Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to home remodeling, kitchen cabinets are arguably one of the most important components. Not only do they provide essential storage space, but they also set the tone for your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. Whether you are designing a brand-new kitchen or renovating an existing one, choosing the right cabinets is crucial. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about kitchen cabinets—from what they are and how they are made, to where you can buy them, and how to keep them looking their best. We’ll also delve into how Forevermark Cabinetry fits into the modern kitchen landscape and why it’s a top choice for homeowners across the United States.

What Are Kitchen Cabinets?

Kitchen cabinets are functional storage units that are installed in kitchen spaces to store food, utensils, cookware, and various kitchen tools. They are available in a wide variety of styles, materials, and sizes, designed to match different kitchen layouts and personal preferences. Cabinets are typically built with a front-facing door or drawers and can also feature open shelving for display purposes.

The Purpose of Kitchen Cabinets

The primary function of kitchen cabinets is to organize and store items. By utilizing vertical and horizontal space, they keep the kitchen clutter-free, providing ample storage for everything from spices and pantry items to pots and pans. In addition to storage, kitchen cabinets contribute significantly to the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal, creating a cohesive look for the space.

How Are Kitchen Cabinets Made?

Kitchen cabinets can be made from various materials, and the method of construction can vary depending on the desired quality, design, and budget.

Common Materials Used in Cabinet Construction

• Solid Wood: Known for its durability and timeless appeal, solid wood cabinets are a popular choice for high-end kitchens. Popular woods used in cabinetry include maple, oak, cherry, and walnut.
• Plywood: Plywood is made by layering thin sheets of wood and binding them together with adhesive. It is often used for the cabinet box construction, as it is lightweight and resistant to warping.
• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): MDF is an engineered wood product that is smooth, dense, and easy to work with. It is commonly used for doors and drawer fronts.
• Particleboard: This material is often used for budget-friendly cabinets. It’s made from wood chips and resin, and while it’s less durable than plywood or solid wood, it’s an affordable option for basic cabinetry.

Cabinet Construction Methods

Cabinet construction methods vary, with two main types:

• Framed Cabinets: These cabinets feature a frame on the front, which provides added structure and support. They are typically found in traditional kitchen designs.
• Frameless Cabinets: These cabinets do not have a front frame, providing more space and a modern, sleek look. They are often used in contemporary and European-style kitchens.

Where to Buy Kitchen Cabinets

Finding the perfect kitchen cabinets for your home involves choosing a reliable source. There are several options for purchasing cabinets:

Home Improvement Stores

Large retailers such as Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a wide variety of ready-to-assemble (RTA) and pre-assembled cabinets in various styles and materials. These stores often have budget-friendly options, and you can take advantage of in-store consultations.

Cabinet Showrooms

For a more personalized experience, you may want to visit a cabinet showroom. These stores typically offer higher-end, custom cabinetry and allow you to work with designers to create a kitchen that fits your specific needs.

Online Retailers

If you’re looking for convenience, many online retailers offer a broad selection of kitchen cabinets. Websites such as Wayfair, CabinetNow, and even Amazon provide an extensive range of choices, often with customer reviews and detailed specifications to guide your decision.

Forevermark Cabinetry

If you’re seeking high-quality, stylish, and affordable kitchen cabinets, Forevermark Cabinetry is a name you can trust. Their cabinets are made from durable materials, with options for customization, and come in a variety of finishes and styles. Forevermark is known for its eco-friendly practices, with many of their cabinets certified by the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) and the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP).

Who Are Kitchen Cabinets Suitable For?

Kitchen cabinets are essential for anyone looking to organize their kitchen and enhance its functionality. Whether you’re a professional chef, a home cook, or someone who simply enjoys a neat and tidy kitchen, cabinets will serve a crucial role in your space. They are especially useful for:

• Families: With ample space for storing kitchen essentials, cabinets help families keep their kitchens organized and accessible.
• Entertainers: Those who often host dinner parties or gatherings will appreciate the increased storage and efficient organization kitchen cabinets provide.
• Renovators: If you are remodeling your kitchen, new cabinets can completely transform the space, increasing both functionality and home value.

How to Clean and Maintain Kitchen Cabinets

Keeping your kitchen cabinets in tip-top shape requires regular cleaning and maintenance. Here’s a quick guide:

Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

• Wooden Cabinets: Wipe down with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the wood finish.
• Laminate Cabinets: Use a soft cloth with a mixture of vinegar and water to clean surfaces without leaving streaks.
• Glass Doors: Clean glass fronts with a streak-free glass cleaner for a sparkling finish.

Polishing and Protecting

For wooden cabinets, applying a furniture polish or wax periodically can help protect the finish and maintain their luster. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the best care practices.

Customer Reviews: What People Are Saying About Kitchen Cabinets

Customer feedback plays an important role when selecting kitchen cabinets. Let’s take a look at what some people are saying:

• “I love my new kitchen cabinets! The quality is excellent, and they have really transformed the space. The soft-close drawers are a fantastic feature!” – Sarah J., Homeowner
• “I chose Forevermark cabinets for my kitchen renovation, and I couldn’t be happier. They offer great value for the price, and their eco-friendly commitment was a huge selling point.” – Mark D., Contractor

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kitchen Cabinets

1. How long do kitchen cabinets last?

The lifespan of kitchen cabinets depends on the material, construction quality, and maintenance. Solid wood cabinets can last up to 50 years or more with proper care, while cheaper materials like particleboard may need replacing after 15-20 years.

2. Can I install kitchen cabinets myself?

Yes, many homeowners opt for DIY installation, especially with ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets. However, professional installation is recommended for custom or complex cabinets to ensure a perfect fit.

3. Are kitchen cabinets customizable?

Yes, many manufacturers, including Forevermark Cabinetry, offer customization options. This can include adjustments to cabinet size, style, and finish to match your exact needs.

4. What is the best material for kitchen cabinets?

The best material depends on your priorities. Solid wood is the most durable and traditional choice, while MDF and plywood offer good value and performance. For budget-conscious buyers, particleboard may be a viable option.

The Importance of Kitchen Cabinets in America

In the United States, kitchen cabinets are more than just storage solutions—they represent a key element of American home design. The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and cabinets play a significant role in both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re preparing meals, hosting gatherings, or simply spending time with family, a well-designed kitchen with quality cabinets enhances the overall experience.

Forevermark Cabinetry and similar brands have recognized this need, offering high-quality options for homeowners across the country. Their commitment to craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices resonates with the American preference for both durability and sustainability in kitchen design.

Conclusion

Choosing the right kitchen cabinets is an important step in creating a functional, organized, and visually appealing kitchen. With a wide range of materials, styles, and price points available, there is a cabinet option for every home. By understanding what goes into the construction, care, and installation of cabinets, you can make an informed decision that suits your kitchen’s needs and your personal style. Consider working with reputable brands like Forevermark Cabinetry for top-notch products that deliver both value and lasting beauty to your home.

Gramercy White Kitchen Cabinets

If you want a “new” kitchen right now and can’t afford to buy new kitchen cabinets then paint is likely to be your best bet. It is also the obvious solution if you want a change of color scheme.

It’s partly because different colors will appeal to different tastes, and partly dependent on the architectural style of your house (if any). Also, it’s important to be aware that one style of kitchen cabinet will look completely different when finished in a different color. For example, take Gramercy style RTA kitchen cabinets. Available in white and very dark brown, the two options are in stark contrast to one another, even when the same appliances and similar wall treatments are used.

Gramercy White kitchen cabinets create a clean, crisp look. Painting kitchen cabinets white will have the same or a similar visual effect.

Gramercy Midnight kitchen cabinets are sleek and sophisticated. Burnished hardware and appliances add to the refined look.

7 STEPS

While different types and brands of paint require specific strategies, these seven easy steps for painting kitchen cabinets spell success:

1. Empty your kitchen cabinets and drawers and remove all the hardware including handles and knobs. You can remove the cabinet doors if you wish, otherwise carefully cover hinges and the edges of any glass panes with masking or painter’s tape. Also, tape all adjacent floor and wall surface to avoid getting paint on them. If you do decide to remove the doors, make sure you keep them in order (or number them), so you can put each one back where it previously was. Also, keep tabs on the hardware and hinges to be sure existing holes match up perfectly.

2. Kitchen cabinets must be clean and dry before you start painting. Put dust sheets or a tarpaulin on the floor before washing all accessible parts of the kitchen cabinets with detergent, an all-purpose cleaner, or a solution of sugar soap and warm water. It’s important to remove all dirt and grease so that you will have a nice smooth surface to work on. Use a moist sponge or fabric to remove any soapy residue or cleaner.

3. Allow the kitchen cabinets to dry thoroughly. If you are painting wood cabinets sand with fine sandpaper to smooth. Alternatively, use a deglossing agent and apply with a scrub pad. If there are cracks or other imperfections, fill these with a ready-mixed wood or multi-purpose filler. Sand again once this has dried. Wipe the cabinet surfaces with a damp cloth to get rid of any dust particles from sanding, or to remove excess deglosser.

4. The undercoat or primer you use will depend on the material and existing surface you are painting. Many (if not most) primers are white or sometimes pink in color, so if you are planning to use a dark top coat, see if you can have the primer tinted to a similar color, even if it’s toned down to a pastel because of the white. The kitchen cabinets featured in the before and after photographs below were painted with Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit. This includes a bond coat that is the required primer. Whichever kitchen cabinet surfaces you are going to paint should be primed. You may not need to paint the inside shell of the cabinet boxes and drawers, but both sides of the doors, and underneath of wall cabinets, must be painted. Paint the back of cabinet doors and drawers first, using either a synthetic brush or foam roller.

5. Allow the undercoat, primer, or bond coat to dry. Be guided by the manufacturer’s instructions regarding adequate drying time. Wait longer rather than cut corners. Clean brushes and rollers thoroughly between coats otherwise the paint will dry on them too!

6. Apply two coats of the paint you have chosen, again allowing sufficient time between coats for it to dry.

7. In the end, remove the masking tape, rehang the cabinet doors, and replace the handles and/or knobs. Then clean up and put everything back into the cabinets and drawers.

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOGRAPHS

There’s nothing quite as effective as seeing kitchens before they were painted and after they were painted. This small, U-shaped, wood-cabinet kitchen is structurally sound but bland, if not a little dated. Painting the wall cabinets white and base cabinets gray lightens and brightens the room and makes it look more spacious.

BEFORE:

A compact little kitchen fitted with wall and base cabinets that have been left unpainted.

AFTER:

Painted with Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Pure White and Gray, this little kitchen takes on new life. Using two different colors for the wall hung and base cabinets give it a unique character. One end of the wall cabinets has been painted with chalkboard paint, making it perfect for menus and/or shopping lists.

IDEAS

Page through magazines and books to see what kitchen paint colors are popular. You don’t have to be a slave to fashion, and you don’t have to follow trends, but you will get a good idea of what different paint colors look like in kitchens of different styles.
If your kitchen is open-plan, or it leads directly into a living room, you should make sure the colors used are harmonious even if they are not the same. You may even end up painting kitchen cabinets white, and give the walls a lick of paint color instead. The options are endless!