options available. For example, you may be able to choose from a wide variety of colors and finishes for each cabinet door, drawer front, and side panel. This is a great way to add a more personal style and complement your overall design scheme.
Additionally, you may have the option of different cabinet sizes and door styles so you can get exactly what you need for your kitchen space. Depending on the company and the model you are considering, they might also offer personalized details like decorative moldings and glass inserts that allow even further customization options. Before making your purchase online make sure to investigate what customization services are offered by each manufacturer so that you can select the right cabinets for your home.
Understanding Return and Warranty Policies
Before purchasing kitchen cabinets online, it is important to read and understand the return and warranty policies of the store or manufacturer you are considering. Some companies offer a full return, while others may have more limited conditions. If an item arrives damaged, is not as advertised, or arrives late, it is important to be able to return it without penalty.
It is equally important to look into any warranties provided with the purchase of kitchen cabinets. Some manufacturers provide a warranty that covers material defects and craftsmanship, while others may only cover defective parts or finishes. It is also important to note whether labor charges are included in the warranty and if there are additional fees for repairs. Knowing what exactly your warranty covers will help you make an informed decision on your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find online kitchen cabinet stores?
There are many online stores where you can find kitchen cabinets, including Wayfair, Home Depot, Lowes, Ikea, and RTA Cabinets.
What should I consider when shopping for kitchen cabinets online?
When shopping for kitchen cabinets online, it’s important to consider the quality of the cabinets, the price, the warranty, and the delivery options.
Can I get custom kitchen cabinets online?
Yes, many online stores offer custom kitchen cabinets, where you can choose the style, size, and materials to suit your needs.
Conclusion
Shopping online for kitchen cabinets can be an intimidating prospect. There are many options available and an overwhelming amount of information to consider. Nevertheless, with a little bit of research and patience, you can find the right kitchen cabinets for your needs and budget. The ability to compare prices, materials, and styles makes online shopping a convenient and cost-effective way to update your kitchen.
When shopping online, pay attention to the details. Measure all available space to ensure that you select cabinets that fit properly and can provide the maximum possible storage solution. Consider any required accessories or fixtures before ordering so that your cabinets arrive ready to install and use without additional purchases or delays.
