Boxes and materials
Cabinet boxes are built from plywood or particleboard. Plywood resists sag and moisture better, and it is the choice for quality cabinets.
Backs and bottoms should be solid, not thin.
Face frame or frameless
Face frame cabinets have a hardwood frame on the front, and frameless cabinets use full overlay doors on the box. Each has a look and a feel.
Face frames are traditional and strong.
Door styles
Shaker, inset, slab, raised panel and beaded styles each suit different kitchens. Painted and stained finishes change the feel.
Look at samples in your own light.
Drawers and hardware
Dovetailed drawers and full-extension, soft-close slides last longest. Hinges should be adjustable in three directions.
Hardware is worth a little extra.
Finishes
Paint, stain and clear coats protect the wood and set the look. Spray finishes give a smooth, durable surface.
Ask how many coats and what kind.
Installation
Walls and floors are rarely level. Installers shim, scribe and fasten into studs so the cabinets are level, plumb and tight to the wall.
Good installation looks easy.
Look past the doors at the box, the drawers and the hardware, because that is where quality lives.
