What to look for before you buy cabinets

Cabinetry is both a functional and esthetic necessity in any kitchen or bathroom. Cost is largely determined by the style of the doors and drawers. The least expensive option is often a simple flat or "slab" door, popular for seamless European designs. Other options which are available in many versions are the frame-and-panel designs. These are more traditional and include raised panel (both real and false), arched panel, beaded panel, and recessed or flat panel.

Since drawers bear more wear-and-tear than any other part of your cabinets they are the first place to look when assessing the quality of a cabinet. Solid-wood drawer boxes, sturdy dovetail joints, and full extension ball-bearing guides command premium prices, but if they are within budget they are a good long-term investment.

Next consider the door hinges which are critical hardware elements. If you aren't aiming for the period look of surface hardware, European or "invisible" hinges are the best and most trouble-free option. For convenience and adjustability, hinges should be able to reset with the cabinets in place.

Though solid lumber is sometimes used for cabinet boxes, this is pricy. Most cabinet boxes are made from Plywood, Particleboard (plain or laminated), or Medium Density Fiberboard (M.D.F.) Plywood is surfaced with attractive wood veneers on both face and back. The higher the face grade, the more you'll pay. Particleboard costs less, weighs more, and is both weaker and more prone to warping and moisture damage than Plywood. Generally, Particleboard vanities are faced with high-pressure plastic laminate, or with a softer material called Melamine. Medium-Density Fiberboard, a denser, furniture-grade particleboard is available with high-quality hardwood veneers.

Cabinet pulls are an esthetic option which can be used to tie together the theme of the room. If standard cabinet pulls are not included or if you don't like the included hardware, you may have to pay more, but you'll be able to customize for exactly the look you want.