Kitchen Cabinets on a Shoestring Budget
by Charity Shumway

You might not have a big budget for your kitchen, but you still have big dreams. Getting a bargain on cabinets can help make those dreams come true. Not every bargain's a good one, though. Here's a guide to finding cabinets on the cheap without getting stuck with cheap cabinets.

Tip #1: Inspect Cabinets on Discount Carefully
Although most factors that contribute to cabinet costs are fairly stable, sometimes there are truly great discounts to be had. Maybe the cabinets were a style that wasn't quite as popular as anticipated (no problem if you like it) or you've lucked into a terrific wholesaler. Or maybe, and this is what you have to watch for, the cabinets are discounted because they're low quality. Cheap cabinets may have shortcuts in the construction like pinned particle board instead of sturdy wood joints or a veneer of hardwood instead of solid hardwood construction. Cheap construction means the cabinets won't hold up well, so the discount may not be such a great deal after all.

Tip #2: The Best "Cheap Cabinets" May Be Your Own
The best way to save on cabinets may be refacing your existing cabinets. Refacing your sturdy cabinets with a new outer layer will give your new kitchen a longer life and a better look than replacing what you have with new, cheap cabinets. New cabinets may seem more exciting, but refacing your cabinets can dramatically change their look, so the result is every bit as impressive. And if you're looking for excitement, don't forget the excitement of major savings.

Tip #3: If You Go With Cheap Cabinets, Know What You??re Getting
If there's no way around new cabinets, and there's no way around a truly tight budget, at least know what you're getting into. Cheap cabinets are certainly better than no cabinets. Be prepared for them to wear more quickly, for doors and drawers to be less sturdy and less smooth in their operation, and for them to be simple (no fancy features).

Cabinets on discount aren't necessarily cheap cabinets, but you won??t know until you look. If you are considering cheap cabinets, consider refacing your cabinets first, and if cheap cabinets are still the best way to go for you, that's okay! They may not be top-notch in style or longevity, but they'll serve your purpose.

About the Author
Charity Shumway is a freelance writer and teaches writing at Oregon State University.