Introduction to Kitchen and Bath Cabinetry

source: Woodharbor Doors & Cabinetry

Cabinetry is a large part of any kitchen or bath remodel and is often the foundation for the overall look and feel of the room. Cabinets come in a wide variety of types, styles and materials that will compliment any décor and any budget.

Cabinets typically represent a significant part of the budget - usually around 40 to 50 percent of a kitchen remodel, so it’s important to have a general understanding of the basic elements of cabinetry and know what your options are before making such a big purchase.

Cabinet pricing can vary greatly depending on whether you select stock cabinets, semi custom or custom cabinets. Cabinet style, door style, materials and accessories can also make a big impact on costs.

If new cabinets just aren’t in the budget there are alternatives such as re-facing or refinishing. Painting kitchen cabinets and adding new knobs and pulls is a quick and budget friendly way to revitalize your space.

Before shopping for new cabinets you will need a floor plan. If you are doing a major remodel that involves relocating walls or plumbing you will probably want to hire a kitchen or bath designer who will do a set of plans for you, but if you are not changing the layout of your kitchen or bath but instead you are simply replacing existing cabinets you can draw up a quick plan yourself.

Drawing Your own Kitchen or Bath Plan

To draw up your own basic kitchen or bath plan all you will need is some paper, a pencil and a measuring tape. Start by drawing the layout of your room then it’s time to measure. The measurements you will need include the overall length and width of the room as well as locations of the windows, doors. You should also note the location of plumbing as well as any appliances and their sizes. Finally, note the ceiling height and any obstacles that may interfere with the new cabinetry such as heating or air conditioning vents.

If measuring your kitchen or bath seems overwhelming, many home improvement stores and cabinet showrooms have in house designers who can help you with your plan

Kitchen Cabinetry Web Guide

• Guide to Measuring your Kitchen or Bath
  Great advice on how to make kitchen or bath plan with measurements.

• Introduction to Cabinetry Terms
  This is a basic but nice explanation of some basic cabinetry that will come in handy when shopping for kitchen or bath cabinetry.