Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets have become an increasingly popular option for Utah homeowners looking to remodel or upgrade their kitchens and bathrooms. RTA cabinets offer many benefits over traditional cabinetry, including cost savings, customization, and easier installation. Here is an overview of RTA cabinets in Utah – who provides them, why they are a great choice, and how to ensure you get quality cabinets for your next renovation project.
What are RTA Cabinets?
RTA cabinets, sometimes referred to as flat pack cabinets, are sold unassembled with all the pieces and hardware packed flat in a box. The cabinets must be put together by the homeowner or contractor, following detailed instructions. The main advantages of RTA cabinets are:
- Cost Savings – RTA cabinets are up to 50% cheaper than assembled cabinetry since no labor fees for assembly are included in the price.
- Convenience – The flat packed cabinets are lighter and take up less space, making them easier to transport and maneuver into place.
- Customization – RTA cabinets can be customized with different sizes, finishes, and accessories to fit your exact design needs.
- Easier Installation – Installing RTA cabinets is a DIY project for many homeowners versus more complex professional installations of pre-assembled cabinets.
While RTA cabinets do require some assembly, the process is designed to be straightforward even for those with minimal DIY experience. Instructions provide clear steps and hardware is labeled for each piece.
Who Does RTA Cabinets in Utah?
There are a few major companies that manufacture and sell quality RTA cabinets in Utah:
Barker Cabinets
Barker Cabinets started in Utah in 2000 and their manufacturing facility is located in St. George. They offer RTA cabinets constructed from solid wood rather than cheaper particle board. Barker allows clients to fully customize cabinets including dimensions, wood type, color, and accessories. Their RTA cabinets come with a lifetime warranty.
Cabinets To Go
A national supplier with an authorized dealer in the Salt Lake City area, Cabinets To Go carries over 100 RTA cabinet styles. Their cabinets are more affordably priced and made from a wood and laminate composite. They have an online design tool to customize and order cabinets which ship within 5 days.
IKEA
The iconic Swedish furniture company sells affordable RTA kitchen and bathroom cabinetry in their Draper, Utah store and online. IKEA cabinets are made of particle board with laminate finishes. Modular components make customizing easy and IKEA provides 25 year warranties on their cabinet doors and frames.
Why Choose RTA Cabinets for Your Utah Home?
Here are some of the top reasons RTA cabinets make sense for many Utah homeowners:
Cost Savings
The number one driver behind choosing RTA cabinets is the significant cost savings versus pre-assembled. As labor is one of the biggest expenses, this is eliminated with DIY assembly. RTA cabinets themselves also tend to cost less due to streamlined manufacturing. Utah homeowners can save from 30-50% off traditional cabinetry.
Convenience
Transporting and installing bulky assembled cabinets can be difficult. RTA cabinets ship flat in compact boxes that easily fit through doorways and nail down quickly. No specialized crews are needed for fancy installation work.
Customization Options
Since RTA cabinets do not rely on standard sizing, homeowners can fully customize to precisely fit their kitchen layout and storage needs. Mix and match cabinet heights, widths, depths, finishes, and accessories.
Quality Materials
While RTA used to have a reputation for cheap materials like particle board, many now offer solid wood doors and frames while keeping costs low. Carefully vet the materials and warranties when comparing brands.
Efficient Installation
With clear instructions and labeling, RTA cabinets allow DIY-savvy Utah homeowners to install their new kitchen cabinets over a weekend. Or hire a handyman service at an hourly rate for a fraction of the cost of a cabinet specialist.
How to Choose the Best RTA Cabinets
Follow these tips to select quality RTA cabinets for your next Utah kitchen or bath remodel:
- Carefully measure your existing space and create plans for your ideal layout before ordering cabinets. Account for lazy susans, pull-outs, appliance garages and other specialty items.
- Select a reputable brand that uses solid wood frames and doors, avoiding cheaper particle board options. Look for water-resistant finishes.
- Check warranties closely to understand coverage for materials and defects. Lifetime warranties are ideal.
- Choose durable hardware with soft-closing hinges and slides to prevent slamming and improve longevity.
- Don’t skimp – opt for plywood side panels and cabinet backs versus thin hardboard.
- Inspect cabinets upon arrival for any damage before accepting delivery.
- Take time to carefully follow instructions for proper assembly. Use levels, wood glue, and clamps as needed.
Installing RTA Cabinets in Utah Homes
Here are some best practices to ensure your DIY RTA cabinet installation goes smoothly:
- Review instructions thoroughly before beginning and have all tools on hand, including drill, screwdrivers, glue, and safety gear.
- Clean and level the installation surface. Use shims under cabinets if the floor is uneven.
- Assemble one cabinet fully first to understand the process before moving onto all units.
- Follow hardware instructions carefully to avoid striping or damaging cabinet parts.
- Apply glue generously during assembly and let dry completely before hanging cabinets.
- Mount upper cabinets first, using a helper or temporary supports to hold in place while fastening.
- Use filler panels between cabinet ends and walls. Seal with caulk for a seamless finish.
- Add molding, trim, and end panels for a built-in custom look. Use crown molding to transition to ceilings.
Conclusion
RTA cabinets offer Utah homeowners a budget-friendly path to a beautiful new kitchen or bath. Choosing quality materials, smart customization, and proper installation are key to getting a high-end look without the luxury cost. Companies like Barker Cabinets, Cabinets to Go, and IKEA make the process smooth from online ordering through convenient DIY assembly. With some strategic planning and elbow grease, RTA cabinets can transform your home with upgraded style and storage.
