Thinking about giving your kitchen a fresh new look? You're not alone! Many homeowners dream of having a beautiful and functional kitchen where they can cook up tasty meals and make memories. You don’t have to be into entertaining or having tons of guests to want the best for your kitchen — beauty, function, and organization are just as important for enjoying your kitchen alone or with a small family.
Why the makeover? Maybe the existing kitchen is old and just too far gone to fix without a complete remodel, or maybe you’re just tired of it. Maybe everything is in the wrong place and it doesn’t fit how you live and work. Or maybe you want to make an investment in your home, building equity by adding value with a remodel. Maybe you want to flip the house and make sure you create as great a space as possible for whoever moves in!
These are just some of the possible reasons behind your decision, but sometimes, the thought of how much it might cost to remodel your kitchen can be a little scary. The good news is that you don't have to spend a ton of money to get the kitchen you've always wanted. There are clever ways to save money and still end up with a space you'll love.
In this article, I’ll discuss some smart ways to save money on your kitchen makeover — especially how ready-to-assemble, or RTA cabinets, can be a game-changer for keeping your budget in check.
Why Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets Are Your New Best Friend
First off, what makes cabinets such a big deal? Cabinets are a huge part of a kitchen in the sense that they’re a prominent part of the design, as well as because of how strongly they affect the storage and work functionality of your kitchen. The look of the cabinets will change the entire mood of the room, and their durability and layout will affect everything about how much you can put in them and where. Functionality-wise, cabinets are just as important as your appliances, and appearance-wise, they have the effect they do because they cover so much of the room. That’s why you have to be careful when you choose your cabinets.
When you start looking at new cabinets for your kitchen, you'll see lots of different options. Some come already put together, and others you assemble yourself. These assemble-it-yourself ones are the RTA cabinets, and they offer some great advantages, especially when you're watching your spending.
What Exactly Are RTA Cabinets?
Imagine getting all the pieces of your new cabinets neatly packed in flat boxes. That's basically what RTA cabinets are. They come with all the parts you need — the sides, top, bottom, doors, drawers, hinges, drawer slides, etc. — and you put them together yourself using simple instructions. The only things that aren’t included are certain hardware like handles (there are so many hundreds of designs available it’s just better for them to be sold separately), the tools you’ll use, and consumables like glue and brads. It’s not exactly like putting together a puzzle or a LEGO set but you’ll have all the pieces and clear instructions to follow.
The Big Savings of Choosing RTA
So, why are RTA cabinets easier on your wallet? A big part of the cost of pre-assembled cabinets is the labor involved in putting them together. With RTA cabinets, you're doing that work yourself, which means you save on those labor costs. Plus, because they ship flat, it costs less to transport them and they’re much less likely to get damaged in transit and need replacement. These savings can really add up, leaving you with more money for other parts of your kitchen makeover, like that fancy designer faucet you've been eyeing or some stylish marble countertops.
And if you’re worried that RTA cabinets are going to look cheap, no way. It’s all in the quality of the materials, and remember that these are the same cabinets you can also buy pre-assembled, and you wouldn’t even be considering those if they didn’t look good. The only difference is how competently the cabinets are assembled, and you’ll do fine as long as you have patience and the ability to follow directions. It’s relatively easy to get professional-looking results and nobody is going to be able to look at your cabinets and judge that they were a DIY project (although you’ll probably want to proudly tell them)!
Don't Worry, They're Not Hard to Put Together
Despite all my reassurances, you might be thinking that it sounds complicated to put cabinets together. And it's true, it might take a little time and effort. But most RTA cabinets are designed to be pretty straightforward to assemble. They usually come with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware except for the few exceptions I already listed. You'll need some basic tools (which you can usually rent rather than have to buy), but you don't have to be a professional carpenter to get the job done. Many people find it a satisfying project, and knowing you built your own kitchen cabinets can be pretty satisfying!
Picking the Right Look for Your Kitchen Without Spending a Fortune
Once you've decided that RTA cabinets are the way to go for saving money, the next step is thinking about what you want your kitchen to look like. You want something that looks good now and will still look good years down the road, right? Even if you’re not going to be in the kitchen yourself all the time, it’s best to choose a design with staying power so it won’t go out of style in a few years. If you’re planning to sell the house, this is even more important.
Why Shaker Cabinets Always Look Good
When it comes to kitchen styles that stand the test of time, Shaker cabinets are a fantastic choice. They have a simple, clean design with a flat center panel and a basic frame. This classic look is so versatile that it fits in with pretty much any home style, whether you like things contemporary, traditional, or somewhere in between. Because they're not overly trendy, you don't have to worry about them looking outdated in a few years. Plus, their simplicity means they often cost a bit less than more ornate styles (which is great for your budget) and are a lot easier to keep clean than fancier cabinets (which is great for your hands).
The timeless appeal of Shaker cabinetry is why we focus on them at RTA Kitchen Cabinets Online — our collection includes both purist Shaker designs and Shaker-inspired designs that are a bit fancier than the Shakers likely would have considered necessary, but without being over the top. It’s not just the appearance, but also the construction methods that make Shaker cabinets last so well, so we use only the most time-tested carpentry techniques without cutting any corners.
Choosing the Right Cabinet Materials
The material your cabinets are made from is a big deal. You want something that not only looks good but will also hold up to daily use in a busy kitchen. Think about all the opening and closing of doors, the spills, and the general wear and tear. The kitchen is a functional room where you can’t always be gentle. Choosing the right materials will make sure your investment lasts.
The best cabinets are made from a combination of materials, with the doors and drawer fronts (basically the parts you see) being made of solid hardwood, and the cabinet box and shelves (the inner structure that you don’t see much of) made from tough plywood. This combination offers the best balance of beauty and durability.
Hardwood for Cabinet Doors
Hardwood is very strong and durable, and while several types of wood fall into that category, maple is the best hardwood for cabinets. It can handle a lot of use without getting easily scratched or dented. Plus, maple has a beautiful, smooth grain, which works equally well whether you want to use a natural finish or paint it with a solid color. Natural finishes will show plenty of unique wood grain features while paints won’t be disrupted by a deep texture. Maple is a classic choice that adds a touch of quality to any kitchen.
Plywood for Cabinet Box Construction
Plywood is made by layering thin sheets of wood and gluing them together. This makes it incredibly strong and resistant to warping or twisting, which can happen with some other materials over time. Plywood also keeps the strength of the wood that’s used to make it, so as you might expect, maple plywood is extremely tough and excellent for cabinet construction. The cabinet box has to support the weight not only of the cabinets themselves, but of everything you put inside, and high-quality maple plywood is up to the job.
Our pre-assembled and RTA cabinets at RTA Kitchen Cabinets Online are made with solid maple fronts and plywood boxes to ensure this combination of beauty and long-lasting durability.
RTA Cabinet Tips for Your Stunning (and Affordable) Kitchen Remodel
Let’s say you're on board with the idea of affordable RTA cabinets in a timeless Shaker style made from sturdy materials. You know what you want, so how do you make this happen?
Planning Your Dream Kitchen Layout
Before you order any cabinets, take some time to think about how you want your new kitchen to be laid out. Consider how you use your kitchen now and what you'd like to change. Do you need more counter space? Would a different arrangement of appliances make things easier? If there’s anything you dislike about your kitchen, this is your best chance to change it; you don’t have to copy the old layout with your new one.
The only real restrictions to kitchen layout are the size of the room and the location of electric and other appliance hookups. Measure your kitchen carefully and sketch out a few different layout ideas. Think about where your sink, stove, and refrigerator will go, and how your cabinets will fit around them. We have a guide to kitchen layouts you can check out, as well as a detailed guide on how to measure and design your kitchen.
Ordering Your RTA Cabinets
Once you know what your layout will be and have a list of the cabinets you’ll need, it’s time to order your RTA cabinets! We hope you’ll choose to shop with us at RTA Kitchen Cabinets Online. We have a wide selection of the cabinets we recommend in this article and we’re ready to help you find what you’re looking for. If you want to know more about what makes us your best choice, read this quick article about the Online Cabinets Direct Advantage. More information is also available on our page How Our RTA Kitchen Cabinets Differ From the Competition. You’re also invited to contact us with any questions or to get additional help from us.
Assembling and Installing Your Cabinets, Step by Step
When your RTA cabinet kits arrive, take a deep breath — you’ve got this! Read our Cabinet Guidelines for Assembly carefully before you start, and check out our recent article about How to Assemble and Install RTA Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro. Take it one step at a time and remember to double-check the instructions if you’re unsure about something. There are also tons of helpful videos online that can walk you through the assembly process.
With your cabinets assembled, the next step is installation. This might seem a bit daunting, but with careful planning and the right tools, you can do it yourself. If you're not comfortable with this part, you can always hire a handyman to help with the installation, but doing it yourself can save you even more money.
Other Ways to Keep Your Kitchen Remodel Costs Down
Besides choosing RTA cabinets, there are other smart ways to save money on your kitchen remodel without sacrificing style or functionality.
Smart Choices for Countertops
Countertops can be a big expense, but there are more budget-friendly options than high-end natural stone. Laminate countertops have come a long way in terms of looks and durability, and they offer a wide variety of styles and colors at a lower cost. Butcher block countertops made from wood can also be an affordable and warm addition to your kitchen.
Finding Budget-Friendly Flooring
New flooring can really transform a kitchen, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Vinyl plank flooring is a great option that is both durable and relatively inexpensive. It comes in many different styles that mimic the look of wood or tile. Linoleum is another budget-friendly and durable choice that's available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Saving Money on Appliances and Fixtures
Appliances can be a major part of a kitchen remodel cost. Consider keeping your existing appliances if they are still in good working order. If you do need new ones, look for sales and consider buying models that have the features you need without all the extra bells and whistles. For faucets and light fixtures, shop around at different stores and online to find good deals.
Consider DIY Painting and Backsplash
Painting the walls yourself is a simple way to save money and personalize your kitchen. A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference! For the backsplash, consider using affordable tiles or even paint techniques that mimic the look of tile. There are many DIY tutorials online that can guide you through these projects.
Don’t Skimp on Quality
No matter which kitchen element you’re thinking about, keep quality in mind. Kitchens see a lot of rough use, and even the out-of-the-way places are susceptible to exposure to grease, heat, moisture, and other hazards. Trying to cut costs by using cheap materials will cost you more in the long run, but if you pay attention to quality and longevity, your kitchen might not need anything replaced for decades.
Making Your New Kitchen Shine
Once the big parts of your remodel are done, it's time for the finishing touches that will really make your new kitchen feel like home.
Simple Decor Ideas That Won't Break the Bank
You don't need to spend a lot on decor to make your kitchen look great. Think about adding some open shelving to display your favorite dishes or cookbooks. Use plants to bring some life and color into the space. Simple things like new curtains or a colorful rug can also make a big impact without costing much.
The Importance of Good Lighting
Good lighting is essential in a kitchen, both for function and for creating a nice atmosphere. Consider adding under-cabinet lighting to brighten up your countertops. A stylish pendant light over the kitchen island or dining area can also add a focal point. Shop around for affordable lighting options that fit your style.
Keeping Your Kitchen Organized
One of the best ways to make your kitchen feel new and improved is to get organized. Invest in some affordable storage solutions like drawer dividers, shelf organizers, and containers. A well-organized kitchen not only looks better but also makes cooking and finding things much easier.
Your Dream Kitchen Is More Affordable Than You Think
Remodeling your kitchen can feel like a big project, but it doesn't have to be a budget-busting one. By making smart choices, like opting for ready-to-assemble Shaker cabinets made from durable materials like solid maple and plywood from RTA Kitchen Cabinets Online, you can save a significant amount of money. Combine this with other cost-effective strategies for countertops, flooring, appliances, and DIY projects, and you can achieve the beautiful and functional kitchen you've always wanted without emptying your wallet. So go ahead, start planning your affordable kitchen makeover — your dream kitchen is within reach!
