Purchasing cabinets and installing them is a complex process that requires the buyer to know their options and what they want in their home. Rasmussen Custom Cabinets is here to help guide you through the process but there are some questions and numbers to keep in mind when meeting with us. The process of purchasing cabinets needs all of these revisions and steps to make sure your cabinets are high quality.
We have created a guide and an 8 step process that we use for each one of our clients. This shows our customers what we will need from you and how we complete the project from start to finish.
Step 1- Project Overview
The first step in purchasing cabinets is to meet with one of our team members. Before we move into choosing cabinets we will need some information from you about your space.
If your home is new construction you will need to let us know what the floor plan of your home will be, sketches of the home and whatever you have used for inspiration. You can show us photos or your Pinterest board so we can get a feel for what your taste is.
If you are choosing to remodel your space some of the information for purchasing cabinets may look a little different. You should have pictures of the existing space and where the cabinets will need to be, wall measurements, window and door placement, ceiling heights and the preferred placement of major appliances.
Coming with questions for us can help us to narrow down your project specifics. Asking us questions about budget, what cabinets would work best for your lifestyle and having a list of must haves. These help us to have a smooth process and work to get you exactly what you hope for.
Step 2- Design Decisions
Inside of this step, we have 5 steps to design before purchasing cabinets for your project.
First we start with accessories. RCC has some options for accessories like garbage can pull outs, spice racks, silverware inserts and other storage options. You can choose from many options but these are just some of the top options that homeowners choose.
Next we talk about paint colors or stains for cabinets. If you have a paint sample that you love, bring it in and show us! We also have popular and standard colors and stains that we show our clients. They include Black Glaze, Chestnut, Tuscan, Charcoal, Salt Ash, Coastal Grey, Weathered Grey, Solstice and Sahara. We use Sherwin Williams paint and you can find samples in our showroom.
Next you will want to know about wood types. There are different options that come in different colors and will not require a paint or stain. Some common wood choices that clients choose are Alder, Cherry, Hickory, Maple, Rift White Oak and Walnut. Keep in mind that wood often varies in color so not every cabinet will look the same and not every project will have the same wood grain or coloration.
You will then move into deciding the door type and molding. There are options listed on our website and some molding is more traditional and will look timeless for years to come.
The final step before purchasing cabinets is choosing hardware that matches your cabinets and works functionally for your home. We have hundreds of hardware options that can add unique elements to your home. Finish, color, shape and size can affect the price.
We offer a base package as well that is more affordable than going completely custom. You can learn more about the base package here.
Step 3- Material Choices
Purchasing cabinets includes choosing a wood type. Wood can fit in two different categories, rustic or clear. Rustic has more knots, dramatic colors and more variation.
Select/Clear has less variation and less noticeable knots in the wood. This can be a more modern option for homeowners. Some wood options are better for wear and tear and scratch resistant. Using a natural material like wood means that there will be variation in color and grain between cabinet doors.
Step 4- Layout Approval
At step 4, we send all the decisions and needs to our drafting team. Once we send your wish list to the team you will receive the following from them:
• Bird’s eye view/plan of each room
• Each wall elevation, which includes details on specific pullouts & design elements
• 3D drawing of the kitchen
• List of materials and finishes
• Hardware selection with pictures
• Pricing / Estimate (valid for 30 days)
Once you have received the plan, you will need to review it and schedule an appointment to go over any revisions. If changes need to be made we will send it back to the drafters.
In order to ensure that your cabinets fit properly, we will need accurate measurements to make sure your appliances fit and work with electrical and plumbing. If any plumbing or framing has been adjusted after final measure, RCC will need to be notified, because it may affect our cabinet layout. (ex. tub walls, return walls next to fridges, removal of walls, plumbing moving etc.)
Step 5- Finalize Your Order
After revisions and drawings are emailed to you, you must look it over very carefully before you sign the cabinets into production. Once the contract, cost and layout is approved we will send you a contract. Once this contract is drafted, no changes can be made without significant delay in the installation process and purchasing cabinets.
RCC’s payment schedule includes paying 60% of the full payment on the signing of the contract. Another 30% will be due on the day of delivery of your cabinets. The final 10% is due after the completion of the project. Rasmussen accepts credit cards, checks and cash. You can mail payments for purchasing cabinets to us too at our PO Box at 4078 PMB 63855, Salt Lake City, UT 84110.
Step 6- Project Schedule
Now that the contract is completed and a deposit has been received, the project can begin. Our Project Coordinator will work with you through the process to make sure that the whole project is completed without hiccups.
This project timeline is approximate and can change based on shipping times, material availability and other factors.
If RCC is notified that the material is unavailable we will inform you and have you choose am alternate material, your installation will not be scheduled until the material is available. Purchasing cabinets can come with a few bumps in the road, so be flexible with timelines and materials.
Step 7- Day Of Install
Before scheduling installation, make sure that other projects are not being completed on top of one another. Try to avoid painters or floor installation taking place at the same time as the installation of your cabinets. Having children and pets vacate your home will keep them and our employees safe during installation. A clean and calm environment is best for cabinets to be put in. Some other items to consider are:
- Remove any loose rugs from the floor and ensure the surface is dry.
- Remove decorative and other unnecessary items from the work area.
- The process of installation requires the use of aerosol paint and clear coat sealant which produce strong odors. We recommend that windows be open during this process and fans turned on.
- Remove carpet and have flooring laid.
Installation can take more than one day but we work hard to complete your installation in a timely manner. Touch ups or fixes may need to take place a few days after installation.
Step 8- Long Term Care
Once your new cabinets are installed, you want them to look new for a long time. This comes from proper cabinet care that keeps the material in great shape. Steps for cleaning the inside and the outside of your cabinets come with different requirements.
Wiping down the interior of your cabinets can be wiped down with a damp cloth and then dry immediately. If you need to remove stains use a dish detergent with water, and dry immediately.
The exterior of your cabinets can become damaged with excess moisture, so make sure that not only your cabinets are dry but the areas around your cabinets are dry too. Waxing your cabinets is not necessary but you can apply an oil or furniture polish to upkeep. Just make sure to wipe off excess to avoid build up.
Avoid using cleaners that contain bleach, ammonia or abrasive cleaners.
Work With Rasmussen
Now that you know our process we would love to work with you on your home project and purchasing cabinets. Our team has been in the cabinet manufacturing business for many years. We want to work with you and help your cabinets fit your dreams. Our work is high quality and is built to last.
Once your home is completed we would love to take photos to show our future customers on our website. Let us show off our beautiful work in your beautiful home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or visit our showroom to see current options.
