How to Modify RTA Cabinets: Step-by-Step Guide

Many American homeowners love RTA (Ready to Assemble) cabinets for their affordability and quick installation. However, how to modify RTA cabinets is a question that comes up frequently among DIY enthusiasts and home renovators. With just a few key steps-measuring, prepping, and adding design enhancements-you can give your RTA cabinets a high-end, custom look. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how to modify RTA cabinets from start to finish, including essential product suggestions and advanced storage solutions.

1. Why Learn How to Modify RTA Cabinets?

There are multiple reasons to discover how to modify RTA cabinets:

• Personalization: Refresh the look by painting, staining, or replacing hardware.
• Improved Storage: Installing pull-out trays, lazy susans, or adjustable shelving makes daily use more efficient.
• Cost-Savings: Instead of paying for entirely custom cabinetry, you can simply upgrade your existing RTA cabinets.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Decorative moldings or trendy finishes can transform a basic cabinet set into a designer look.

If you need a wide selection of RTA cabinet options before starting your modifications, explore the RTA Kitchen Cabinets collection from Ready to Ship Cabinets. You'll find various styles to suit your vision, including Base Cabinets for practical and versatile upgrades.

For additional inspiration and expert opinions on modern cabinet upgrades, Architectural Digest frequently covers trending design ideas that can be adapted to RTA cabinets.

2. Preparing to Modify Your RTA Cabinets

A successful upgrade begins with proper preparation. Here's what you need to do before diving into how to modify RTA cabinets:

A measuring tape is a versatile tool that helps you measure the length, width, and height of the space where you want to install or modify your cabinets.

• Gather Your Tools: Have screwdrivers, a power drill, measuring tape, sandpaper, primer, paint/stain, new hardware, and any accessories (pull-out trays, crown molding, etc.) ready.
• Set Up a Workspace: Clear a table or counter where you can safely remove cabinet doors and store hardware. Use drop cloths to protect floors.
• Plan Your Design: Decide on the color, finishes, and any added features like under-cabinet lighting or decorative trim. For design inspiration, you can browse HGTV's Kitchen Ideas or Better Homes & Gardens .

Label each removed part (like hinges and doors) to make reassembly simpler. This small step saves a lot of time when learning how to modify RTA cabinets.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Modify RTA Cabinets

You can assemble or modify your RTA cabinet with basic tools-just follow the instructions carefully.

1. Remove Existing Hardware:
   Unscrew cabinet doors, knobs, and hinges. Keep all screws in labeled bags. This precaution helps maintain order, an essential first step in how to modify RTA cabinets.
2. Sand & Prep Surfaces:
   Lightly sand the cabinet frames and doors to remove any glossy finishes. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth to ensure a smooth base for painting or staining.
3. Apply Primer & Paint or Stain:
   Use a primer if needed (especially if switching from dark to light colors). Once it's dry, apply paint or stain in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before adding another.
4. Upgrade the Hardware:
   Swap out old knobs for modern pulls or install soft-close hinges for a premium feel. Double-check your measurements to prevent crooked placement.
5. Enhance Storage:
   Adding pull-out shelves, spice racks, or drawer organizers can revolutionize your cabinet functionality. Incorporating these elements is a major part of how to modify RTA cabinets for daily convenience.
6. Add Decorative Moldings:
   Whether it's crown molding on top or light rail molding beneath, trim can elevate basic cabinets. For instance, the LM8 Light Rail Molding helps conceal under-cabinet lighting, giving your cabinets a custom look.
7. Reassemble & Adjust:
   Reattach doors and hardware. Make sure everything lines up correctly and that doors swing smoothly. Fine-tune any hinge adjustments for perfect alignment.

Follow these steps carefully to master how to modify RTA cabinets. For further in-depth strategies, consider exploring This Old House's Kitchen Resources .

4. Additional Enhancements & Product Suggestions

Aside from paint, hardware, and moldings, consider these strategic cabinet additions to maximize convenience:

• Blind Corner Solutions: If you have a corner base cabinet, you might look into corner cabinet organizers to reduce wasted space.
• Pantry Upgrades: Upgrading to a full-height pantry cabinet offers ample storage for dry goods, pots, and pans. This addition is ideal for anyone who needs more spacious, neatly organized kitchens.
• Accessory Items: Installing items like cabinet accessories -such as trim panels, return panels, or roll-out trays-can refine both the function and the look of your RTA cabinets.

Investing in these enhancements can turn a basic RTA setup into an elegant and highly personalized Ready to Ship Cabinets dream kitchen. When in doubt, you can always reach out to our support team or visit our Contact Us page for further guidance.

5. Key Takeaways for a Successful RTA Cabinet Makeover

• Plan Thoroughly: Measure meticulously, gather all tools, and choose the right hardware upgrades to streamline the process.
• Improve Storage: Pull-out trays, adjustable shelves, and corner solutions can significantly elevate your daily user experience.
• Finishing Touches: Accent moldings, new hardware finishes, and the right color palette can transform a basic setup into a designer look.
• Maintain Regularly: Simple, consistent upkeep ensures your modified cabinets stay beautiful and functional for years.

6. Maintaining Your Modified RTA Cabinets

After you've mastered how to modify RTA cabinets, follow these tips to keep them looking fresh:

• Regular Cleaning: Use mild soap and water to wipe down surfaces, avoiding harsh chemicals that may damage the finish.
• Check Hardware: Hinges and pulls can loosen over time. Tighten them periodically for consistent alignment.
• Protect the Finish: Use felt pads on drawers or cabinet doors to minimize scratches and scuffs.
• Reapply Topcoat if Needed: High-traffic areas may require a new clear sealant after some years.

Maintaining your cabinets ensures your effort in learning how to modify RTA cabinets pays off for many years to come. For more advanced cabinetry care, consult Better Homes & Gardens Kitchen Resources , Family Handyman , or other reputable industry guides.

7. Conclusion

Knowing how to modify RTA cabinets opens up countless possibilities for American homeowners wanting to refresh their kitchens or bathrooms. From simple cosmetic changes like paint and hardware swaps to adding sophisticated features like soft-close hinges and decorative moldings, your cabinets can quickly look and function like high-end, custom pieces without the hefty price tag.

Whether you're opting for new accessories, exploring all product categories , or simply adding a fresh coat of paint, these modifications will breathe new life into your living space. Once you've seen the difference these enhancements make, you'll understand why learning how to modify RTA cabinets is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects around.