What is the Cabinet Box Called?
What is the Cabinet Box Called?
When designing and building a cabinet, many components need to be considered. One of the most important parts of a cabinet is the box. The box is the main structure of the cabinet that provides the storage space for your items. But what exactly is the box of a cabinet called? Get to know it with Leona Rodriguesi Founder Of Mornington Cabinet Makers.
The box of a cabinet is commonly referred to as the cabinet box. It is made up of four sides, a top, and a bottom. The sides of the cabinet box are called stiles, while the top and bottom are called rails. These parts come together to form a box that can be mounted on the wall or floor. The cabinet box is the primary structure of the cabinet and excludes doors, drawers, and other decorative features.
Understanding the terminology of cabinetry is essential when designing and building your own cabinets or choosing the right cabinets for your kitchen. Knowing what the box of a cabinet is called, and the different components that make it up, can help you make informed decisions about your storage needs. In the following sections, we will explore the different parts of a cabinet box in more detail, so you can have a better understanding of how cabinets are constructed.
Cabinet Box Construction
When it comes to cabinet construction, the box is the main structure that holds everything together. The box is made up of several components, including the sides, back, top, and bottom. With Leona Rodriguesi Founder Of Mornington Cabinet Makers, we’ll take a closer look at the components and terminology used in cabinet box construction, as well as the materials used to build them.
Components and Terminology
The sides of the cabinet box are known as the stiles, while the top and bottom are called the rails. Together, they form the frame of the cabinet box. The face frame is attached to the front part of the cabinet box and typically consists of vertical pieces called stiles and horizontal pieces called rails. Stiles and rails join together to create a sturdy frame that serves as the fixing point for cabinet doors and drawers.
The box can be constructed in a variety of ways, including frameless and face-framed construction. Frameless cabinets are becoming increasingly popular due to their sleek, modern look. They do not have a face frame and rely on thicker side panels for support. Face-framed cabinets are more traditional and have a frame around the outside of the box.
Materials and Quality
The materials used to build a cabinet box can vary widely depending on the quality of the cabinet. Solid wood, plywood, MDF, and particleboard are all common materials used in cabinet construction.
Solid wood is the most durable and high-quality option, but it is also the most expensive. Plywood is a good middle ground, offering durability and strength at a more affordable price point. MDF and particleboard are less expensive options that are often used in lower-end cabinets.
The quality of the cabinet box is also determined by the materials used to build it. A high-quality cabinet will use solid wood or plywood for the box, while lower-quality cabinets may use MDF or particleboard. The quality of the finish is also important. Stain and paint can be used to finish the cabinet, with stain being the more traditional option. Thermofoil is another option that is becoming more popular due to its durability and affordability.
Cabinet Box Types and Installation
When it comes to cabinet boxes, there are several types that you can choose from. The most common cabinet box styles are stock, framed, and frameless cabinets. Each of these cabinet box styles has its own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.
Standard Cabinet Box Styles
Stock cabinets are pre-made cabinets that you can purchase at a showroom or home improvement store. They are available in standard sizes and finishes, which makes them a cost-effective option for many homeowners. However, stock cabinets may not be suitable for every kitchen or bathroom remodel, as they may not fit perfectly in your space.
Framed cabinets are another popular option. They feature a frame that is attached to the front edges of the cabinet box. The frame adds strength to the box and the cabinet doors are inset into the face frame for a clean look. These cabinets are available in partial or full overlay styles.
Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, do not have a face frame. Instead, they feature a sleek, modern design that maximizes storage space. They are available in partial or full overlay styles as well.
Fitting and Customisation
When it comes to installing your cabinets, there are several factors to consider. For example, you may need to use shims to ensure that your cabinets are level and plumb. You may also need to install stretchers between the cabinets to provide additional support.
Cabinet hardware, such as knobs, pulls, hinges, and drawer slides, can also be customized to fit your specific needs. For example, you may want to choose concealed hinges for a sleek, modern look. Or, you may prefer a more traditional look with visible hinges.
Drawer boxes and drawer fronts can also be customized to fit your specific needs. Dovetail drawer boxes are a popular option, as they are durable and provide a high-end look. Meanwhile, drawer glides, such as soft-close glides, can also be added for a premium touch.
Adjustable shelves are another feature that can be customized to fit your needs. They allow you to adjust the height of your shelves to accommodate different items.
Finally, the back panel, end panels, and toe kick can also be customized to fit your specific needs. These features can be painted or stained to match your cabinets, or they can be left unfinished for a more rustic look.
