In Part I, we discussed 15 factors to be considered when selecting the right cabinet maker, and covered important factors, including: experience, reputation, workmanship, customization and design capabilities, materials and quality, production process and lead time, project management and communication, warranty and after-sales service, pricing and budget, references and portfolio, customer service and support, sustainability and environmental responsibility, accessibility and location, insurance and licensing, and compatibility and trust.

In Part II, we will discuss the remaining 15 points. Read on!

16 – Innovation and Technology

Look for a cabinet maker that uses the latest technology and innovation in their design, production, and materials. They should be able to offer new and exciting solutions for your project.

17 – Style and Aesthetics

Check the cabinet maker’s style and aesthetics. They should be able to offer a range of styles, from traditional to modern, and be able to match your preferences and home decor.

18 – Size and Capacity

The ideal company should be able to handle the scope of your project with ease. They should have the right machinery, space, and staff to handle the demands of your project.

19 – Safety and Compliance

Ensure their safety and compliance track record is up to par. Do they abide by safety regulations and standards? Have they implemented a comprehensive safety policy? And, do they equip their staff with the necessary training and safety equipment?

20 – Communication and Collaboration

Find a cabinet maker who prioritizes open communication and teamwork. They should be receptive to your ideas, feedback, and concerns, and work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. The cabinet maker should maintain transparency in their processes, and keep you informed of any changes or challenges that arise during the project.

21 – Customer Education and Consultation

A good cabinet maker will not only provide you with a quality product, but will also educate you on their craft. They should be able to walk you through the entire process, explaining the details and nuances of cabinet design, construction, and installation. They should also be able to provide consultation services, by suggesting design ideas that meet your needs and preferences.

22 – Customer Testimonials

Customer testimonials say a lot about a company. As a previous client, customers are only willing to write a positive review if they are satisfied. These testimonials can be found on the cabinet maker’s website on social media, and on review websites. Look for testimonials from customers who have had similar projects to yours. If the cabinet maker has received positive reviews and ratings, it is a good sign that they provide quality work and excellent customer service.

23 – Accessibility and Responsiveness

A cabinet maker should be easily accessible and highly responsive to your inquiries. They should assign a dedicated point of contact, who can promptly answer your questions and provide updates on your project’s progress. Additionally, they should be quick to address any issues or concerns you may have during the project.

24 – Attention to Detail

When it comes to crafting custom cabinets, the details are everything – and a top-notch cabinet maker knows this better than anyone. From initial design to final installation, a true cabinet maker pays attention to every single detail. This ensures that your cabinets are not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing.

25 – Collaboration with Other Contractors

A good cabinet maker works hard to collaborate with other contractors on your project. This ensures that your cabinets are integrated seamlessly into the overall design of your home. Experienced cabinet makers work collaboratively with your interior designer, architect, or contractor to ensure that the cabinets fit perfectly into the overall design.

26 – Social Responsibility

A good cabinet maker should be socially responsible. A socially responsible cabinet maker takes the environment and community seriously, and does their part to make a positive impact. They choose eco-friendly materials and techniques, make sure to recycle any waste materials, and even support local businesses.

27 – Installation and Clean up

Some cabinet makers offer installation services as part of their package, while others do not. Ask if installation is included in the quotes. If not, you will need to budget for the cost of hiring a professional installer, and discuss with them about liability, both safety and material damages. Some projects may involve other contractors, such as electricians or plumbers. If that is the case, specify in the contract who will be responsible for cleaning up, and disposing of any waste materials after each contractor has finished their work.

28 – Professionalism and Ethics

A good cabinet maker should be professional and ethical in their dealings with you. They should be transparent in their processes and pricing, provide clear timelines and estimates, and follow through on their promises. They should also be ethical in their practices, treating their staff and suppliers with respect and fairness.

29 – Creativity and Innovation

You need a cabinet maker who’s a master of creativity and innovation to deliver functional products. The right cabinet maker should be able to offer new and exciting solutions for your project, using the latest technology and materials. With a cabinet maker like that, you can rest assured that your cabinets will be more than just practical — they’ll be works of art!

30 – Local Presence and Community Involvement

A good cabinet maker should be locally present and involved in the community. Choosing the perfect cabinet maker for your project is more than just about their ability to create stunning cabinets, but it is a community involvement. Find about their passion, ask how their weekend was or what they plan to do in the coming weekend. You will learn about them from their answers. They should have a physical presence in the area (within 100km radius from your location), making it easy for you to visit their showroom or workshop. They should also be involved in community activities, supporting local charities and events to make the world a better place.

Conclusion

Well, congratulations on making it to the end of our ultimate guide on selecting the perfect cabinet maker! If you’re reading this part II conclusion, then you’re probably an expert by now on all things cabinet-related. You might even be able to craft your own cabinets!

Choosing a cabinet maker is a decision that can impact the aesthetics and functionality of your home or office, and it requires careful consideration. We believe that our two part series covered in Part I and Part II have enlightened you on choosing the right cabinet maker for your projects.

Seek out a cabinet maker who’s locally present, with a showroom or workshop you can visit in person whenever you want. And it’s a bonus if they’re involved in community activities, supporting local charities and events. When you work with a local cabinet maker, you’re not just getting great cabinets, you’re also supporting a vibrant, thriving community, too.

Avoid scams similar to what happened in Maple Ridge, BC, recently (video) by doing your due diligence. You can find a cabinet maker that you can trust, and who can bring your vision to life. With the right cabinet maker, you can have functional, stylish, affordable and durable cabinets that will enhance your home’s value and comfort for years to come.

Choosing the right cabinet maker may not be an easy task. Just remember to do your research, ask for references, and trust your instincts to find the perfect cabinet maker for your project. KH Cabinets is here to make your selection process easy.

KH Cabinets has over 5,000 sq. ft. of space at its manufacturing facility in Surrey, BC, Canada. Formerly known as “Canastar Kitchens”, KH Cabinets and Architectural Millwork, Inc. was rebranded in 2021 with a new management. We have more than 11 years of proven record of professional services in Metro Vancouver.

Over 90% of KH Cabinets’ business comes from either repeat customers (builders and renovators); or are referred to us by satisfied clients. Come and join our list of growing clients.

We, at KH Cabinets, are not here just to make money, rather we are here to build relationships. We pledge to donate a portion of our contract amount to a charity of your choice.

Hey, let us beautify your home and build your dream cabinet, and countertops!

All sounds good? Why not contact us, for a free, no obligation quote: Click here

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs:

Q13: What factors should I primarily consider to select the right cabinet maker?
A13: You should consider: experience, reputation, workmanship, customization capabilities, hardware, production process, project management, communication, pricing, portfolio, location of business, licensing, size and capacity of the production system, customer service, customer testimonials.

You should look for a cabinet maker who uses the latest technology and innovation, can offer a range of styles and aesthetics, has the right size and capacity, has a good safety and compliance track record, prioritizes communication and collaboration, provides customer education and consultation, has positive customer testimonials, is accessible and responsive, pays attention to detail, collaborates with other contractors, is socially responsible, offers installation and clean-up services, is professional and ethical, is creative and innovative, has a local presence and community involvement.

Q14: What is their production process, and how long will it take to complete a project?
A14: The cabinet maker should have some defined timeline to complete a project, and keep you updated on the progress, and communicate with you when there are any factors that could cause delays.

Q15: What is the safety record of the cabinet making company?
A15: Ask the cabinet if they had any safety issues in the past couple of years. Check government resources to verify their answers.

Q16: Does the cabinet maker educate its clients or seem to hide information?
A16: A genuine cabinet maker spends the time to educate you on all things cabinets. Ask every question in your mind during the first initial visit. All of your questions must have been answered to your satisfaction.

Q17: How can I find out if a cabinet maker is responsive and accessible?
A17: Before awarding your contract, find out if a cabinet maker is responsive and accessible by calling them. If you leave a voicemail, check how long it took them to get back to you.

Q18: Does the cabinet maker pay attention to details?
A18: A professional cabinet manufacturer pays attention to all details of the project at hand, starting from the initial visit, quote, fabrication, and installation. Check if their quotes are error free or not. The quote alone informs you if they are detail oriented or not.

Q19: How can a cabinet company perform their corporate social responsibility?
A19: It can use eco-friendly materials and techniques, recycle waste materials, support local and businesses, participate in community activities, and Support local charities and events.

Q20: Is the cabinet maker a professional company with good ethics?
A20: A professional cabinet maker deals with its clients, employees, and suppliers in a respectful manner. There will not be any yelling or swearing at all times. They are honest with pricing and deadlines, and keep their words.

Q21: Why is hiring a local cabinet maker important?
A21: Hiring locally makes it easier for both the cabinet maker and the client. If the cabinet maker is located nearby, a potential client can easily visit their showroom or workshop for firsthand information.

Q22: How do I know the cabinet maker I am hiring is creative ?
A22: Creativity varies in the cabinetry business. Ask to see their past work, online or on hard copy. Contact their references to verify. If they can not show the projects they worked on, chances are they are new to the industry.

Q23: What is their pricing structure, and how does it compare to other cabinet makers?
A23: Some companies require 50% deposit while others require a little more or less dollars, depending on the size of the project. Yet others, offer discounts for full upfront payment. All these details should be stipulated in a detailed estimate that breaks down the costs.

Q24: Can I install cabinets myself?
A24: It’s possible to install cabinets yourself if you have the necessary skills and tools. However, we recommend hiring a professional cabinet installer to ensure that the cabinets are installed correctly and safely.