At One Source Cabinets, we understand that quality cabinet installation is a craft, not just a task. It’s a process that requires precision, experience, and careful planning to ensure that every piece fits perfectly and functions flawlessly. While speed may seem desirable, true craftsmanship takes time—especially with modern, European-inspired cabinetry that demands clean lines, minimal reveals, and impeccable surfaces. Here’s an inside look at why we focus on quality over speed and what it takes to achieve efficient successful cabinet installation.
The Misconception About Speed vs. Efficiency and How It Affects Quality
Many people assume that speed equals efficiency and that quality is a given. Unfortunately, this isn’t true, especially when it comes to cabinet installation. While efficiency is important, speed rarely guarantees craftsmanship or efficiency. For European-inspired designs, where precision and alignment are critical, cutting corners compromises the final product and can result in further delays. Our team at One Source Cabinets prioritizes quality by focusing on accuracy, detail, and methodical processes.
The Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
We average about six cabinets per installer per day. While this may seem slow to some, this timeline includes much more than simply placing cabinets. Here’s a breakdown of what our installers do to ensure a flawless result:
1. Preparation and Layout
Review the Plans: Installers familiarize themselves with the project layout and organize parts by room.
Tool Setup: Depending on the site (e.g., new construction or remodels), installers set up tools, saws, and generators if necessary.
Analyze the Site: Floors and walls are inspected for levelness and straightness. Lasers and other tools are used to ensure a precise installation.
2. Planning for Cabinet Placement
Starting Points: Installers carefully choose where to begin to avoid alignment issues. For example, starting on a bowed or uneven surface can disrupt the entire installation.
Flooring Considerations: Flooring thickness, such as tile or wood, impacts cabinet elevation. This ensures appliances fit properly under countertops or within openings.
3. Cabinet Installation
Leveling and Alignment: Shims and brackets are used to account for uneven walls or floors.
Stud Location: Cabinets are securely mounted to wall studs for lasting stability.
Upper and Lower Cabinets: Installers account for countertop height, appliance clearances, and any design-specific details during placement.
The Role of Detailed Plans and Communication
Cabinet installation often involves interpreting plans without the benefit of direct input from designers or homeowners. That’s why detailed plans are essential—they guide the process and reduce guesswork. Our project coordinators also work with contractors and homeowners ahead of time to identify potential issues, such as:
- Incorrect plumbing or electrical locations.
- Misaligned air vents or HVAC placements.
- Discrepancies in wall measurements or countertop specifications.
While final accountability for these factors lies with contractors and homeowners, we do our best to catch and communicate these issues early to avoid delays.
The Importance of Framing and Wall Quality
The quality of framing and drywall significantly impacts cabinet installation. Uneven walls and floors can create challenges that require careful adjustments with shims or scribing. Scribing, which involves shaping trim to fit uneven surfaces, is an art that can make or break a high-end installation. This step ensures that gaps between cabinets and walls or ceilings are minimized.
Post-Installation Adjustments
Even after the cabinets are secured, there’s still work to be done:
- Door and Drawer Alignment: Once cabinets are level, doors and drawers are adjusted for proper alignment. One Source Cabinets uses a unique adjuster system, allowing easy modifications without damaging the cabinet fronts.
- Molding and Trim: Toe kicks and trim are installed for a polished look. For ceiling-height cabinets, installers may need to scribe the trim to match the ceiling’s contours.
- Return Visits: If flooring or countertops are installed after the cabinets, our team will return to finish trim or make additional adjustments as needed.
Scheduling and Communication Are Key
Cabinet installation depends on well-coordinated schedules. Short-notice delays or reschedules can disrupt the entire process and impact other trades on the project. To minimize disruptions:
- Communicate any delays as soon as possible.
- Keep all parties—designers, contractors, and installers—informed to avoid miscommunication.
- Schedule with reasonable timelines that allow for unexpected adjustments.
Why One Source Cabinets Stands Out
At One Source Cabinets, we balance timelines, accuracy, and quality to achieve the best results. Our six-cabinets-per-day-per-installer guideline reflects our commitment to taking the necessary time to deliver exceptional craftsmanship. Whether it’s a modern, minimalist design or a more traditional style, our team is dedicated to making your vision a reality. With custom slab cabinet and semi-custom cabinet options, we have something for everyone.
Thank you for trusting One Source Cabinets with your project. We look forward to exceeding your expectations with our expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to quality. Explore our website to learn more or to schedule your next project!