RTA Cabinets

Semi-custom cabinets are pre-manufactured cabinets offering more size, style, finish, and feature options than stock cabinets, but less customization than fully custom ones.

RTA stands for "Ready-To-Assemble" cabinets. These are cabinets that are manufactured and shipped in a flat-packed, disassembled state. All the necessary parts, including panels, hardware, and instructions, are included for the customer to assemble on-site.

Ordering RTA cabinets typically involves these steps:

• Measure your space: Take precise measurements of your kitchen's dimensions to ensure an accurate fit.
• Plan your layout: Determine the types and sizes of cabinets you need (e.g., base cabinets, wall cabinets, pantry cabinets, drawer bases). Many RTA cabinet retailers offer design tools or services to help with this.
• Choose your style and finish: Select the door style, wood species, and finish that match your aesthetic preferences.
• Place your order: This is usually done online through a retailer's website. You'll add the specific cabinet boxes, doors, and accessories to your cart and complete the purchase.
• Shipping and delivery: Your cabinets will be shipped directly to your home.

It varies. Many RTA cabinets are made with real wood (solid wood or plywood). However, some may use engineered wood products, such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or particleboard, especially for cabinet boxes or less visible components. Always check the product specifications to confirm the materials used. High-quality RTA cabinets often feature solid wood doors and plywood boxes.

The quality of RTA cabinets can vary depending on the manufacturer and the materials used. High-quality RTA cabinets can be very durable and look just as good as custom cabinets, offering excellent value for money. These will typically feature solid wood doors, plywood boxes, and high-quality hardware. Lower-cost options may use less expensive materials, which can impact their longevity and appearance. It's crucial to research reputable suppliers and read reviews.

RTA cabinets are less expensive than custom cabinets for several reasons:

• Mass production: RTA cabinets are manufactured in large quantities using standardized sizes and designs, which reduces production costs.
• No assembly labor: The cost of assembly labor is shifted from the manufacturer or installer to the customer.
• Lower shipping costs: Flat-packed cabinets are more compact and efficient to ship, reducing freight expenses.
• No design fees: While some retailers offer design services, you're not paying for a custom design process unique to your space in the same way you would with custom cabinetry.

As mentioned earlier, RTA stands for Ready-To-Assemble. It describes cabinets that are shipped in pieces and require the end-user to assemble them.

The assembly time for RTA cabinetry varies depending on your experience level, the complexity of the cabinet, and the number of cabinets you have. A single base cabinet typically takes 15-30 minutes for an experienced DIYer, while a larger pantry cabinet or an entire kitchen can take several hours or even days to complete. Most manufacturers provide clear instructions, and some offer online video tutorials to assist with the process.

While ready-to-assemble cabinets come in standard sizes and configurations, there are still ways to achieve a customized look:

• Wide range of styles and finishes: Retailers offer a selection of door styles, colors, and wood finishes.
• Accessories and organizers: You can often add pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, spice racks, and other internal organizers to enhance storage space. Decorative elements, such as crown molding, light valances, decorative feet, and end panels, can be added to enhance the aesthetic.
• Mixing and matching: You can combine different cabinet types and sizes to fit your needs.
• Professional modification: For more advanced customization, skilled carpenters can sometimes modify RTA cabinets (e.g., cutting down a cabinet to fit a specific width), though this voids warranties.

The lifespan of RTA cabinets depends heavily on their quality, materials, and the quality of their assembly and maintenance. High-quality RTA cabinets, made with solid wood and plywood and correctly constructed, can last 15-20 years or even longer. Lower-quality cabinets, made with particleboard or MDF, may have a shorter lifespan, typically 5-10 years, especially in areas prone to moisture. Proper care and avoiding excessive humidity will contribute to their longevity.

Ready-to-assemble cabinets typically arrive in flat, cardboard boxes. Each box usually contains the individual components for one cabinet, including:

• Panels
• Doors and Drawer Fronts
• Shelves
• Hardware