What to Know About Frameless Cabinets
Frameless cabinets are an ever-growing trend that doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. Over time, this European style has made its way to the U.S. and quickly gained popularity. Let’s dive in to find out what makes frameless cabinets unique, what you should consider when using this style cabinet, and more.
What Is a Frameless Cabinet?
If you’re unfamiliar with frameless cabinets, the main difference is there’s no front face frame. This leaves cabinets with a sleek and contemporary style while also providing a European look. Because of the lack of a face frame, all door-mounted cabinet hardware is attached to the cabinet box. Frameless cabinets tend to have more storage space as well because they are not hindered by face frames and hardware.
Why You Should Choose Frameless Cabinets
Any remodel can benefit from quality frameless cabinets. Now that cabinet manufacturers across America have warmed up to this style of construction, there are more door styles and finishes available than ever before. If you like minimal and modern, there are endless slab and shaker styles to choose from. Likewise, if you prefer a more decorative style, try raised panel or beaded door styles.
Among the many reasons to choose frameless cabinets, one major benefit is they are full access. Essentially, that means rather than cabinet door and drawer hardware attaching to a face frame, it attaches directly to the cabinet box. This makes putting your cabinet shelves in way more convenient. When the doors are open, you also have “full access” to every inch of storage with no obstructions in the way.
Lastly, these “Euro-style” cabinets tend to have thicker cabinet walls due to the lack of face frame. This adds structural stability while increasing the weight capacity of your cabinets.
CliqStudios Frameless vs. Other Brands
CliqStudios offers RTA (ready-to-assemble) frameless cabinets. The main reasons are to provide the frameless option at a lower price point and to prevent potential cabinets shifting issues during transport. To see how CliqStudios high-quality frameless cabinets “stack up” to the competition, explore the comparison chart below.
As you can see, compared to other big brands, CliqStudios’ frameless RTA cabinets have durable cabinet construction. Overall, ¾" plywood boxes and thicker back panels, among other characteristics, make cabinet installation easier and more efficient.
Some brands sell a metal rail hanging system that can cause issues when mounting your cabinets to the wall, and sometimes the holes are not drilled correctly creating more work for you. With CliqStudios RTA frameless cabinets, this will never be an issue.
Designer Perspective: What to Consider
We asked CliqStudios designers what customers should keep in mind with frameless cabinets, and this is what they said:
“Most customers that are asking for frameless are looking for a European style cabinet, which is typically a very sleek and modern look. Without the frame, frameless cabinets maximize storage, allowing for large drawers and storage of larger items. However, frameless cabinets do not have the same stability as framed cabinets. It may be wise to choose smaller cabinets when designing with this style. Frameless cabinets may be more difficult to install, but the process of assembly is faster.”
Selecting the best style of cabinets for your goals and budget can be complicated, so if you need to, make a pros and cons list including your budget. It’s also a great idea to get a second opinion from a professional, like a CliqStudios designer. Their knowledge covers every cabinet line, storage solutions, budget concerns, and encompasses both framed and frameless cabinet options. Once these decisions are made, you can confidently start your remodel.
Start exploring your frameless kitchen cabinet options today!
FAQs
Are framed or frameless cabinets better?
Both framed and frameless cabinets are great options for different projects. If you’re looking for clean lines and European-style design, then frameless is the best choice. However, if you prefer more character, then framed cabinets are probably best.
Are frameless cabinets less sturdy?
Frameless cabinets can be less structurally sound during transit if they are already assembled. CliqStudios only provides RTA frameless cabinets to prevent this concern. Once they are installed properly, they are just as durable as framed.
Are frameless cabinets more expensive?
In some cases, yes, but with CliqStudios RTA frameless kitchen cabinets, they are not more expensive.
How do you install frameless cabinets?
This depends on the brand of frameless cabinets you choose. With some big box stores, they sell metal rail hanging systems that can be cumbersome and add time to installation. CliqStudios uses ¾" cabinet walls and ¼" MDF full-height back panels, so there is no need for rail hanging systems.
