Differentiating Quality with Cabinets

ROHNERT PARK — When shopping for new cabinets, consumers often get confused by the price disparity between seemingly identical cabinet models. This is because the differences in quality that constitute the price difference aren’t always apparent at first glance.

Take two craftsman-style cabinets that look almost exactly the same but have a 20 percent difference in cost. Each is painted white, made of wood and has soft-close hinges, which allow the door to close smoothly and quietly. However, upon closer inspection, differences begin to emerge.

First, the doors: While the door of the less expensive cabinet is made of wood, it has a plywood center. You can tell by knocking on it—it has a more hollow sound than the other, which is composed of a solid wood panel.

When you open each cabinet, you’ll find more differences. The less expensive cabinet only has one shelf, and the interior is lined with a vinyl coating intended to imitate wood. Meanwhile, the higher-priced cabinet has two shelves, and the interior is painted white just like the exterior.

Altogether, these minor variations add up to a substantial difference in quality, which explains the difference in cost. That’s why, when comparing one cabinet to another, it’s important to take a closer look and understand exactly what you’re getting before you purchase.