Overview
Here, we compare Renoduck’s custom-built cabinetry, which is made in-house to fit any space, against prefabricated Ready-To-Assemble (RTA) cabinets, commonly used by other contractors. Understanding these differences helps homeowners see why investing in custom cabinetry ensures superior functionality, fit, and longevity.
- Renoduck Custom Cabinets: Built in-house to exact measurements, ensuring a perfect fit around bulkheads, unique layouts, and client preferences. Uses carefully selected high-density MDF and particle board for superior strength and longevity.
- Prefabricated RTA Cabinets: Mass-produced, standard-sized cabinets that may require modifications and fillers to fit irregular spaces, often made from the cheapest available materials.
Comparison Table
| Aspect | Renoduck Custom Cabinets | Prefabricated RTA Cabinets |
| Fit & Customization | Tailor-made to fit any space, including around bulkheads and unique layouts. | Comes in standard sizes, often requiring fillers or awkward modifications. |
| Material Quality | Uses high-density MDF and particle board from trusted vendors, selected based on density, abrasion resistance, and durability. | Often made of low-density MDF or particle board, chosen for cost savings rather than durability. |
| Hardware & Mechanisms | Premium Richelieu & Blum hardwareensures smooth operation, minimalmisalignment, and long-term durability. | Basic hinges and slides that wear out quickly, leading to doormisalignment and sticking drawers. |
| Construction | Fully assembled, built to last, with solid joinery techniques. | Ready-to-assemble, with camlocks and screws that loosen over time. |
| Durability | Long-lasting, designed for decades of use. | Prone to wear and tear, with a shorter lifespan. |
| Aesthetic Flexibility | Unlimited color, design, and style choices to match any home aesthetic. | Limited selection with fewer options for finishes and styles. |
| Stock Availability | No delays—every item is built to order, ensuring no missing components that could delay installation. | Stock issues are common, causing delays in project timelines when key pieces are unavailable. |
| Storage Efficiency | Maximized storage with custom solutions tailored to homeowner needs. | Fixed sizing often leads to wasted space or inefficient layouts. |
| Installation | Professionally installed for a precise, seamless finish. | Assembled on-site, often requiring adjustments or additional work. |
| Resale Value | Increases home value due to craftsmanship and tailored design. | Lower resale value as they areseen as budget-friendly, mass-produced solutions. |
Failure Timeline Comparison
1-3 Years
- Renoduck Custom Cabinets: Maintain original fit and finish, with hardware functioning like new.
- Prefabricated RTA Cabinets: Potential issues with loose fasteners, chipping veneer, and misaligned doors.
5-10 Years
- Renoduck Custom Cabinets: Still structurally sound with smooth-operating hinges and slides, maintaining a high-end look.
- Prefabricated RTA Cabinets: Hardware failure, sagging shelves, delamination, and swelling due to lower-quality materials.
10+ Years
- Renoduck Custom Cabinets: Cabinets, doors, and hardware continue functioning flawlessly, requiring only minor routine adjustments.
- Prefabricated RTA Cabinets: Significant wear, sticking drawers, misaligned doors, and full structural failure, requiring replacement.
Why Material & Hardware Quality Matters
- Better Material Selection – Unlike cheap RTA cabinets, Renoduck selects MDF and particle board based on density, durability, and abrasion resistance, ensuring longer- lasting cabinets.
- Superior Hardware – No Drawer Sticking or Door Misalignment – Richelieu & Blum hardware provides a smooth, silent user experience, unlike budget hinges and slides that wear out quickly.
- Stronger Construction for Decades of Use – Solid joinery, high-quality finishes, and reinforced mounting prevent sagging and misalignment.
- Optimized Fit for Any Space – Unlike standard-sized cabinets that leave wasted space, Renoduck’s custom builds maximize storage efficiency and design flexibility.
- Unlimited Style & Finish Options – Prefab cabinets limit homeowners to a handful of stock colors and designs, while Renoduck’s custom approach allows complete personalization to match any aesthetic.
- No Delays Due to Out-of-Stock Items – Since Renoduck manufactures everything in-house, there are no supply chain delays, ensuring on-time project completion.
Conclusion
Investing in Renoduck’s custom cabinetry ensures a perfect fit, better materials, and superior craftsmanship, making them the clear choice for homeowners seeking longevity and functionality. While prefabricated RTA cabinets may be cheaper upfront, they often result in wasted space, poor durability, misaligned doors, and frequent replacements.
For homeowners looking for lasting quality, personalized design, seamless installation, and no supply chain delays, Renoduck’s custom cabinetry is the best investment.