RTA Cabinet Assembly: Your Complete Time Guide
You've picked ready-to-assemble cabinets for your renovation, a great way to get stylish, quality cabinetry without the high price tag. The big question is: How long will they take to assemble?
Despite the name, the time it takes can vary quite a bit. We'll explore the typical assembly times, the factors that influence how long the job takes, and some expert tips to help you get your project done faster.
Factors That Alter Assembly Time
To set a practical timeline, it's helpful to understand the multitude of variables that influence the process.
1. Cabinet Type & Size
A small wall cabinet with a single door is a much simpler build than a large, multi-component base cabinet with drawers. Tall pantry cabinets, corner units, and cabinets with built-in features like a Lazy Susan will naturally require more time.
2. Level of Experience
A first-time DIYer will likely spend more time on their initial cabinet, carefully reading instructions and familiarizing themselves with the process. A professional contractor, on the other hand, who has assembled countless RTA units, can work at a much faster pace.
3. Tools & Setup
Having the correct tools is a time-saver. A power drill will dramatically speed up the process. A tidy workspace is also imperative.
4. Cabinet Brand and Design
The quality and design of the RTA cabinets also influence assembly time. Quality brands often feature simpler, more intuitive instructions as well as components with pre-drilled holes. This reduces the time spent on troubleshooting.
Average Assembly Times
While the factors above can alter the timeline, here is a general breakdown. These estimates are based on a homeowner with basic experience and the proper tools.
- Wall Cabinet: You’ll spend approximately 20–30 minutes on a single-door wall cabinet.
- Standard Base Cabinet: A base cabinet with a door and a drawer takes 30–45 minutes.
- Tall Pantry Cabinet: These bigger, more complicated units take 60–90 minutes.
- Full Kitchen: For a 10x10 kitchen, a beginner may spend 8–12 hours on assembly. A professional can often complete the same job in less than a full workday.
Assembly Tips
Here are some simple, yet practical tips to make your RTA cabinet assembly quick and painless:
- Organize Everything: Unbox all your cabinets and organize the pieces and hardware for each unit.
- Leverage Power Tools: Invest in a good power drill with the right bits.
- Assemble in Batches: Don’t jump around. Begin with base cabinets, then wall cabinets.
- Watch Videos: View video tutorials that walk you through the process.
When to Hire A Pro?
You should think about hiring a professional when:
- Expansive or Convoluted Kitchens: If you have a large kitchen with a complex layout, multiple cabinet types, or a tight renovation timeline, a professional can ensure the job is done quickly and correctly.
- Quick Turnarounds: A professional's expertise is key to getting the job done quickly.
- Precision is a Necessity: For features like appliance cutouts, an expert’s precision can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Putting together RTA cabinets might seem intimidating, but with the right mindset and tools it's fast and rewarding. Ready to begin your project? Explore Florida Cabinet Supply's extensive selection of RTA cabinets!
