Frequently Asked Questions

Cabinet Trends uses HDF (high-density fiberboard) textured melamine.
Textured melamine is made by fusing a decorative paper layer with a resin-saturated coating onto a durable engineered wood core, such as HDF (high-density fiberboard).
This process creates a surface that mimics the look and texture of real wood while offering excellent resistance to scratches, moisture, and everyday wear.
The result is a stylish, low-maintenance material that blends modern design with long-lasting durability—ideal for cabinets in kitchens, garages, offices, and commercial spaces.
RTA stands for Ready-to-Assemble, meaning the cabinets are shipped in parts and need to be assembled on-site.
Framed cabinets have a front frame for added stability, while frameless cabinets, also known as European-style, offer more accessible storage.
Inset cabinets have doors and drawers that fit inside the cabinet frame openings, creating a flush, custom look.
A toe kick provides space for your feet when standing close to the countertop, enhancing comfort and ergonomics.
The face frame is the front frame of the cabinet box, providing structure and support for the doors and drawers.
The carcass is the main body of the cabinet, excluding the doors, drawers, and hardware.
Soft-close drawer slides use hydraulic dampers to gently close drawers, preventing slamming.
Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, have no front frame, offering a sleek look and more storage space.

Our cabinets are made with HDF rather than MDF.
HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) and MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) are both engineered wood products made from wood fibers, resin, and wax—pressed into panels.
- HDF is denser, stronger, and harder than MDF. It's typically used in high-traffic areas or where more durability is needed (like cabinet back panels or flooring underlayment).
- MDF is slightly softer and more flexible, making it easier to machine or shape. It's commonly used for cabinet doors, panels, and furniture parts.
Lacquer is a durable, glossy finish, while laminate is a synthetic coating providing a smooth, easy-to-clean surface.
Melamine is ideal for cabinets because it combines durability with low maintenance. Its hard, resin-coated surface is scratch-resistant, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and high-use areas.
Unlike painted or raw wood surfaces, melamine won’t chip, stain, or warp easily—offering long-lasting performance with minimal upkeep.

Soft-close hinges prevent slamming, reduce wear and tear, and provide a quieter kitchen environment.
Consider style, finish, and functionality, ensuring it complements the cabinet design.
Use dividers, pull-out shelves, and labeled bins to keep items accessible and organized.
Full overlay doors cover the entire cabinet frame, offering a seamless, modern look and maximizing storage space.
While not necessary for melamine cabinets, liners can offer a few added benefits:
- Extra grip to prevent items from sliding, especially glassware or delicate items
- Sound dampening to reduce noise when placing items in drawers or shelves
- Added protection against spills, crumbs, or heavy items
- Custom styling if you want to add a pop of color or pattern to your cabinet interiors
Liners are a personal preference, but they can be a helpful addition depending on how you use your space.
Use the adjustment screws on the drawer slides to align and level the drawers.

Measure the height, width, and depth of the space, including the location of doors, windows, and appliances.
Secure the cabinets to the wall studs, ensure they are level, and then attach them to each other.
Use a level and shims to adjust the height until the cabinets are perfectly aligned.
Common tools include a level, drill, screws, clamps, tape measure, and a stud finder.
Secure cabinets to wall studs with screws long enough to penetrate the stud by at least 1.5 inches.
Attach hinges to the doors and then mount them to the cabinet frames, adjusting for alignment.
Mount wall cabinets to the studs, ensuring they are level and aligned with base cabinets.
Use clamps and screws to attach cabinets to each other, ensuring they are aligned and level.
Measure, cut, and attach the molding to the top of the cabinets, ensuring a seamless fit.
Mount lights under the cabinets, route the wiring, and connect to a power source or outlet.
Measure and mark the desired location, then drill holes and attach the hardware with screws.

Consider the overall kitchen design, personal preferences, and functional needs when selecting a cabinet style.

Yes, custom and semi-custom options allow for various modifications in size, style, and features.
Options include painting, refacing, replacing hardware, or adding new doors and drawer fronts.
Refacing involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts and applying a new veneer to the cabinet boxes.
Add pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, vertical dividers, and additional drawers.
Use edge banding or trim to cover exposed plywood edges for a polished look.
Use a touch-up kit matching the cabinet finish or a wax stick for minor scratches.

Base cabinets are typically 24 inches deep and 34.5 inches high. Wall cabinets are usually 12 inches deep
Custom cabinets usually take 6-12 weeks to manufacture and deliver.
Custom cabinets are more expensive due to their tailored design and higher-quality materials, while stock cabinets are more affordable.

Full extension slides allow drawers to open completely, providing easy access to the entire drawer.
Options include lazy Susans, corner drawers, and angled cabinets to maximize space.
Frameless cabinets offer more accessible storage and a sleek, modern look.
Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew.