Are Cabinets to Go Expensive? Uncovering the Hidden Costs Before You Buy
Embarking on a kitchen remodel is both exciting and daunting. The vision of a perfect space often clashes with the hard reality of a budget, and no single element weighs heavier on that budget than cabinetry.
Among the myriad of options, Cabinets to Go has emerged as a popular choice for many homeowners. But the central question remains: is it a truly affordable option, or are there financial traps waiting for the unwary renovator?
You'll Learn About
The Million-Dollar Question: What’s the Real Price Tag on Cabinets to Go?
Determining if Cabinets to Go is “expensive” is not a simple yes or no answer. The cost is a moving target, heavily influenced by your specific choices, the scope of your project, and factors you might not have considered.
Their pricing model caters to a wide spectrum of budgets, but understanding the core components that build the final price is the first step to knowing where you’ll land. The initial quote is just the beginning of the story.
Breaking Down the Basics: Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) vs. Assembled
Your first major cost decision point is choosing between RTA and pre-assembled cabinets. Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) cabinets are the most budget-conscious choice, as they are shipped in flat packs, and you are responsible for the labor of building them.
Conversely, pre-assembled cabinets arrive at your door fully built, saving you significant time and potential frustration. This convenience, however, comes at a higher price due to the factory labor and increased shipping costs.
Material Matters: How Your Choice Impacts the Final Bill
The materials used in your cabinets are another huge factor in the total cost. Options often range from more affordable Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) and particleboard to more durable and costly solid wood and plywood.
While base models might seem like a bargain, upgrading to plywood construction for better moisture resistance and longevity will increase the price. The style and finish also play a role; a simple, flat-panel door will be less expensive than a more intricate raised-panel design with a premium paint or stain.
Beyond the Sticker Price: The Hidden Costs That Inflate Your Budget
This is where many renovation budgets go off the rails. The price on the cabinet box or the initial design quote rarely reflects the total expenditure. Failing to account for these “hidden” costs can turn an affordable project into a financial strain.
Many customers report frustrations with unexpected charges and fees that weren’t clearly communicated upfront. Being aware of these potential add-ons is crucial for an accurate budget.
The Assembly and Installation Gauntlet
If you opt for RTA cabinets to save money, you must honestly assess your own skills and time. Assembly can be a complex and time-consuming process. What you save in money, you will spend in labor—whether it’s your own or that of a hired professional.
Professional installation costs can range from $50 to over $300 per linear foot. This can add thousands of dollars to your project, a necessary expense if you want the job done right but one that can come as a shock if not budgeted for.
Shipping and Handling: The Unexpected Budget Buster
Shipping costs for large items like cabinets can be substantial. Some customers have been surprised by high shipping fees, especially if they don’t live near a showroom for local pickup.
Even with local pickup, stories of damaged or missing pieces are not uncommon. This can lead to project delays and the added cost and frustration of reordering and making extra trips, turning a “convenient” option into a logistical headache.
Essential Extras: Hardware, Moldings, and Fillers
The cabinets themselves are just one part of the equation. Knobs and pulls, crown molding, light rail molding, and filler strips are all essential for a finished, professional look, but they are often priced separately.
These seemingly small additions can add up quickly. A beautiful set of cabinets can look unfinished and poorly integrated without the proper trim and hardware, making these “extras” a non-negotiable part of the final cost.
How Does Cabinets to Go Compare to the Competition?
To truly gauge the value of Cabinets to Go, it’s essential to see how they stack up against other major players in the market. Their pricing and quality are generally positioned in the low-to-mid range, offering a step up from some budget options without reaching the premium cost of custom work.
Understanding this positioning helps you make an informed choice based not just on price, but on overall value and quality. Considering a few alternatives like those offered in B. Jorgsen & Co or even exploring different material finishes as detailed in Cleaf cabinets reviews can provide a broader perspective on what the market offers.
| Retailer | Price Range (10×10 Kitchen) | Primary Material | Assembly | Customization Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets to Go | $2,200 – $6,500 | MDF, Plywood, Solid Wood | RTA & Assembled | Low to Medium |
| IKEA | $1,500 – $5,000 | Particleboard/MDF with Foil/Laminate | RTA Only | Medium (via modular system) |
| Home Depot/Lowe’s | $2,000 – $10,000+ | Particleboard, Plywood, Solid Wood | In-Stock, Semi-Custom | Low to High |
| Custom Cabinet Maker | $12,000 – $30,000+ | Primarily Plywood & Solid Wood | Professionally Assembled | Very High |
The Smart Shopper’s Guide: Maximizing Value at Cabinets to Go
Navigating the world of cabinet purchasing requires a strategic approach. It’s not just about finding the lowest price, but about getting the most durability, functionality, and style for your money. With a few key strategies, you can make a savvy investment.
By being a proactive and informed buyer, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your final cost aligns with your initial budget. This is how you transform a potentially expensive purchase into a smart one.
Timing is Everything: Catching the Best Sales and Promotions
One of the most effective ways to lower your cost is to be patient. Cabinets to Go frequently runs significant sales and promotions, especially around holidays. Signing up for their newsletter can alert you to discounts of 40% or even more.
Waiting for one of these sales can save you thousands of dollars, effectively neutralizing many of the hidden costs. They also offer a price-match guarantee, which can be a powerful tool if you find a comparable product for less elsewhere.
The Power of Design: Smart Layouts That Save You Money
Thoughtful kitchen design can lead to significant savings. For example, using one 36-inch wide base cabinet is almost always cheaper than using two 18-inch cabinets. This single choice reduces material costs and the amount of hardware needed.
Work with a designer—either their free in-store service or your own—to create a layout that minimizes the number of individual cabinets. This efficient approach not only saves money but often results in a more functional and visually appealing space with cleaner lines.
Quality vs. Cost: Finding the Sweet Spot in Their Product Lines
Not all cabinets are created equal, even within the same store. Pay close attention to the construction specifications of the cabinet line you choose. Opting for a line that uses plywood boxes instead of particleboard is a wise long-term investment.
Plywood offers greater structural rigidity and superior resistance to moisture—a critical factor in kitchens and bathrooms. This is especially important for popular white cabinet styles, where longevity and ease of cleaning the inside of white cabinets are key concerns for homeowners.
The Final Verdict: Is Cabinets to Go Worth the Investment?
So, are Cabinets to Go expensive? The answer is nuanced. They are not the cheapest option on the market, nor are they the most premium. They occupy a middle ground that can offer excellent value to the right customer.
For a budget-conscious homeowner who is willing to do their homework, wait for a sale, and carefully plan for additional costs, Cabinets to Go can be a very affordable solution. The quality can be a significant step up from basic builder-grade options, providing features like soft-close drawers and solid wood frames.
However, for a shopper who is easily swayed by a low sticker price without considering the costs of assembly, shipping, and essential extras, the final bill can be surprisingly high. The key to success is to approach the purchase with a comprehensive budget that accounts for every piece of the puzzle, from the cabinet boxes to the last piece of crown molding.
