Buying kitchen cabinets isn’t always a straightforward task, as there are so many options available. One of the most important things you need to be aware of is the construction of the cabinets you’re buying.

You don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune to get kitchen cabinets that will last, and remain in good condition. Whatever amount you spend, the most important thing is getting the best value for your money. Whether you’re buying stock cabinets or custom kitchen cabinets, here are some construction aspects you should look out for.

Does the cabinet have a fully finished back?

This may seem like a strange question, but not all kitchen cabinets have a back to them. Sometimes manufacturers save money by using only a top strip at the back of a cabinet, and using the wall of the kitchen as a back. In the long term this will cause problems, as the cabinet goes not have the same level of stability as one with a full back.

Is the construction of the cabinet wood to wood?

There can be a difference in the way the wood in kitchen cabinets is joined. For the optimum amount of strength and durability, wood should be joined using a system such as tongue-and-groove or wood dowel. Some cabinets rely on screws or bolts to keep them together. This type of cabinet lacks strength, and is likely to develop issues.

Was the cabinet manufactured using sustainable methods?

If you’re concerned about the environment, as well as the durability and style of your cabinets, you will need to be aware of how the cabinets were manufactured. These are a few points to think about.

• Does the wood used come from a sustainable source.
• Are finishes used low-VOC (volatile organic compound)
• Is packaging used suitable for recycling?
• Is the manufacturing process environmentally friendly?

You should be able to check out this information with just a few questions to the manufacturer, and some background research.

What about the hardware?

It isn’t just the material used to manufacture a cabinet that’s important, but the hardware too. You should check the extension of the drawers, and the ease of the glide. You don’t want to be stuck with cabinets that have drawers which are difficult to use. Many cabinets are now built with features including soft closing and self-closing drawers. Not only can this help to reduce wear and tear on the drawer, it’s also helpful from a safety point of view. Soft closing drawers help to prevent fingers getting trapped if drawers shut too quickly.

Is cabinet space maximized?

Cabinets can be constructed to have enough strength in their sides to negate the need for a vertical support rail. This enables full access to the cabinet, making better use of the space. You should also check to see if the shelves of a cabinet are adjustable. Having adjustable shelves can give you a better use of space in your cabinets.

The most important thing to remember when buying a cabinet is that an affordable prices needs to be accompanied by an acceptable level of durability, otherwise it can just turn out to be false economy.