Ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and affordability. RTA furniture comes packaged with all the hardware and components needed, allowing customers to assemble the furniture themselves at home. This cuts down on costs for both the manufacturer and consumer. One brand that offers RTA options for its cabinetry is Rushmore. So are Rushmore cabinets RTA?
What are RTA Cabinets?
RTA cabinets are ready-to-assemble kitchen and bathroom cabinets. RTA cabinets come with all the pieces pre-cut and pre-drilled, as well as all the necessary hardware and instructions for assembly. Customers can purchase RTA cabinets and assemble them on their own, without the need for a professional installer. This makes RTA cabinets a budget-friendly option compared to pre-assembled cabinetry.
Some key things to know about RTA cabinets:
- All parts are labeled and packaged together with detailed instructions for assembly.
- RTA cabinets require basic tools like a screwdriver, drill, and hammer for installation.
- Assembly time varies depending on cabinet size and complexity. Simple cabinets may take 1-2 hours while a full kitchen could take 20+ hours.
- RTA cabinets are available in a variety of materials like wood, thermofoil, and laminate.
- Styles and finishes can be more limited than custom cabinetry.
- Quality varies amongst RTA brands. Many offer solid wood doors and plywood box construction.
So in summary, RTA cabinetry provides an affordable and customizable cabinet solution that DIY-ers can install themselves. The tradeoff is you have to put in the assembly work rather than having a fully assembled cabinet delivered and installed.
Are Rushmore Cabinets RTA?
Yes, Rushmore offers a line of RTA cabinets as part of their product selection. Rushmore Cabinetry is a subsidiary of Masterbrand Cabinets, one of the largest cabinet manufacturers in the United States.
Rushmore’s line of RTA cabinetry is called the Essentials Collection. This collection includes:
- Kitchen cabinets – bases, wall cabinets, pantry units, islands
- Bathroom vanities – single and double vanity cabinets
- Accessories – filler pieces, toe kicks, molding
The Rushmore Essentials RTA cabinets feature plywood box construction and solid hardwood doors and drawers. They are available in various door styles and finishes to match different decor tastes.
Some benefits of choosing Rushmore RTA cabinets include:
- Affordable pricing – The RTA format allows Rushmore to offer the Essentials line at a budget-friendly price point.
- Quick turnaround – Rushmore RTA cabinets ship out 2-3 weeks after ordering, faster than custom cabinet lead times.
- Easy assembly – Rushmore provides detailed instructions and labeled parts to guide the installation process.
- Quality materials – Rushmore uses plywood boxes, solid wood doors, and soft-close hardware on RTA cabinetry.
- Wide selection – Available in various sizes, configurations, and finishes to work for different kitchens or bathrooms.
So in summary, yes Rushmore does offer a quality line of RTA cabinets through their Essentials product line. The RTA format makes these cabinets easy to assemble and more affordable than Rushmore’s semi-custom line. They provide a budget-friendly cabinetry solution with the manufacturing quality of a major brand.
Rushmore RTA Cabinet Construction
RTA cabinet construction from Rushmore involves several high-quality components and materials:
Cabinet Boxes
The Rushmore Essentials RTA cabinets use 3⁄4” thick plywood for the cabinet boxes. The boxes feature furniture-grade plywood rather than lower-grade material. The plywood lends strength, durability, and stability to the cabinet structure.
The boxes connect together with cam locks, dowels, and nails to create a secure frame once assembled. The plywood edges are banded with matching hardwood to conceal raw plywood edges.
Doors and Drawer Fronts
Doors and drawer fronts are constructed from solid hardwood. Rushmore offers a variety of wood species to choose from such as maple, oak, cherry, and thermofoil laminate.
The doors feature mortise and tenon joinery, which is a hallmark of quality cabinet construction. This joint style makes the doors strong and less likely to warp or sag over time.
Drawer Boxes
Drawer boxes consist of 1⁄2” thick, Baltic birch plywood. Baltic birch is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to humidity. Full-extension drawer glides allow smooth operation and maximum access to drawer space.
Finishes
Rushmore RTA cabinets come with a furniture-grade finish applied. Available finishes include stains, paints, and thermofoil laminates to mimic wood grains. The finishes are professionally applied for a consistent, durable look.
Hardware
The Essentials collection includes brushed nickel knobs and pulls. Rushmore also offers hinges with built-in soft-close mechanisms for smooth, quiet operation when closing doors and drawers.
Pros and Cons of Rushmore RTA Cabinets
Rushmore RTA cabinets provide some great benefits, but also have some downsides to consider:
Pros:
- More affordable than custom or semi-custom cabinets
- Easy assembly with detailed instructions
- Made from quality materials like plywood and solid wood
- Many styles and finishes to choose from
- Quick 2-3 week turnaround time
- Soft-close hinges and drawer glides included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Assembly required instead of professional installation
- Limited to stock sizes and configurations
- Fewer customization options than semi-custom line
- Limited selection of door styles and species
- Quality control issues more likely than made-to-order cabinets
- Still an investment, priced higher than Ikea or big box store brands
For many homeowners, the pros of convenience and cost savings outweigh the cons of limited customization. But it’s important to weigh your needs and budget to decide if RTA cabinets are the right solution for your kitchen or bath project.
Are Rushmore RTA Cabinets Easy to Assemble?
Rushmore aims to make their RTA cabinets easy for homeowners to successfully assemble. Here are some ways they simplify the process:
- Detailed instructions – Rushmore provides clearly written step-by-step instructions with diagrams to guide you. Instructions are specific to each cabinet and hardware pack.
- Labeled parts – All cabinet pieces are labeled with letters or numbers that correspond to the instructions. The labeling helps identify what pieces connect.
- Packaged hardware – Hardware like hinges and drawer glides come packaged with the cabinets you need them for. You don’t have to figure out what goes where.
- Cam lock assembly – Cam locks allow cabinets to snap together tightly. No nails or glue needed for assembly.
- Pre-drilled holes – Door hinges have pre-drilled screw holes so you don’t have to measure and drill holes yourself.
- Technical assistance – Rushmore has an in-house technical team available if any issues come up during assembly.
The most complex part of assembly is typically the cabinet interiors. Adjusting doors and drawers to align properly and installing shelves/dividers in the cabinet boxes takes careful attention. Having two people can make assembly easier.
Set aside plenty of time for assembly. Take it slow, follow instructions, and ask for help if needed. With good instructions and some patience, Rushmore RTA cabinets are very DIY-friendly. Just don’t expect them to snap together as quickly as IKEA furniture!
What Tools Do You Need to Assemble Rushmore RTA Cabinets?
Assembling Rushmore RTA cabinets is totally doable as a DIY project if you have the right tools on hand. Here are the basic tools required:
- Screwdriver – Both a Phillips and flathead screwdriver. A power screwdriver can speed up assembly.
- Electric drill – For drilling pilot holes or tightening screws. Have a selection of drill bits on hand.
- Mallet – Helps tap pegs, cams, or dowels into place when joining cabinet parts. Use with caution.
- Level – Helps keep cabinets square and even during assembly and installation.
- Measuring tape – For verifying cabinet dimensions during assembly.
- Wood shims – For leveling cabinets when installed in your home.
- Pliers or clamps – For adding the finishing nails to reinforce cam lock joints.
- Utility knife – For opening boxes and cutting away packaging materials.
- Carpenter’s glue – For any small glue joints if needed. Rushmore RTA cabinets mostly use cam locks.
- Sandpaper – Helpful for smoothing any rough edges on cabinets or doors.
Safety gear like gloves and eye protection is also recommended when handling cabinet parts.
While most of these tools are common for basic home projects, some homeowners may need to purchase or borrow certain items just for RTA cabinet assembly. You certainly can pay for professional installation to avoid the tool costs and assembly work. But with the right gear, putting together Rushmore RTA cabinets is very achievable for a dedicated DIYer.
How Long Does It Take to Assemble Rushmore RTA Cabinets?
The time it takes to assemble Rushmore RTA cabinets depends on a few factors:
- Scope of project – Are you installing just a few wall cabinets or a full kitchen? More cabinets means more assembly time.
- Cabinet style – Basic square cabinets are quicker than cabinets with more complex designs.
- Skill level – Experienced DIYers can assemble cabinets faster than novices.
- Helper – Having an extra pair of hands speeds up the process.
As a general guideline for assembly time:
- One base cabinet – 1-2 hours
- Wall cabinet – 0.5-1 hour
- 4-5 base cabinets – 6-10 hours
- 10 upper cabinets – 6-8 hours
- Full 10×10 kitchen – 25-35 hours
Those estimates are for an experienced DIYer working solo. Budget significantly more time if you’re new to assembly work.
It’s ideal to block out a few days or weekends dedicated solely to cabinet construction. Trying to squeeze in an hour here and there after work leads to mistakes and frustration.
Be patient, follow instructions closely, and don’t rush the process. Well-assembled cabinets are worth the time investment. Just know it’s not an overnight project before committing to install Rushmore RTA cabinets on your own.
How to Care for and Clean Rushmore RTA Cabinets
Once your Rushmore RTA cabinets are assembled and installed, follow these tips to keep them looking beautiful:
- Use microfiber cloths to dust cabinets weekly.
- Clean doors with a mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaners.
- Use cabinet door bumpers to avoid banging and chipping doors.
- Open and close doors gently. Don’t slam them.
- Keep cabinets dry to avoid swelling and warping.
- Clean up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Consider glass door inserts for upper cabinets to reduce visible dust.
- Tighten hinges and connections if doors become loose.
- Use wood polish 2-3 times per year for added protection.
- Avoid direct heat sources like ovens that can damage finishes.
You invested time into assembling your Rushmore cabinets, so care for them properly through regular cleaning and maintenance. Taking good care of your kitchen cabinets will keep them functioning and looking like new for years of use.
Where to Buy Rushmore RTA Cabinets
Rushmore RTA cabinets are available through these sources:
- Direct from the Rushmore website – Ordering directly from Rushmore allows you to customize sizing and see exact pricing. Rushmore offers free design tools to create your kitchen layout.
- Home improvement stores – Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s may carry some popular Rushmore RTA cabinets in-stock for convenience. Inventory is limited compared to ordering direct.
- Kitchen and bath showrooms – Many independent home improvement showrooms offer a selection of Rushmore RTA cabinets. They can provide expert advice.
- Online retailers – Wayfair, Build.com, and eBay may sell some Rushmore cabinet collections online. Check seller reviews carefully first.
Always consult the full Rushmore cabinet catalog before purchasing to view your available options. Keep lead time in mind – custom configurations still take 2-3 weeks to produce. Carefully measure your space and plan your layout before ordering.
Choosing to install Rushmore RTA cabinets is a smart way to save on your kitchen or bath remodel. Just order carefully, set aside ample assembly time, and follow instructions closely. Your new DIY cabinets can transform the space both beautifully and affordably.
FAQ about Rushmore RTA Cabinets
Rushmore RTA cabinets offer great quality and value, but you probably still have plenty of questions if you’re considering installing them. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Rushmore’s RTA cabinetry line.
Are Rushmore RTA cabinets good quality?
Yes, Rushmore RTA cabinets are very good quality for ready-to-assemble furniture. They use many of the same materials and manufacturing processes as Rushmore’s semi-custom cabinets. Features like solid wood doors, plywood construction, and soft-close hardware are found even in their RTA line. While quality control issues can occur, overall Rushmore RTA cabinets meet or exceed the quality you’ll find with most other RTA cabinet brands.
How long do Rushmore RTA cabinets take to ship?
Rushmore quotes 2-3 weeks for production time on their RTA cabinets. The cabinets ship out once production is complete. Total time from order date to delivery is typically 3-4 weeks. Shipping times can vary based on your location and how many cabinets you order. Large orders may ship in multiple crates which can arrive on different days.
What is Rushmore’s return policy?
Rushmore accepts unopened RTA cabinet returns within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, minus the cost of return shipping. All contents must be intact in original packaging. Opened or assembled cabinets cannot be returned. Defective or damaged parts fall under Rushmore’s warranty policy. Inspect cabinets carefully before assembly to identify any issues upfront.
Do the cabinets come pre-finished?
Yes, Rushmore’s RTA cabinets come with a pre-applied finish over the final wood surfaces and doors. All you need to do is assemble the cabinets – no staining or painting required. Rushmore offers several stain, paint, and laminate finish options to choose from when ordering. The finishes are high-quality and durable.
What kind of wood do they use?
Rushmore RTA cabinets use solid hardwood for doors and drawer fronts. Wood options include oak, maple, cherry, and thermofoil laminate. The cabinet boxes consist of 3⁄4” plywood with wood veneer bands to cover exposed edges. Baltic birch plywood is used for drawer boxes. These are all high-quality woods perfect for cabinet building.
Can I customize Rushmore RTA cabinets?
Rushmore RTA cabinets allow you to customize size, finish, and minor details like the number of shelves. But you cannot fully customize or modify the cabinet design beyond the available options. Rushmore’s semi-custom line offers customizable cabinet configurations, while RTA provides an affordable standard cabinet solution.
Do I need any special tools to assemble Rushmore cabinets?
You just need basic DIY tools – a drill, screwdriver, mallet, and safety gear. Rushmore provides any specialty joining hardware needed. The most useful power tool is an electric drill with Phillips and small drill bits. A power screwdriver can also expedite assembly. No fancy cabinet building tools needed!
I hope this overview helps answer your questions about Rushmore RTA cabinets! They provide a quality, convenient cabinet solution at a reasonable price point for handy homeowners. Let me know if you have any other questions as you consider Rushmore’s RTA product line for your next project.
How Rushmore RTA Cabinets Compare to Other Brands
When selecting which ready-to-assemble cabinet brand to buy, it helps to compare Rushmore to other top options. Here is an overview of how Rushmore RTA cabinets stack up against other major manufacturers.
Rushmore vs. Hampton Bay
Hampton Bay is Home Depot’s house brand of RTA cabinets. They are a very affordable option, but quality concerns are common.
Rushmore Advantages:
- Thicker 3⁄4″ cabinet box construction
- Higher grade plywood and solid wood
- Wider variety of styles and species
- Soft-close hinges and glides
- Stronger warranty and customer service
Hampton Bay Advantages:
- Very low entry price points
- Often in-stock at Home Depot
Rushmore vs. Kraftmaid
Kraftmaid is sold through home improvement stores and offers mid-range to higher-end RTA cabinets.
Rushmore Advantages:
- Broader selection of door styles
- Faster shipping times
- Lower and more affordable pricing
Kraftmaid Advantages:
- Full extension soft-close drawer glides
- Lifetime limited warranty on boxes
Rushmore vs. Barker Cabinets
Barker is an online-only retailer with very affordable RTA cabinets.
Rushmore Advantages:
- Thicker cabinet boxes (3⁄4” vs. 5⁄8” Barker)
- More durable build quality and materials
- Soft-close mechanisms
- Locking cabinets for security
- Much stronger warranty
Barker Advantages:
- Lower entry-level prices
- More basic cabinet sizes
Rushmore vs. IKEA
IKEA is the budget leader for RTA cabinets but has quality issues.
Rushmore Advantages:
- Thicker cabinet boxes are more rigid
- Door hinges are adjustable
- Advanced soft-close mechanisms
- Locks included for security
- Significantly longer warranty
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