What Are RTA Cabinets: A Guide

When remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, choosing the right cabinets can make a big difference in both appearance and cost. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option or want to cut down on labor costs, ready-to-assemble cabinets (RTA) could be just what you need. These cabinets are a popular choice for homeowners who want both affordability and style. In this guide, we'll explain what RTA cabinets are, how they work, and why they could be the best option for your home.

What Are RTA Cabinets?

RTA cabinets stand for "Ready to Assemble" cabinets. These are cabinets that come flat-packed in boxes and include everything you need to build them yourself—no extra assembly is required from professionals. The parts include cabinet boxes, doors, drawer fronts, hardware, and clear instructions. While it might sound like a lot of work, this option saves you money and allows you to customize your cabinets in ways that fit your home perfectly.

Types of RTA Cabinets

When shopping for RTA kitchen cabinets, you’ll find a variety of options. Here are some of the most common types:

  1. Base Cabinets: These are the cabinets that sit on the floor and are used for storage under countertops. They’re essential in any kitchen or bathroom.
  1. Wall Cabinets: These cabinets hang on the wall above counters and are perfect for storing dishes, glasses, or even pantry items.
  1. Tall Cabinets: Often used for larger storage needs, like pantries or broom closets, these cabinets are designed for vertical storage.

Each of these types of RTA cabinets can be customized to fit your space, with different sizes and configurations available.

Materials Used in RTA Cabinets

RTA cabinets are made from different materials, each offering its own set of benefits:

  • Solid Wood is a traditional material for high-quality cabinets. It’s strong, durable, and provides a natural, luxurious look. Many RTA kitchen cabinets made from solid wood can look just as good as custom cabinets but at a fraction of the price.
  • MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is an affordable, smooth material used in RTA cabinets, but it has some downsides. It's more likely to get damaged by moisture, dents, or scratches, and it's heavier than other materials, which can make it harder to assemble. MDF can also release harmful chemicals and doesn’t have the natural look or flexibility of solid wood. While it’s great for painted finishes and budget-friendly projects, it's not ideal for high-traffic areas or places with a lot of moisture.

Both materials can be used to create beautiful cabinets, but if you want something that lasts for years, solid wood might be the better option.

Why Choose RTA Cabinets?

Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets are a popular choice for homeowners because they offer many benefits. Here's why you might want to consider them for your next kitchen or bathroom project:

Lower Cost

One of the main reasons people choose RTA cabinets is the cost savings. Since you assemble the cabinets yourself, you avoid expensive labor costs. This makes RTA cabinets an affordable way to get high-quality cabinets without spending too much.

Variety of Styles, Colors, and Finishes

RTA cabinets come in a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes, so you can easily find a design that fits your home. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look or something more traditional, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Easy to Assemble

Even though you'll put the cabinets together yourself, most RTA cabinets are simple to assemble. The pieces are designed to fit together easily, and the clear instructions make the process straightforward. With a few basic tools and a little patience, you can have your cabinets set up in no time.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing RTA Cabinets

When you're ready to buy ready-to-assemble RTA cabinets, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Your Budget: If you're trying to save money, RTA cabinets are a more affordable option. However, don’t compromise on quality. Look for quality RTA cabinets that will last and function well.
  • Your Skills: Be honest with yourself about your ability to assemble the cabinets. If you don’t think you’re up for the job, you might want to consider pre-assembled cabinets. But if you enjoy DIY projects, then RTA cabinets can be a great option.
  • Space and Style: Consider the space you’re working with and the style that will complement your home. The great thing about ready-to-assemble RTA cabinets is the ability to customize them to fit your needs. Whether you need a base cabinet or tall cabinets for extra storage, you can find the right fit.

Conclusion

Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets are a great choice for homeowners who want to save money while still getting stylish and functional cabinets. They come in many styles, colors, and finishes, and whether you're updating your space or starting from scratch, RTA cabinets can make a big difference. While assembling them takes some time, the savings and satisfaction of a DIY project make it worth it. If you're looking for an affordable, customizable option for your kitchen or bathroom, RTA cabinets are a perfect fit!

Ready To Upgrade Your Space?

Contact J&K Cabinetry for a consultation and explore our selection of modern RTA kitchen cabinets. While we only sell to businesses, we offer expert design services to help homeowners. We can also connect you with a trusted retail partner who can give you a quote and assist with your purchase. Our goal is to help you find the perfect cabinets and ensure your kitchen project runs smoothly.