Why Cheap Cabinets Are Killing Your Remodel - And What Wichita Homeowners Should Demand Instead

Christian Raab
7 days ago
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

We recently finished a home remodeling project for a client in East Wichita. Do you know why they chose to do a remodel? You guessed it! A few of the cabinets were literally falling apart and falling off the wall. They weren’t that old, but with heavy plates and serving dishes, the particleboard construction of these cabinets just couldn’t hold up.

You’re spending thousands on your remodel…

So why settle for cabinets that won’t last five years?

I completely understand— it’s tempting to go with the big-box cabinet deals you see advertised everywhere. But here's the truth:

Cheap cabinets are one of the fastest ways to ruin your remodel investment.

They may look decent for a year or two, but behind those shiny doors? You're dealing with:

Flimsy particleboard that warps with humidity
Weak joints that loosen over time
Finishes that chip and peel faster than you can say “soft-close hinge”

If you’re remodeling your Wichita home — especially your kitchen, bathroom, or mudroom — you deserve cabinetry that’s built to last.

Let’s break down what that looks like.

What High-Quality Cabinets Should Include (But Often Don’t)

Plywood Cabinet Boxes

Forget particleboard. Plywood boxes are stronger, more moisture-resistant, and won’t sag or crack with daily use.

Dovetail Drawers

If your drawer joints are stapled or glued, that’s a red flag. Dovetail construction means interlocking joints — stronger, more elegant, and made to last for decades.

Durable, Professional Finishes

Spray-painted particleboard isn’t a finish — it’s a shortcut. Many times, cabinetry is finished with cheap lacquer finishes overseas, and won’t hold up over time.

Soft-Close Hardware

This isn’t just about luxury — it protects your investment. Soft-close hinges and glides reduce stress on the cabinet structure, keeping everything intact longer.

Wichita Cabinetry, Built for Real Life

At Pinnacle, we design and build custom cabinetry for Wichita homeowners who care about quality — not just appearances.

Whether you're remodeling in College Hill, Andover, or Eastborough, your cabinets should:

Match your style
Maximize your space
Stand up to everyday life

We work with local and regional cabinetmakers who share our commitment to quality — using solid construction, premium materials, and timeless craftsmanship.

The Hidden Cost of “Builder Grade” Cabinets

That "deal" on cabinets might seem like a win — until:

Doors start warping
Drawers stick or fall off the track
Finish starts peeling in your high-humidity Kansas summer

Remodeling is an investment — cabinetry is one of its biggest line items. Why cut corners on the very thing you use every day?

Our Design-Build Process = No Cabinet Regrets

As a Wichita-based design-build company, we don’t just throw in whatever cabinets “fit the budget.” We help you make informed decisions — and we build around your priorities.

From 3D cabinet renderings to curated finish samples, you'll see your cabinetry plan come together before a single board is cut.

If you're planning a kitchen or bath remodel in Wichita, don’t gamble with low-quality cabinets!

For more information, please visit our website at PinnacleRemodel.com

Written by: Christian Raab

Christian is the founder and owner of Pinnacle. He began the company here in Wichita in January of 2012. He grew up in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, working the summers with his neighbor, who was a contractor. He later went to school to earn his degree in business with a construction emphasis. Christian’s vision for the company has always been to provide homeowners with a great experience as they work with a professional team they can trust.

When Christian isn’t at the office, you can find him spending time with his five kids, woodworking, and watching the Steelers.