Kitchen Cabinet and Vanity Makers in the GTA
Cabinetmaking has a long, rich history. Archeological evidence shows that 300,000 Neanderthals built wooden cabinets used to keep firewood safe from rain and food safe from animals. In the late Renaissance, the best cabinet makers were renowned as artists, building structures from rare woods, and decorating them with inlay, marquetry, carving, and gilding. By the 18th century, furniture makers like Hepplewhite and Chippendale were writing books that popularized their cabinetry styles. During the industrial revolution, the development of new saws and drills permitted cabinet makers to produce cabinets more quickly, making them more affordable. And while today’s technology offers great efficiency and precision to cabinet makers, the best of these craftsmen combine those attributes with attention to detail and an artistic eye. If you are looking for kitchen cabinet makers or vanity makers in the GTA, you’ll want to find a company that follows in the tradition of great cabinet makers, but offers the most modern materials and the latest in design trends.
Finding the Right Company
There are certain characteristics that are shared by quality cabinet makers. If you are searching for someone to create or renovate kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities, please consider:
- Licensing and Insurance. Professional cabinet makers are licensed and carry full insurance, including liability insurance. Don’t proceed unless the contractor you’re considering has both of these in place.
- Experience and Reputation. Don’t work with an unknown entity. Choose a cabinet maker that has had a community presence in the GTA for several years and that has a good reputation. Look for online reviews or ask for references from a recent customer.
- Integrated Process. You’ll want to find a "one-stop” company that has an in-house manufacturing facility with state-of-the-art equipment. Having integrated design and manufacturing maximizes efficiency and it provides a more accurate timeline and more accountability. Some cabinet makers also offer installation services.
- Choice. Visit the company’s showroom and see what materials are available. Does the company offer a range of door styles and colours? Are they using Thermafoil technology? Is there a variety of quality hardware available? Are they knowledgeable about the latest design trends? Take the tour and ask staff any questions you may have.
- Free Estimate. Better companies offer a no-obligation estimate after an initial meeting with a design consultant.
- Communication. In that initial meeting, make sure that the company places a high value on collaboration and communication. You want someone who will work with you to refine your ideas and make them possible for your budget and for your particular home.
- Warranty. Good companies offer a warranty on their work and materials. Don’t proceed without one.
Common Mistakes
The most common errors that homeowners make have to do with budget. Often, the mistake is opting for the lowest estimate. Beware! The cheapest option may involve shoddy materials or substandard carpentry and that can require replacing or redoing long before good work will. Another common pitfall for homeowners is failing to budget for contingencies. A good contractor is obligated to bring your house up to code if problems are found with wiring or mold is found behind a wall. Planning and budgeting properly will help to ensure that your reno goes smoothly. An experienced contractor will / can usually anticipate potential problems before they arise. Use someone with a reputation to adhere to that you are comfortable with and trust.
Visit a kitchen cabinet and vanity maker showroom in the GTA today and learn more about the art of cabinet making!