It’s rare that anyone combine phrases like “cost effective” and “custom cabinets” in the same sentence. For a long time custom cabinets were not affordable for those that hoped for a customized kitchen made by those with carpentry talent. However, technology is changing the front of most areas of our lives and this includes the manufacturing of custom cabinets. Large cabinet manufacturers have used this technology for years but now smaller shops are starting to invest just to compete with the large manufacturing process but with one big exception. They strive to maintain a custom service with their custom cabinets. Unfortunately, not every custom cabinet shop can make such an investment but I interviewed one such cabinet maker that did.
I’m writing this article because I believe in the small business. I support entrepreneurs but more importantly those with such a unique skill set that when combined with technology can offer you some of the best custom cabinets of all time. How is this possible? A lot has to do with the machines behind the cabinets. No longer do men need to hold up a large 4 foot by 8 foot sheet of plywood in order to cut with a table saw and hold a straight line. Now, they can set it down on a robotic table and allow the computer program to cut the pieces out within 1/100th of an inch in accuracy. Not only is this accurate BUT cost effective for you.
Larger companies in the business of making custom cabinets have long been using the robotic cutting systems as a source of reliable manpower. These machines show up for work on time, they never complain nor ask for more money. Most importantly they are fast and super accurate. The cost of this equipment has come down some but truly only a handful of smaller shops are starting to purchase this type of equipment in order to compete with the “big guys” and I interviewed one such custom cabinet shop in Charlotte, NC. They have certainly increased their equipment but at the same time they strive to maintain a custom service with their custom cabinets. Unfortunately, not every custom cabinet shop can make such an investment but Steve Oates did.
He went on to explain that larger manufacturers leave no room for custom cabinet revisions without up charging the client. But not him. Steve said, “Everything we do is customized. Recently I went to Charlotte home and noticed the upper cabinet above the stovetop hood wasn’t allowing the hood to fit properly. Since they wanted to reuse the hood.. I simply added an extra ” to the width (1/8″ on each side for extra space).” I asked him if there was any additional charge and he laughed. He said, “Charges? No way. That’s part of the custom service they get with their custom cabinets and my price is hard to beat in Charlotte.”
In closing Steve shared more about the custom service that they work so hard to maintain. He shared, “I mention to all my clients wanting to invest in custom cabinets. The process of preparing, designing and installing custom cabinets is just as important as enjoying the end product. Many of my clients share disappointing stories about the contractor that sold well and delivered poorly.” Steve continues, “We strive to shatter their conception of a contractor. From the moment we step foot into their home until we remove our last tool. It is our desire to develop a working relationship with our clients. We are committed to developing an enjoyable process and product that they show off and share with friends. Even more important. I trust they will use their new custom kitchen so that it becomes a focal point in their home as they create moments of community with neighbors, family and friends. That’s the true beauty created from the use of a functional and spacious kitchen.
Outdated Kitchen? Before you buy any custom kitchen cabinets be sure to read this aricle about custom kitchen cabinets, Custom Kitchen Cabinets.