Replies

1. 
   Frank_"Mad_Dog"_Maglin | Dec 07, 2000 03:10pm | #1

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   The ones I build.I build mine with the best of materials and strong joinery.

   The only experience I've had with manufactured cabinets is when a customer once thought he'd save money with cabinets from Payless Cashways. He asked if I would do the installation. Many filler pieces were missing and the only thing that constituted the angled sink base was a face frame and doors. The carcase had to be built on site with other materials. After it was all done I could have built him custom units without alot of extras for not a whole lot more money.

   I'm sure there are some better brands of manufactured units out there, but I guess I'm just prejudiced to my custom built ones.

1. 
   CaseyR_ | Dec 07, 2000 09:33pm | #2

   *This question has been asked several times before. I think there are specific manufacturers discussed and you could find them with a search of the archives. However, if memory serves, there are also many claims that you can get more for your dollar (at least if you are spending at the moderate level or above) by going to a local cabinet shop or builder. (Of course, it might be that there could be just a slight amount of bias there...)

1. 
   Phat_Bastard | Dec 09, 2000 05:20am | #3

   *Not unlike mr. mad dog, I am very proud of my own custom cabinets. That said, the best factory made units I've come by are made by "crown point." They have a good web site and real helpful literature if you send for it. They make a real quality, high-end, product and have several different looks to choose from.Good luck.and BeWell, PB

1. 
   Mike_Songstad | Dec 09, 2000 07:22am | #4

   *Philip- The best manufactured cabinets I've ever come across are made by Wood-Mode (made in PA, I think). The fit & finish on these are excellent. That said, I would agree with the others that custom built units may be the best way to go.Mike

1. 
   Jim_Walters | Dec 09, 2000 04:37pm | #5

   *Schrock's from Walnut Creek Ohio. I can match them on the building end, but when it comes to finishing they blow me and every other small timer to bits.

2. 
   FredB | Dec 09, 2000 11:15pm | #6

   *While there are many options I can tell you two brands to stay away from: Omega and Dynasty. They are both made by the same company. After I bought some of these and having customer service problems that amounted to them not caring at all I did what I should have done in the first place. I checked around. The typical answer was: "Gee, I could have told you..." Followed by a horror story.The dollar question for cabinets is: "How much money will the house bear?" A little, cheap house just can't bear the cost of custom cabinets come resale time. But, a larger, nicer house in a better neighborhood can support the cost of customs.If your house can support customs by all means buy them. You will get exactly what you want and they will pay for themselves at resale time.Never going to sell? I wish you well in your fantasy land. Everyone sells sooner or later.

2. 
   Philip_Berman | Dec 09, 2000 11:16pm | #7

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   What are the better brands of kitchen cabinets, in terms of construction quality and finish? What kind of experiences have you had with ordering, receiving the goods, quality control, etc. Thanks.