If you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom, you’ve probably come across a variety of cabinet options. One term you are likely to see keep popping up is “RTA cabinets” or “Ready to Assemble cabinets.” But what are RTA cabinets, and why are they becoming so popular? In this article, we’ll explore the concept of RTA cabinets, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide if they’re right for your project!
What are RTA cabinets?
RTA stands for Ready to Assemble. Unlike pre-assembled cabinets that arrive at your home fully assembled, RTA cabinets are shipped in flat packaging, requiring assembly after delivery. To sum it up, you’ll receive the cabinet components such as doors, frame, shelving, hinges, and hardware. It will be up to you, or a certified installer, to fully construct your cabinets.
How Are RTA Cabinets Constructed?
RTA cabinets are typically made from high quality materials such as plywood, MDF, or hardwood. The panels and parts are precision cut and drilled, ensuring that they fit together well and remain strong for years to come. With advancements in construction processes, today’s RTA cabinets are designed to be easy to put together, without needing any special tools or expertise.
The Benefits of RTA Cabinets
Cost Effectiveness
One of the biggest advantages of RTA cabinets is their affordability. Since they don’t come assembled from the manufacturer, RTA cabinets are cheaper to make, store, and ship! RTA cabinets can save you anywhere from 30-50% compared to custom or pre-assembled cabinets, without lacking in quality.
DIY Friendly
If you enjoy a good DIY project, RTA cabinets can be a very satisfying experience. Many RTA cabinets come with clear, easy to follow instructions, making the process often similar to assembling flat-pack furniture. With basic tools and a bit of time, you can tackle this project yourself!
Quick Availability and Shipping
RTA cabinets are often available in stock, which means faster shipping, and shorter wait times compared to custom cabinets. This can be a major advantage for anyone working on a tight budget and timeline.
Variety of Styles and Finishes
Modern RTA cabinets come in a vast range of styles, finishes and materials. Allowing you to exactly match your ideal look. Whether you prefer a classic wood finish, a sleek modern look, or something completely unique, you’re likely to find RTA cabinets to suit!
Quality Options
Many RTA manufacturers offer high quality construction with durable materials like solid wood, plywood, and quality hardware to match. When properly assembled, RTA cabinets can rival the strength and longevity of more expensive custom options!
The Potential Drawbacks of RTA Cabinets
Assembly Required
Although assembly instructions are usually included, putting together RTA cabinets can be time-consuming. If DIY isn’t for you, you may need to hire someone to do the job for you.
Limited Customization
While RTA cabinets offer a range of styles and sizes, they may not provide the same level of customization as custom-built cabinets. If your kitchen has unique dimensions or specific storage requirements, finding RTA cabinets that meet those needs may be challenging.
Variable Quality Across Brands
Not all RTA cabinets are created equal. While many reputable brands offer high quality, durable options, some budget options might not follow the same path. Opting for materials that do not stand up as well as others. It’s important to do your research and invest in quality brands to ensure long term satisfaction.
Who are RTA Cabinets Right For?
RTA cabinets are ideal for budget conscious homeowners looking to refresh their kitchen or bathroom without the large price tag that comes with custom cabinets. They’re also a great option for those with DIY skills, and who are willing to take on the assembly themselves. If you’re managing a renovation timeline and want cabinets that ship quickly, RTA cabinets will be your best bet in most cases.
However, if you have very specific customization needs or prefer not to handle any assembly, you want to explore other options or look into having some install them for you.
Tips for Buying RTA Cabinets
- Choose Reputable Brands
- Pay Attention to Materials Used
- Inspect Assembly Instructions
- Consider any Additional Costs
Final Thoughts
RTA cabinets offer a budget-friendly and custom option that can elevate your space without breaking the bank. From high quality materials to various style options, RTA cabinets are a flexible option for homeowners who want stylish and functional cabinets at an affordable price. Just remember to do your research, shop with reputable brands and be prepared for the assembly process.
Whether you are a DIY-er or simply looking for affordable yet stylish and reliable cabinets, ETA cabinets might just be the perfect fit for your project!
