How to choose a cabinet maker?

[Ibreakthings]

Hi,

We have old 90's style home with linen closet in laundry. We want to get rid of that and have all floor+wall mounted cabinets. I am nowhere skilled enough to do the job so we will be hiring a cabinet maker to the job. I wanted to ask community what should I be looking for when hiring a cabinet maker? What kind of questions should I be asking the cabinet maker? As closet has studs in them will it be safe to remove them? Should we looking into adding extra support for roof structure? 

Thanks

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Ibreakthings. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about enlisting the services of a professional.

When hiring a cabinet maker for your laundry makeover, ask about their experience, request examples of past projects, and check references. Discuss materials and customisation options, and get a detailed cost estimate with payment terms and project timeline. Ensure the cabinet maker is licensed and insured and offers a warranty on their work. Inquire about the safe removal of the existing linen closet and whether any structural changes are needed; consider consultation with a structural engineer if you have concerns. Confirm if permits are required and discuss cleanup and disposal plans. Lastly, establish clear communication channels throughout the project. 

These questions will help you find a skilled professional for your cabinet makeover while addressing concerns about structural changes and safety.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Ibreakthings]

Thanks Mitch! 

I have couple of more questions.

A. I want to save cost so I may take of on task of removing plasterboard and tiles. I'll leave framing to the experts.

How hard can it be? What should I look for or avoid?

B. I like to use hardwood as benchtop? Any specific kind you can recommend?

Thanks 

[EricL]

Hello @Ibreakthings 

If you are planning on doing your own demolition, I suggest making sure that you wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a facemask. I recommend having the plumbing and electrical services be disconnected by a professional just to be safe. Always be aware of sharp objects when tearing down cabinets and shelves. 

It's better to unscrew a cabinet or shelf from the wall rather than tearing it out. It will mean less repairs and save you from having to replace all the plasterboard in the room. 

In regards to the benchtop, there are a number of choices available, I propose visiting your local store and having a look at the timber benchtop sample board in the kitchen department. You can also ask the in-store kitchen specialist how much it will cost to get a custom cut timber benchtop. Although not a hardwood, I personally prefer bamboo because of its pattern and colour. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric