Custom vs. Stock Cabinets: What’s the Difference?

Deciding on the right cabinets can be difficult when completing a kitchen remodel. When choosing cabinets, you can go with custom cabinets or stock cabinets. Understanding more about the pros and cons of each option can help you decide which cabinets will best meet your needs in your new kitchen. 

What are stock cabinets?

The manufacturer designed and constructed stock cabinets based on established styles and measurements. They come in different sizes, configurations, and styles. You can choose from these variations to select a cabinet layout that matches the size of your kitchen and coincides with how you plan to use your kitchen. 

Pros of using stocked cabinets

• Affordability – Stock cabinets are more affordable than custom cabinets because they’re mass-produced. Stock cabinets may also be made with cheaper materials than stock cabinets, which can also decrease their price. 
• Standard sizes and styles – These cabinets come in standard sizes based on traditional kitchen measurements. This determines the height, width, and depth of stock cabinets, although they are available in different sizes and configurations.
• Quicker availability – Stock cabinets are pre-built and usually ready to be installed much more quickly than custom cabinets. Stock cabinets are ideal if you need to complete your kitchen renovation quickly. 

Cons of using stock cabinets

• Limited customization – When you choose stock cabinets, you’re subject to what’s available from the manufacturer. This means you may not have as many styles or colors to choose from.
• Standard quality – Stock cabinets may not be as high quality as custom cabinets. When you choose custom cabinets, you can decide which materials you wish your cabinets to be made from. Stock cabinets are produced in mass quantities and are often made of cheaper materials.
• May not fit in unique spaces – This may not be an issue if your kitchen is square or rectangular. But many kitchens, especially those in older homes, have odd nooks and crannies. Stock cabinets may not be able to fit into these unique spaces. 

What are custom cabinets?

Custom cabinets are designed specifically for your space. You can work with a custom cabinet provider to design cabinetry that fits your kitchen, matches your desired aesthetic, and functions well based on your needs. You can choose finishes, design elements, sizes, and materials during your consultation. 

Pros of custom cabinets

• Tailored to specific needs and space – When you choose custom cabinets, you can have them built specifically for your needs and to fit in your space. You can choose from different types of cabinets, add customized drawers, and have them constructed of the materials you prefer.
• High-quality materials and craftsmanship – Custom cabinets are built to order and are made by experienced cabinet makers. This means attention to detail and high-quality design, which means your custom cabinets will last for many years in your kitchen.
• Unlimited design options – Custom cabinets are virtually limited only by your creativity. Custom cabinet makers are experienced in working with various materials and building many types of cabinets and kitchen fixtures.

Cons of custom cabinets

• Higher cost – Custom cabinets can cost significantly more than stock cabinets. They are being designed and manufactured to your specifications, and are often constructed better than stock cabinets, which increases the cost.
• Longer lead time Making custom cabinets takes time. Whereas you can simply order stock cabinets and have them installed, your custom cabinets are being made from scratch, which can take time.
• Requires professional installation Custom cabinets require professional installation due to their design and installation requirements. This can also increase your costs and make your kitchen renovation project take longer.

Also Read: Top Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for a Stylish Upgrade

Price comparison

The price difference between stock cabinets and custom cabinets is often significant. Cabinets are generally priced by linear square feet. Depending on the size of your kitchen, the type and style of cabinets you want, and the materials you prefer, stock cabinets for an average-sized kitchen could cost several thousand dollars whereas custom cabinets can be $20,000 or more. 

Design and customization

Custom cabinets can be designed to your specifications. You can choose the sizes, finishes, fixtures, decorative details, and materials. You can custom-design drawers and shelves to hold specialty kitchen tools or gadgets. You may wish to display special dishware by including glass doors or open shelving. With customized cabinets, you have virtually unlimited choices.

Quality and durability

Custom cabinets are not mass-produced, which means they’re manufactured per order. This allows the cabinet manufacturer to pay close attention to detail and provide expert craftsmanship. Custom cabinets may be made from various materials, many of which are designed to last through years and years of use.

Lead time and installation

Due to cabinet quality and design, custom cabinets should be installed by those with experience. This can take longer than having stock cabinets installed, but it ensures that your cabinets are installed properly for style and function. 

Stock cabinets vs custom cabinets FAQs

What’s the difference between stock and custom cabinets? 

Stock cabinets are mass-produced and designed based on standard sizes and functions. Custom cabinets are made to order and designed to fit your specific needs and kitchen space.

What are the advantages of stock cabinets?

Stock cabinets are more affordable and can usually be installed more quickly when compared to custom cabinets. 

What are the disadvantages of custom cabinets?

Custom cabinets are pricier due to the many customization options and the manufacturing process. They also take longer to build, lengthening the kitchen remodel process. 

What are semi-custom cabinets?

Semi-custom cabinets use pre-built elements but still allow you to customize certain features of your cabinetry before installation.

Are custom cabinets worth it?

Many homeowners in Canada who choose custom cabinets appreciate the option to customize the design specifically to their needs. While the price can be much higher, and the process can take longer, homeowners often find that the cabinet quality associated with custom cabinetry is worth it. 

Homeowners in Canada who are planning a kitchen renovation can benefit from contacting Modern Kitchen Renovation for a free consultation. Choosing the right cabinets is an important decision when completing a kitchen remodel. The experienced team can provide information on how best to choose between custom cabinets and stock cabinets based on cabinet design, quality, cost, and installation.