Whether building new or remodeling, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is the choice between custom cabinets like those crafted by Holland’s Custom Cabinets or off-the-shelf options. While the allure of lower upfront costs might make non-custom cabinets seem like a good deal, there are hidden costs and other considerations that often make custom cabinets the better choice.
Do Non-Custom Cabinets Really Save Money?
Many homeowners initially consider non-custom cabinets because of the perceived cost savings. It’s true that non-custom cabinets can be cheaper upfront, but their price tag often comes with compromises in quality and longevity.
Quality and Durability—Off-the-shelf cabinets are often made from lower-quality materials and may not hold up well over time. On the other hand, custom cabinets are built to last, which means fewer replacements and repairs down the road. With Holland’s, our work comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. You won’t find that level of support with non-custom options.
Right Fit—Non-custom cabinets often require altering a space’s existing footprint to accommodate standard sizes, while custom cabinets are tailored to the unique dimensions and needs of a room. Thus, the custom cabinet approach can save time and money that might be spent on extensive remodeling.
Labor and Installation—The cost of hiring third-party subcontractors to finish and/or install non-custom cabinets can add up. Holland’s handles cabinetmaking, finishing, and installation in-house, which makes the entire process more cost-effective and streamlined.
Unforeseen Circumstances—The Holland’s team collaborates with homeowners and contractors throughout the remodeling and custom cabinetmaking process to identify potential issues such as wiring, plumbing, or structural challenges before installation. In contrast, third-party installers of non-custom cabinets often discover such surprises only during installation, which can lead to unexpected and costly delays and adjustments.
Lead Time—Surprisingly, made to order custom cabinets can often be ready more quickly than non-custom options. Off-the-shelf cabinets might be subject to longer lead times due to stock issues or shipping delays from overseas.
Longevity and Performance
One of the most compelling reasons to choose custom cabinets is their longevity. Custom cabinets are designed to withstand the test of time, both in terms of durability and style.
So while off-the-shelf cabinets might save some money up front, they often require replacement or significant repairs sooner than custom cabinets. Investing in custom cabinets means fewer headaches and costs related to maintenance and upgrades in the future.
Custom Cabinets Add Value
Compared to off-the-shelf cabinetry, the high-quality, aesthetic appeal of custom cabinets can add a touch of luxury that increases a home’s overall attractiveness and value. As a desirable feature, they can be difference makers, often leading to quicker sales at higher prices for homes on the market.
The Holland’s Advantage
At Holland’s, we consider custom cabinets to be an investment. Starting with material quality and craftsmanship, whether you’re remodeling a single bathroom, a kitchen, or an entire house, we tailor each piece to fit your space perfectly.
In fact, Holland’s manages every aspect of a project in-house, from ideation to building cabinets to installing them. This not only ensures high-quality results but also helps us control costs. Additionally, our ability to scale projects means that whether you need cabinets for a single room or an entire home, we can offer solutions that maximize value and minimize hidden expenses.
Invest in Quality
Essentially, the choice between custom and non-custom cabinets boils down to long-term value versus upfront cost. While non-custom cabinets might seem like a bargain, hidden costs can quickly add up, making custom cabinets a smarter overall investment.
At Holland’s, our process ensures that you get the best possible cabinets, tailored to your needs, without the hidden expenses often associated with non-custom options. By considering the full picture—including material quality, additional labor costs, lead times, and long-term durability—it becomes clear that custom cabinets offer a superior return on investment.
The Holland’s team is here to help you explore a custom cabinetry solution for your kitchen, bathroom, living area, home office, or other setting. Call us today at 619.443.6081 or contact us online to begin.
