Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets provide a convenient and affordable option for many homeowners looking to remodel their kitchens or bathrooms. However, RTA cabinets are mass-produced and come in standard sizes, which leads some homeowners to wonder – can you get custom RTA cabinets made? The short answer is yes, you can often customize RTA cabinets to fit your unique space and design aesthetic. Here’s what you need to know about customizing RTA cabinets for your next renovation project.
What are RTA Cabinets?
RTA cabinets, sometimes referred to as flat pack or knockdown cabinets, come disassembled in a flat box. The cabinets require assembly before installation, which helps keep costs down compared to fully assembled cabinetry. RTA cabinets are typically made of materials like particle board, MDF, and plywood. They usually come with unfinished exteriors that you can paint or stain yourself.
Benefits of RTA Cabinets:
- More affordable than custom cabinetry
- Convenient home delivery
- Assembly required allows for some customization
- Wide variety of styles and finishes available
Limitations of RTA Cabinets:
- Limited to standard cabinet sizes
- Quality varies greatly by manufacturer
- Modifications are not as flexible as true custom cabinets
Customizing RTA Cabinets
Many homeowners choose RTA cabinets for the cost savings but still want to adjust the sizing or design to work perfectly in their kitchen or bathroom. Here are some of the customization options to consider with RTA cabinets:
Sizing Adjustments
While RTA cabinets come in standard widths like 12″, 15″, 18″, etc., many manufacturers offer customized sizing adjustments:
- Width – panels can be cut down narrower
- Height – cabinets can be ordered in non-standard heights
- Depth – adjustable shelving can alter depth
Modifications like adding filler strips can further tweak the fit. Just keep in mind that adjustments may limit future flexibility.
Door Style Swaps
Do you like the cabinet box but want to change up the door style? Many RTA brands allow you to easily swap out door designs. For example, you may upgrade a shaker cabinet to include more ornate doors. Custom door inserts are another option.
Storage Customization
To optimize your kitchen or bath storage, look for RTA brands that offer customized drawer and shelf configurations. Adjust interior partition locations or add functional elements like knife blocks, spice racks, or trash/recycling bins.
Finish Selection
While RTA cabinets come with unfinished exteriors, you get to choose the final look. Select a paint color to complement your interior design or go with a stain that highlights the wood grain. Distressed finishes are also possible for a cottage or farmhouse aesthetic.
Cabinet Add-Ons
Additional detailing like crown molding, light rails, glass cabinet doors, or custom hardware lets you put a signature touch on basic RTA cabinets. Detailed feet or corbels take it up another notch.
Ordering Customized RTA Cabinets
Ready to customize RTA cabinets for your next kitchen or bath remodel? Here are some tips for ordering:
- Provide the exact room dimensions so cabinets can be sized accordingly.
- Pick a manufacturer with robust customization options like modifying widths, depths, and heights.
- Browse all the available cabinet lines to find a door style you like before looking at customization possibilities.
- Ask about the best trim, molding, and hardware options to tie your design together.
- Request finish samples if you want an unconventional look like a two-tone color scheme.
- Use online design tools from the manufacturer or work with an in-store designer to create your dream layout.
- Plan lead times of 4-8 weeks for customized RTA cabinet orders.
With some thoughtful modifications, RTA cabinets offer homeowners both affordability and the ability to create a personalized kitchen or bathroom. Just partner with a manufacturer that provides flexible customization so you can tailor your ready-to-assemble cabinetry to your exact needs and preferences. The end result will look like you splurged on expensive custom cabinetry, but without the premium price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom RTA Cabinets
Can you customize RTA cabinets?
Yes, many RTA cabinet brands offer customization options for sizes, storage, door styles, finishes, and more. The key is choosing a manufacturer with robust capabilities to modify their standard cabinet boxes.
What are the most common RTA cabinet modifications?
Popular customizations for RTA cabinets include adjusting widths, heights, and depths, changing door styles and finishes, adding functional interior elements like roll-outs, and complementing with decorative moldings.
How much more do custom RTA cabinets cost?
Pricing varies, but expect to pay 20-50% more for customized RTA cabinets compared to standard sizes. The level of customization impacts costs. Small tweaks may have little upcharge, while highly modified cabinets are closer to full custom pricing.
Can you add crown molding to RTA cabinets?
Yes, crown molding is a great way to elevate the look of RTA cabinets. Many manufacturers offer coordinating molding that comes pre-finished and ready for installation. DIY kits are also available.
What RTA brands are best for custom cabinets?
Top brands for customized RTA cabinets include Cabinets To Go, RTA Cabinet Store, Barker Cabinets, Ready To Assemble Kitchens, and Cabinet Joint. Look for lots of sizing, storage, door, and finish options.
Should I assemble RTA cabinets before customizing?
Most modifications are easiest with the cabinets unassembled. However, some brands allow you to change doors, add trim, and make other tweaks after assembly. Check manufacturer guidance for each customization type.
With the right RTA cabinet brand, you can transform stock ready-to-assemble cabinets into beautiful, customized kitchen or bathroom storage. Seek out flexible sizing, storage options, door styles, and finishes to make basic RTA cabinet boxes distinctly your own. With strategic customization, you can enjoy designer-quality cabinets without the designer price tag!
