Consumer Information
Base cabinet, dovetail, face frame, and stile. These are words we use every day, but we realize that to most of our clients, they may seem like a foreign language. For us, working in the woodshop, these are simply terms we use to describe how we build those fantastic custom cabinets. Since they can feel a little overwhelming the first time around, we thought we would break down some of the most common phrases and explain what they mean. Product education is vital to us because we want you to be familiar with the how and why of our process.
These are the cabinets that sit on the floor. They form the foundation or base of the project and are where the countertop, sink, and main appliances go. The standard height is 35 to 36 inches, including the countertop, and approximately 24 inches deep, but these measurements can vary since we are a custom cabinet shop.
This term is more obvious since they are mounted to the wall. Sizes for these cabinets can vary depending on their purpose and the space they are placed in. For instance, those above the hood will differ in depth and width from those above the base cabinets.
A portion of the base cabinets will have a recessed area along the bottom, known as a toe kick. This gives your feet room when standing in front of the cabinets. It is considered an essential element of cabinet design, as it allows you to stand closer to the countertop. It is usually about 3 inches deep and 3.5 inches high.
Inset cabinetry features doors and drawers that fit neatly within the cabinet frame, creating minimal spacing between the cabinet components. The entire cabinet frame is visible, and hardware is required to open and close the doors. This is a popular door style for many of our clients.
These cabinets are the easiest to access because the cabinet frame is eliminated, resulting in a frameless design, unlike the inset. The edges of the top, bottom, and side panels form the front of the cabinet box. It is considered a more modern style and is also a popular option with homeowners.
This refers to a coating applied over the cabinet stain or paint that enhances or changes the color of the base coat. It is also a beautiful way to highlight intricate architectural details of cabinets, such as moldings or corners.
The horizontal pieces of a face frame or door frame are paired with stiles for a complete cabinet frame.
The vertical pieces of a face frame or door frame (in contrast to the “rails,” which are the horizontal members of the frame). They are combined with the rails to create a complete cabinet frame.
Joints that hold the sides of the drawer together with interlocking “tails” on one side and “pins” on the other are the origin of the dovetail term. The result is a strong joint that is highly resistant to being pulled apart. They are also considered a mark of high craftsmanship due to their durability for your cabinets.
This is the panel attached to the front of a drawer box. It is the visible front part of the drawer to which the handle is attached. On some cabinet drawers, the drawer face is the front part of the drawer box.
Of course, this means you cannot see the hinges, but they are placed inside the cabinet door. This option is an excellent choice as it gives the space a clean, flawless look and feel.
Being familiar with a few cabinet terms can help you during your design meeting and help you better understand the options available and what will work best for your particular style and needs. We love working with our clients to create a design that meets their vision, which is why we believe it is essential to take the time to go over every detail, including product education. We are more than just a custom cabinet company. We are family-owned, which means you will receive the same care we give to our loved ones. Contact us today, and let’s get started planning that project.
Kitchen style. Throughout the years, the kitchen has been the heart of the home, the place where delicious meals were cooked and served with love. It has also remained a place where memories are made, achievements are celebrated, and it invokes a warm, inviting atmosphere. One thing has changed, and that is my style.
Inset cabinets, because the doors are inside the frame, look like elegant furniture pieces, giving the space a luxurious feel. If you are looking for cabinets that will stand the test of time, inset cabinets are for you.
The kitchen island offers more than just a workspace when cooking dinner. It provides additional storage and even seating. An island is a versatile element in the kitchen that can adapt to almost any size, allowing you to maximize the use of your square footage.
Closets are usually a key selling point in any home, making a custom closet a valuable addition since buyers are looking for functional spaces in the house. Custom closets are not just a great space in your home, but are also an investment if you ever choose to sell.
Countertops are essential to any bathroom or kitchen design and deliver several great benefits to the homeowner. They have evolved to become more than just a work surface.
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Walker WoodworkingEssential Bathroom Renovation Questions
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