By AJ Fagan – Superintendent | September 20, 2024

At Hiwa Builders, we often meet with clients who are limited by budget restrictions on projects and they are often looking for the best way to save as much money as possible. This is especially true when it comes to kitchen and bath remodels. Oftentimes some of the largest expenses of those jobs are found in the cabinet costs.

As a result, the immediate response is to look to the prefabricated market to accommodate those desires and to lower the cost of the overall project but this approach has its strengths and weaknesses. Today we will be discussing the pros and cons of Prefabricated Cabinets vs. Custom Cabinets. Both options come with distinct advantages and disadvantages so we’re going to explain the differences to help you make an informed decision for your home.

First, let’s take a look at Prefabricated Cabinets. These selections are found at big box stores, online suppliers, and cabinet wholesalers. They are usually cost effective, and quickly available. If you are working on a project with a limited timeline, you may want to consider these to keep your project moving along. 

While these cabinets do come in a variety of styles, they are typically limited in finishes, door styles and other details or features that may or may not be a dealbreaker for you. We find that many of these products may only be available in one or two door styles and finish combinations forcing you to choose something you can live with rather than what you really want.

Additionally, the quality of these cabinets tend to be pretty consistent due to the fact that they are mass produced in a repetitive manner. That consistency is not always set at the highest of quality standards. When you look deeper into the actual construction of these cabinets, you will usually find that lower quality materials such as MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or particle board have been used to bring down the overall cost. While these products do make the cabinet more affordable, they are prone to moisture and may not stand the test of time especially in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

MDF vs. Hardwood

While there is a time and a place for prefabricated cabinets, we tend to encourage these types of cabinets to people who are looking for builder grade options or for rental spaces. These are budget-friendly and get the job done.

When it comes to the space that you are going to be living in every day or spaces where clients are looking to accentuate their fit and finish to enhance their living experience, this is where custom cabinets are second to none. We encourage all our clients who are updating their primary residence to explore all the possibilities that custom cabinets can provide. Here are a few: 

Tailored Design: Custom cabinets are built specifically for your space. You can work with a designer or cabinet maker to ensure the cabinetry fits perfectly, no matter how unique the dimensions of your room are. Custom cabinets also allow you to select the exact materials, hardware, and finishes you desire, ensuring a truly personalized result.

Higher-Quality Materials: Custom cabinets are often made from high-quality, durable materials like hardwoods, solid plywood, or other premium woods. Using superior materials means that your cabinets will likely last longer and withstand the rigors of daily use.

Finish options: Custom cabinet finishes are only limited by your imagination and the skill of your painter. Custom cabinets can be finished in any color, including the custom color of your choice. Additionally, they can be stained or clear coated to bring out the natural beauty of your wood selection. 

Longevity and Value: The lifespan of custom cabinets is typically much longer than that of prefabricated ones. They are designed and built with attention to detail, making them an investment that can enhance your home’s resale value over time.

Unique Features: With custom cabinets, you can incorporate unique storage solutions, specialized shelving, and custom finishes. Whether you need extra-deep drawers, hidden compartments, or space for unique appliances, custom cabinetry can accommodate these needs.

Lazy Susan and Pull-Out Drawer Customizations. © 2024 Hiwa Inc.

Cost: The most significant downside of custom cabinets is the price. They can be much more expensive than prefabricated cabinets due to the materials, labor, and design involved. The beauty of custom cabinets on a set budget is that the cabinet maker can provide you with options that will fit within your budget.

Longer Lead Time: Custom cabinets take time to design, build, and install. Unlike prefabricated options, which are available immediately, custom cabinetry can take weeks or even months to complete. This is an important factor to consider if you’re working within a tight schedule.

Both prefabricated and custom cabinets have their merits, and the right choice depends on your priorities—budget, timeline, and design preferences. If you’re looking for a quick, affordable solution with standard designs, prefabricated cabinets are a practical choice. On the other hand, if you want a personalized, long-lasting investment tailored to your home, custom cabinets offer superior craftsmanship and style.