Ready to Assemble cabinets are a great way to achieve a beautiful, high quality kitchen while maintaining flexibility and value. Like any home project, preparation plays a major role in how smoothly things go. Below are key recommendations to help set yourself up for success before, during, and leading into your RTA cabinet installation.

Understanding the Cost to Install Cabinets

The cost to install cabinets can vary widely based on several factors, including the size of the project, cabinet configuration, location, and the experience level of the installer. Additional elements such as custom modifications, uneven surfaces, specialty panels, or appliance coordination can also impact overall labor costs.

Because every space and design is different, it is recommended to obtain multiple installation estimates before moving forward. Sharing your cabinet design or layout with a contractor or installer when requesting a quote allows them to better understand the scope of the project and provide a more accurate estimate. Reviewing what is included in each quote, such as assembly, installation, modifications, and cleanup, can help set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.

Planning for installation costs early in your project helps ensure your budget aligns with your overall design goals.

Who to Contact for Cabinet Installation Services

Lanae does not provide installation services, allowing homeowners flexibility in choosing the installer that best fits their needs or do it themselves. If choosing an installer, many customers choose to work with either licensed general contractors, professional cabinet installers, or experienced carpenters who specialize in cabinetry.

When selecting an installer, consider asking about prior experience with RTA cabinets, review examples of past work, and confirm licensing and insurance where applicable. Clear communication with your installer before the project begins helps ensure expectations are aligned and the installation process moves forward smoothly.

If you are working with a designer or contractor, they may also be able to recommend trusted installation professionals in your area.

Be Prepared for Delivery Day

Lanae cabinets that deliver freight are delivered curbside. For liability reasons, the carrier will not move cabinets inside your home or garage. Cabinet boxes can be large and heavy, so planning ahead is essential.

If you anticipate needing assistance, we recommend arranging extra help in advance. Enlisting friends, family, or hired help on delivery day will make the process be safer and less stressful. Having a clear path from the curb to your storage area will also help prevent damage to boxes during unloading.

Review Your Order at Delivery

When your cabinet delivery arrives, it is important to take time to review the shipment in full. If any damaged, missing, or incorrect items are present, be sure to note them so the Lanae team can address the issue promptly. Carefully reviewing your delivery helps ensure concerns are documented clearly and handled as efficiently as possible.

Do not refuse the delivery if an issue is identified. Refusing a shipment can lead to a prolonged resolution process and may create difficulty in identifying the specific items related to the concern. Instead, accept the delivery and email Lanae with your order number, a clear description of the identified issue or issues, and corresponding images so the team can assist without unnecessary delays to your project.

Store Cabinets Properly if Your Project Is Delayed

If your installation will not begin right away, proper storage is key. Cabinets should remain in their original boxes until you are ready to start. Store them in a dry, climate controlled area, stacked flat and evenly to avoid pressure points.

Improper storage can lead to warping, cracking, or other damage, so keeping cabinets supported and protected will preserve their condition until installation begins.

Schedule Installation After Cabinets Arrive

We recommend waiting to schedule your installation appointment until your cabinets are delivered and accounted for. This helps avoid delays or rescheduling if anything arrives later than expected due to unforeseen circumstances.

Use Available Instructions and Resources

Before starting, familiarize yourself with the provided resources. Lanae offers written instructions and demonstration videos on our website that are designed to guide you through the process.

Printing instructions or watching videos ahead of time allows you or your installer to understand the overall workflow and expectations before assembly begins.

Ready to Install Cabinets: Plan Your Installation Flow

A common recommendation is to begin in a corner and work outward. Having a clear plan for the layout ahead of time helps ensure consistency and alignment throughout the space.

Before beginning, ensure the installation area is level, stable, and ready to support cabinetry and future countertop weight. Identifying any floor variations ahead of time helps avoid adjustments later. Following all safety and installation guidelines helps ensure long term performance.

Recommendations for Installing Base Cabinets

Base cabinets are typically addressed before wall cabinets to help establish proper spacing and alignment throughout space as well as between upper and lower cabinets. Starting with base cabinets allows key dimensions, including overall layout and support points, to be confirmed early in the process.

Keep cabinets boxed and organized until they are ready to be assembled and installed. All boxed cabinets should be paired with their matching carcasses and fronts as to help prevent any confusion. Please refer to your order confirmation for cabinet bundle pairing.

Planning ahead for fillers, moulding, toe kicks, skin panels and/or decorative panels also supports a smoother workflow as the project progresses.

Plan Ahead for Modifications

If your installer plans to modify cabinets in any way, such as cutting, trimming, or altering components, make sure there is a clear plan before moving forward. Additionally, ensure that your installer is confident to make on site modifications and confirm that all tools, materials, and supplies are available in advance.

It is important to note, that RTA cabinets are not the same as custom and that any desired modifications are not provided by Lanae but instead the responsibility of the installer.

Once cabinets are assembled or modified, they are not eligible for return or refund. Careful planning helps avoid unexpected outcomes and protects your investment.

Handles, Knobs, and Hardware

When it comes time to install cabinets, having your handles, knobs, and hardware selected and ordered in advance is essential for a smooth process. Hardware choices directly impact how cabinets are drilled, aligned, and finished, so installers need clear direction before installation begins.

Knowing your hardware details ahead of time, including style, size, finish, and hole spacing, helps ensure cabinets are prepared correctly and consistently. Changes made after installation can require re-drilling or patching, which may affect the final appearance of your cabinets.

Lanae offers a curated collection of hardware options in a variety of styles and colors, making it easier to select pieces that complement your cabinets and overall design. Choosing hardware through Lanae helps simplify planning, ensures compatibility, and allows your installation to move forward without unnecessary interruptions.

Set Yourself Up for a Smooth Experience

RTA cabinet projects are most successful when preparation comes first. From delivery planning and proper storage to clear communication with your installer and understanding costs, each step plays a role in achieving the best result.

If you have questions along the way, the Lanae customer service and design team are always here to support you with resources and guidance and help your project move forward with confidence.