RTA Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re in the market for new kitchen cabinets, you may have encountered the term RTA cabinets. RTA stands for Ready-to-Assemble, and as the name suggests, these cabinets are designed to be easily assembled by the customer without needing professional installation. Here, we will explore the benefits of RTA cabinets, how to choose them, and what factors to consider when deciding.

1. What are RTA Cabinets?

RTA cabinets are kitchen cabinets that come in a flat pack, ready for assembly. They are pre-manufactured and pre-cut to size, and all the necessary hardware and instructions are included in the package. RTA cabinets are typically made from wood, MDF, or plywood and come in various finishes and styles.

2. Benefits of RTA Cabinets

There are many benefits to choosing RTA cabinets over custom or pre-assembled cabinets. Here are 5 of the most notable advantages:

Affordability: RTA cabinets are often more affordable than custom cabinets, making them a great option for homeowners on a budget.

Easy Assembly: RTA cabinets come with all the necessary hardware and instructions, making them easy to assemble, even for those without experience in cabinet installation.

Customizable: RTA cabinets come in various styles, colors, and finishes, allowing you to create a custom look for your kitchen without the high price tag of custom cabinets.

Quick Delivery: Because RTA cabinets are pre-manufactured and ready to ship, they can be delivered quickly, sometimes within just a few days.

High-quality: RTA cabinets are made from high-quality materials and constructed to meet or exceed industry standards. They are durable and built to last, making them a great investment for homeowners.

3. How to Choose RTA Cabinets

When choosing RTA cabinets for your kitchen, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important:

(1) Style

RTA cabinets have several styles, each with a unique look and feel. Here are some popular styles of RTA cabinets:

Shaker: Shaker-style cabinets are characterized by simple, clean lines and minimal ornamentation. They are a popular choice for both traditional and modern kitchens.

Raised Panel: Raised panel cabinets have a raised panel in the center of the cabinet door, giving them a more ornate look than shaker-style cabinets. They are a popular choice for traditional kitchens.

Flat Panel: Flat panel cabinets have a flat, smooth center panel and are often used in modern or contemporary kitchens.

Inset: Inset cabinets are similar to shaker-style cabinets but have the door inside the cabinet frame rather than on top of it. They are a popular choice for traditional or classic kitchens.

(2) Color

RTA cabinets come in various colors, from classic neutrals to bold and bright hues. When choosing a color for your cabinets, consider the overall style of your kitchen and the color of your countertops and backsplash. Some popular cabinet colors include:

White: White is a popular choice for RTA cabinets as it creates a clean and bright look, making it perfect for modern and contemporary styles. Additionally, white cabinets reflect light, making a room more open and spacious.

Espresso: Espresso cabinets are a popular choice for homeowners who want to add depth and richness to their kitchen or bathroom. They complement various decor styles, including traditional, contemporary, and modern. Additionally, espresso cabinets are durable and easy to maintain.

Gray: Gray cabinets are versatile and work well with various design styles. They can be used in modern and traditional kitchens and bathrooms, and they pair well with various countertop materials. Additionally, gray cabinets are a great choice for those who want to create a neutral palette.

Black: Black cabinets are a bold choice that can add drama and sophistication to a kitchen or bathroom. They pair well with light-colored countertops and backsplashes, creating a stunning contrast with white walls.

Natural Wood: Natural wood cabinets are a classic choice that never goes out of style. They add warmth and texture to a room, and they complement a variety of decor styles. Additionally, natural wood cabinets can be stained in various colors to match your design aesthetic.

Cherry: Cherry cabinets are a luxurious choice that adds elegance to a room. They are a great choice for traditional kitchens and bathrooms and can be paired with various countertop materials. Additionally, cherry cabinets are durable and long-lasting.

Maple: Maple cabinets are a popular choice for those who want a light-colored wood cabinet. They create a clean and bright look in a room and pair well with various countertop materials. Additionally, maple cabinets are easy to maintain and can be stained in various colors.

Blue: Blue cabinets are a fun and unexpected choice that adds color to a room. They work well in both modern and traditional kitchens and bathrooms, and they pair well with a variety of countertop materials. Additionally, blue cabinets are a great choice for creating a unique and personalized space.

(3) Quality

When choosing RTA cabinets, it’s important to consider the materials’ quality. Here are some factors to consider:

a. Cabinet Material

Solid Wood: Solid wood RTA cabinets are popular for their timeless beauty and durability. The natural wood grain provides a warm and inviting look to any kitchen or bathroom. They can be painted or stained to match any decor style, making them versatile. Solid wood RTA cabinets are sturdy and can withstand heavy use, making them a great investment in your home.

Plywood: Plywood RTA cabinets are made from thin layers of wood veneer glued together to create a strong and stable sheet. Plywood is more durable and moisture-resistant than particleboard, making it a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms. It’s also less likely to warp or crack over time and less expensive than solid wood.

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): MDF RTA cabinets are made from wood fibers that have been compressed and bonded together with resin. This material is denser than particleboard and more durable than plywood. MDF can be painted or laminated to look like wood, and it’s a more affordable option than solid wood.

Particleboard: Particleboard RTA cabinets are made from wood chips and resin that are compressed and bonded together. This material is less expensive than other options, making it a budget-friendly choice. The particleboard is also strong enough for kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

Thermofoil: Thermofoil RTA cabinets are made from medium-density fiberboard covered with a vinyl layer. This material is easy to clean and maintain and resistant to moisture and stains. Thermofoil is also less expensive than other materials, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Metal: Metal RTA cabinets are a sleek and modern option for those who want an industrial look in their kitchen or bathroom. Metal cabinets are very durable and resistant to moisture and stains. They are also easy to clean and maintain. However, metal cabinets can be more expensive than other options and may not be suitable for every decor style.

b. Door Finish

The finish on your RTA cabinet doors can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Here are some of the most common finishes:

Solid Wood Finish: This is a popular and classic choice for cabinet doors. The natural grain patterns of wood add a warm and cozy feel to any kitchen. The most common woods used in cabinet doors are maple, oak, and cherry. Pros: Durable, long-lasting, and can be refinished if needed. Cons: Expensive, may require regular maintenance, and may warp or crack over time.

Laminate Finish: This synthetic material is made to look like wood or other materials. Laminate is a popular choice for RTA cabinets because it is affordable and easy to maintain. Pros: Affordable, easy to clean, and comes in various colors and styles. Cons: Not as durable as solid wood, can peel or chip over time, and may not look as natural as wood.

Thermofoil Finish: This vinyl film is applied to a substrate (usually MDF or particleboard) using heat and pressure. Thermofoil is a popular choice for RTA cabinets because it is affordable and easy to clean. Pros: Affordable, easy to clean, and comes in various colors and styles. Cons: Not as durable as solid wood, can peel or chip over time, and may not look as natural as wood.

Painted Finish: Painted cabinet doors are a great way to add color and personality to your kitchen. They are usually made from solid wood or MDF. Pros: Comes in various colors and styles, is easy to maintain, and can be refinished if needed. Cons: It may show scratches or chips more easily than other finishes, requiring touch-ups over time.

Stained Finish: This is a popular choice for solid wood cabinet doors. Stain is a type of finish that penetrates the wood grain to give it color and protect it from damage. Pros: Adds depth and richness to the wood grain, is easy to maintain, and can be refinished. Cons: It may require regular maintenance and may not be as durable as painted or laminated finishes.

c. hardware

The hardware you choose for your RTA cabinets can also greatly impact the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Here are some factors to consider:

Knobs vs. Pulls: Do you prefer knobs or pulls for your cabinet hardware? Knobs are a more traditional choice, while pulls are a more modern option.

Material: Cabinet hardware can be made from various materials, including metal, glass, and ceramic. Consider the overall style of your kitchen when choosing the material for your hardware.

Finish: The finish on your cabinet hardware should coordinate with the finish on your doors. Popular finishes include brushed nickel, chrome, and oil-rubbed bronze.

Here are some types of cabinet pulls/handles for RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) cabinets, along with their advantages:

Bar Pulls: Bar pulls are long, thin handles commonly used for modern or contemporary-style cabinets. They are often made of metal, such as stainless steel, and come in various sizes. Advantages include:

• Easy to grip and pull
• Modern and sleek appearance
• Available in different sizes to accommodate different cabinet sizes
• Durable and long-lasting

Cup Pulls: Cup pulls are handles shaped like a cup or half-moon and are commonly used for traditional or vintage-style cabinets. They are often made of metal, such as brass or bronze, and come in various sizes. Advantages include:

• Easy to grip and pull
• The classic and timeless appearance
• It can be matched to other hardware finishes, such as hinges or knobs
• Durable and long-lasting

Finger Pulls: Finger pulls are small, discreet handles often used for minimalist or modern-style cabinets. They are typically mounted flush with the cabinet surface and provide a discreet way to open the cabinet. Advantages include:

• Minimalist and streamlined appearance
• Space-saving, as they do not protrude from the cabinet surface
• Easy to install and use
• It can be matched to other hardware finishes, such as hinges or knobs

Ring pulls are handles shaped like rings and are often used for antique or vintage-style cabinets. They are typically made of metal, such as brass or bronze, and come in various sizes. Advantages include:

• Easy to grip and pull
• Classic and elegant appearance
• It can be matched to other hardware finishes, such as hinges or knobs
• Durable and long-lasting

Choosing the right cabinet pulls/handles for your RTA cabinets can greatly enhance their appearance and functionality. Consider the style of your cabinets and the overall design of your space when selecting hardware options.

In conclusion, when choosing RTA cabinets, it’s important to consider your cabinets’ style, color, quality, and hardware. By taking the time to research your options and choose the right cabinets for your kitchen, you can create a beautiful and functional space that you’ll love for years to come.