Custom vs DIY cabinets: buying guide

09 January 2022

When considering DIY or custom cabinets, there are many factors to consider. IKEA and other flatpack cabinetry might have a cheaper price tag but you need to consider whether it is cost-effective in the long term. Follow our buying guide and renovate with confidence.

The advantages and disadvantages of DIY cabinets

DIY cabinets can be budget-friendly. While flatpack kitchens, bathrooms and laundry cabinets can save you money in labour, keep in mind that unless you consider yourself a home handy person, flatpacks can cause much frustration and take up your valuable time. If you are considering a DIY kitchen, bathroom or laundry, consider that you will need to do the following tasks:

  • measuring
  • ordering
  • delivering
  • putting together all the cabinets
  • installing all the cabinets

Consider the ‘extra’ costs associated with DIY cabinets. If you buy the flatpacks and then engage companies to measure, put together and install the cabinets, including ‘extras’ like a furniture kick around your kitchen island, then you can expect your costs to increase. The minute you start to change and/or customise the budget increases.

IKEA cabinets take a lot of time – both figuring out all the components that need to be ordered (since every item is a separate component) and assembling them all. Factoring in the cost for someone else to do this is an important consideration if you decide to do a partial DIY job.

The advantages and disadvantages of custom built in cabinets

Custom cabinets are generally more expensive than DIY cabinets. The value of time vs money needs to be weighed up here. If you are time-poor, then you will want to hire someone to take care of everything for you. There are many advantages of custom cabinets. From measuring and delivery to labour and installation, there is nothing you have to worry about.

The main advantages of custom cabinets include:

  • Personalised style. When you choose custom cabinets, your options are limitless. Check out some of these personalised door styles.
  • Tailored storage solutions. Some spaces have less storage solutions than they have room for. Custom cabinetry allows you to maximise your cabinets to suit your home, so no space is wasted.
  • Increased home value. Cabinets that are perfectly designed and optimised for your living spaces can add value to your investment. Here’s how to renovate your kitchen for profit.
  • Stress-free installation. At Craftsman Built on the Gold Coast, all our cabinets are made and ready to be installed. We have our own installers who do this all day long. Our professional crews are onsite to answer all your questions and tackle any issues quickly.

Discover the best custom built in cabinets solutions on the Gold Coast at Craftsman Built

Our team at Craftsman Built produce kitchen, bathroom and laundry cabinetry and joinery solutions of the highest quality. From the initial design process, to manufacture and installation, Ashley and his team will guide you through the entire process, minus the stress.

Are you building a home? Does your kitchen, bathroom or laundry need an update? If you live on the Gold Coast and are considering renovating your space, Craftsman Built has all the expertise, professional knowledge and design tips to give you an expert opinion. Browse our gallery here or give Ashley a call on 0413 028 331 to arrange a free onsite consultation. You can also fill out a quote form here.