What Are RTA Cabinets?

Modern white kitchen with white shaker cabinets

Remodeling projects unlock a world of possibilities where cabinet designs are concerned. Whether you're a homeowner ready to revitalize your kitchen or a business owner looking to add a new type of cabinet to your product line, one option to consider is ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets. Read on if you are open to and interested in learning more about RTA cabinets!

What Are RTA Kitchen Cabinets?

In the world of kitchen cabinets, RTA means ready to assemble. RTA cabinets are delivered in parts with all the necessary hardware for assembly. They are convenient to set up, so homeowners and businesses alike can put them together with ease. RTA cabinet pieces are pre-cut into various shapes, allowing you to easily slot individual pieces into designated spaces — much like a jigsaw puzzle. 

Are RTA Cabinets Better Than Pre-Assembled Cabinets?

Pre-assembled cabinets come already built, while RTA cabinets come ready to be put together. Here are a few comparisons between the two:

  • Cost: Pre-assembled cabinets generally cost more than RTA cabinets. Plus, homeowners will likely need to pay more for the installation of pre-assembled cabinets than ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets that don't need professional installation. 
  • Installation: Most pre-assembled cabinets require a skilled cabinetmaker to install them, whereas RTA cabinets can be installed by someone less experienced. 
  • Shipping: You'll wait longer for your pre-assembled cabinets because they require more time and effort to assemble and don't come in flat boxes like RTA cabinets. 
  • Quality and aesthetics: Both cabinet types are available in high-quality designs and styles.

Depending on your desired outcome and budget requirements, RTA cabinets are good quality, affordable and stylish options that will last for years. 

Benefits of RTA Cabinets

Consider the following benefits of installing ready-to-assemble cabinets. 

Side view of a two door white shaker cabinet with glass doors

Less Prone to Shipping Damage

Since they are pre-built, laid flat and packed in boxes to be shipped, RTA cabinets are less vulnerable to dents and dings caused by shipping. Pre-assembled cabinets are more susceptible to damage during shipping. Additionally, it will likely cost less to ship and deliver RTA cabinets because they are not as large as pre-assembled cabinets. 

More Affordable Than Alternatives

Although RTA cabinets cost less to manufacture than other cabinets, such as pre-assembled and custom cabinets, they do not lack in quality. In addition to manufacturing savings, you can save on labor costs because you can assemble and install the cabinets yourself. 

The opportunity to purchase RTA cabinets online also saves you a trip to the showroom, although RTA cabinet dealers are always eager to meet customers in person to deliver a truly tailored experience. 

Easy to Assemble

One of the main advantages of RTA cabinets is that they come with easy-to-read instructions that make life easier from the moment of unboxing. Pre-drilled holes make it easy to attach doors, and you only need a few screws to secure the entire frame. Simple tools like brackets, screws, a screwdriver, a glue gun and glue are the essentials you'll need to get the job done. 

Made of Superior Quality Materials

You might think that they lack in quality because you have to assemble them yourself, but RTA cabinets are as durable as they come. You can choose from a selection of beautiful styles and add accessories to make them stand out. Just pick a style in your preferred color and enjoy a superbly crafted cabinet. 

A selection of intricate designs, dovetail construction and features like soft close doors is generally a good indication of high-quality products. In most cases, RTA cabinets are made of the same materials as pre-assembled cabinets, so their quality is the same. The only significant difference is the installation process. 

Things to Consider When Choosing RTA Cabinets

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing RTA cabinets for your kitchen or your business. Cabinets are a long-term investment for homeowners and must be taken seriously by businesses and franchisees, so you want to be absolutely sure of your purchase. Below are some aspects to consider.

Quality and Track Record of Provider

Who you buy cabinets from is as important as what you buy. A reputable, trustworthy kitchen cabinetry company should ideally have a few distinct characteristics. Look for these factors when searching for a kitchen cabinetry company: 

  • Exceptional quality
  • Variety of products
  • Industry experience
  • Online presence
  • Numerous stores
  • Excellent service
  • Shipping availability 
  • Effective warranty
  • Owned manufacturing plants 

PKB Cabinetry ticks all these boxes. Being in business since 1998 means we have established ourselves in the industry. We pride ourselves in having a good reputation due to our humble beginnings and commitment to consistently delivering high-quality products to our deserving customers.

With an extensive display of available products online, multiple stores across the states and nationwide shipping opportunities, we are not restricted in what we can provide. We stand by our products and offer a limited lifetime warranty, and we're so confident in our success that we are eager to offer franchise and dealer opportunities for anyone interested in joining the cabinetry business. 

Lead Times

While some companies promise fast turnaround and shipping times, it can vary depending on the size of the order. Generally, you could wait up to two weeks for your cabinets to be shipped — but some exceptional businesses can get products ready for shipping in just two to three days.

PKB Cabinetry has numerous manufacturing plants and distribution facilities across the United States, meaning we have bountiful stock available to be shipped within two days to any location in the country. If you have an urgent project deadline, these lead times are something you should consider when choosing the right cabinetry company.

Cost

For most, cost is one of the main influences when it comes to completing renovations or purchasing remodeling supplies to sell to customers. Whether you have a strict budget or one that gives you the freedom to innovate, you are probably looking for the best quality products at an affordable rate. At PKB Cabinetry, we manufacture our own ready-to-assemble cabinets, so we can offer our customers comparatively affordable prices. 

Partner With PKB Cabinetry Today

PKB Cabinetry has your best interests at heart, whether you're a purchasing customer or a prospective dealer or franchiser. We have the perfect business opportunities to help you boost profits and make a mark in this competitive industry. Shop our RTA cabinets, visit our website to find out more about becoming a dealer, or submit a franchising inquiry if this is something more suitable. We are ready to help you get started!

A modern kitchen with white shaker cabinets, brown countertops and an island