Difference Between Stock Cabinets, Semi-Custom Cabinets & Custom Cabinets

You hear it all of the time. This company sells stock cabinets. They are cheap. That company makes semi-custom cabinets but they cost more. This guy only builds custom cabinets. So what is the difference? I thought I would take a moment to share my thoughts on each.

First, you have stock cabinets. These are typically found at the large big box home improvement stores. They are mass produced and allow the user no flexability in any customization. They come in many different sizes and in the past ten years, also a great many choices of colors and styles. They are affordable but as I stated before, you have to work within the framework of what is offered. No more and no less.

The second option and in my opinion, the best are semi-custom cabinets. These are cabinets that are manufactured usually in stock sizes, however, can also be altered in width, depth or height depending on the need. Typically, these are a better grade of cabinet and offers the end user a greater deal of flexibility in designing their kitchen to fit their needs. A good designer will always try and design in stock sizes and then just alter the few cabinets that need to be modified in order to save on cost.

Lastly, custom cabinets. First we have to define the word custom. It sounds expensive but most things are when built especially for you. Most manufacturer’s try and stay clear of calling themselves custom because of the conatation of being associated with being expensive. A good custom cabinet maker will make every cabinet unique to fit the required space or need of the customer. There is a definite trend here between semi custom and custom cabinets because even custom cabinet makers will still typically design in standard sizes but use a custom cabinet or piece when needed.

So what is the best cabinet for you really depends on your needs. If you are on a tight budget and your space is not unique, then a good stock cabinet will work just fine. If you want a higher quality cabinet with a lot of options and flexibility in your design, then I would encourage you to find a semi-custom cabinet that will meet all of your needs. If you cannot find what you are looking for then finding a custom cabinet maker to build your vision is the answer for you. All three will fulfill your need in building that beautiful kitchen or bath.

Visit one of our showrooms to see our custom cabinets, either in Chicago or Lombard. If you have any questions about our products please email us at info@buildmykitchen.com or call us at (312) 829-4300. We would love to hear from you!