There are always misconceptions in almost everything, and ready-to-assemble (RTA) kitchen cabinets are no exception. As it’s now expanding its place in the market, many people are paying attention to it.
That means they also conjure up assumptions, which would probably end once they tried using the items. Needless to say, you should never be a blind believer. Here, we’ll provide you with the most commonly misinterpreted facts about RTA kitchen cabinets.
“Cheap” Materials = “Cheap” Quality
Img source: nationalrtacabinets.com
Many buyers presume that RTA cabinets are less expensive because they are made from low-cost materials. This idea may be true many years ago, when manufacturers were primarily utilizing flimsy materials, such as particleboards.
Still and all, it is 2019 now, nearly 2024. Everything has changed, even in the RTA market. Gone are the days when inexpensive products are inferior in quality.
It is evident in Kitchen Cabinet Kings and other kitchen cabinet dealers and manufacturers now that produced first-grade cabinetry using premium materials, such as furniture-grade plywood and solid woods, resulting in their top-quality features.
Let’s make things clear, though. The reason why RTA cabinets and other furniture are less expensive because of two reasons. These products are shipped in flat boxes, so it takes up less space, which means the shipping fee would be less costly. Another is that you’ll take charge of the product’s assembly and installation, so you’ll end up saving money on labor charges.
Less Expensive = Less Sturdy
This misconception goes hand-in-hand with the previous myth. A few customers believe that it wouldn’t be as solidly built as other custom cabinets. They’ve thought it this way because the products would be put together and installed by inexpert buyers instead of the craftsmen or machines themselves.
In fact, the same professional techniques are utilized in building the RTA furniture. Take mitered door fronts and dovetail drawers as examples. Both ensure preciseness and sturdiness in the overall structure of a product. Additionally, many cabinets have a thickness of around 1.27 to 1.90 centimeters, which can already guarantee stability.
What is more, as the parts of an RTA item are disassembled when being shipped, there will be fewer chances that the cabinets would experience freight damage. The unit may be sturdier compared to pre-made ones, which are usually dinged up in transit.
Detrimental to your health
Img source: finekitchencabinet.com
Many news reports were reported about the existence of formaldehyde and other toxic compounds in many RTA furniture, especially those that were shipped overseas. Exposure to volatile organic chemicals (VOC), like formaldehyde, will result in eyes, nose, throat, and skin irritations, as well as headaches, nausea, lung damage, and cancer risks.
This was alarming a decade ago. Having said that, most of the governments had already taken action about this matter. Many are abiding CARB Phase 2 compliance instituted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This agency is well-known as the “clean air agency” as they’re aiming to decrease formaldehyde emissions and prevent airborne toxic contaminants from being inhaled by the mass.
Most of the RTA cabinets are now CABR2 certified. You would immediately know because you’ll see “CARB2 compliant”, “CARB cabinet,” or “complies with KCMA certified cabinet” logos in the box or item itself.
Experts are the only ones who can assemble and install well
One of the goals of RTA is to allow customers to do the furniture construction and place it in their house themselves, not the other way around. It’s just that it takes more time, understanding, and effort. Don’t worry. Every RTA product is delivered together with easy-to-understand instructions (mostly, unless you need someone to make you understand). Plus, specific tools are highlighted so everyone can do the job well.
Shipping takes forever
Img source: thertastore.com
True, it takes several weeks and months for other online merchants before they can deliver the products. Some online stores even have a very terrible customer service to the point that the customers would end up canceling their orders.
Even so, not all companies are like that. For instance, KitchenCabinetKings tend to deliver items between 7-21 days, not only for its RTA cabinets but also for its pre-assembled items. This store aimed to provide customers with fast delivery lead time and superior service. Hence, other stores take turnaround time and client assistance earnestly.
Takeaway
One thing is factual for sure—some people are into committing crimes. Due to identity thefts happening in the digital world nowadays, the concern of purchasing online as something unsafe is inevitable. It eventually affected the RTA market.
In spite of that, many companies are taking action to prevent this from happening. They have been using security software to protect their clients’ information. As the purchaser, you can also check the site whether it’s registered under Better Business Bureau or not. You have to run a background check and choose reputable online vendors wisely.
