Hiring a custom cabinet maker in Calgary might seem simple. All you have to do is find someone, tell them what you want, and they build it. But the truth is, it’s not always that straightforward.
Without asking the right questions, you could end up facing unexpected costs, delays, or even cabinets that don’t turn out the way you imagined.
Think about it: custom cabinets are a long-term investment. Not only should they look good, they need to be functional, durable, and tailored to your space. That’s why it’s important to go beyond just picking a cabinet maker based on their portfolio or price. You need to understand how they work, what to expect during the process, and whether they’re the right fit for your project.
In this article, we’ll cover the key questions you should ask before hiring a custom cabinet makers Calgary. These questions will help you avoid surprises, make informed decisions, and feel confident that you’re choosing someone who truly understands your vision.
1. Can I see examples of your previous work?
Seeing a cabinet maker’s past projects gives you a real sense of their style, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. It’s one thing for someone to claim they do high-quality work, but their portfolio will either prove it or raise red flags.
Photos or actual samples show you how they handle different materials, design styles, and custom features. It also helps you see if their aesthetic matches what you’re looking for. Without this, you’re essentially hiring someone blindly, which is risky for such an important investment.
They should provide:
- A well-organized portfolio, either digital or physical, with clear photos.
- A variety of projects showcasing different styles and finishes.
- References tied to specific projects, allowing you to verify their claims.
Bonus: They may offer to show you current projects in progress or even visit completed installations.
2. How long have you been in the custom cabinet business?
Experience in custom cabinetry is not just about how long someone has been in business. It’s about how much they’ve learned from different projects over the years.
A more experienced cabinet maker has likely encountered and solved a wide range of challenges, from complex installations to design adjustments. This knowledge helps them avoid mistakes that less experienced cabinet makers might make. It also shows stability; if they’ve been around for years, they’re more likely to be reliable and have a good reputation.
Expect a clear, confident response such as, “We’ve been in business for over 10 years, specializing in custom kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.”
Look for details about the types of projects they’ve handled, any specific challenges they’ve overcome, and how their skills have evolved. If they’re newer to the business, that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker, but they should still demonstrate competence and a strong portfolio.
3. Do you offer design consultations, and is it included in the cost?
Design consultations are critical, especially if you’re not 100% sure what you want.
A good cabinet maker helps you figure out the best layout, materials, and style for your space. Without a consultation, you might miss opportunities to improve functionality or aesthetics. Additionally, knowing whether the consultation is included in the cost helps you avoid unexpected fees later.
They should explain whether they offer design consultations, and if so, what’s included. You might hear:
- “Yes, we offer free initial consultations to discuss your ideas and needs.”
- Or, “We charge a small fee for in-depth design planning, but it’s applied to your final bill if you proceed with us.”
They should also describe how involved they’ll be in the design process, whether they provide drawings, 3D renderings, or just verbal guidance.
4. What materials do you use, and can I choose my own?
The materials used in your cabinets directly impact their durability, appearance, and cost.
Some cabinet makers may cut corners by using cheaper materials without telling you. Asking this question ensures transparency. It also allows you to understand the pros and cons of different materials, helping you make informed decisions about quality versus budget.
They should clearly outline:
- Types of materials they offer, such as solid wood, plywood, MDF, or particleboard.
- The benefits and drawbacks of each (e.g., solid wood is durable but expensive, while MDF is budget-friendly but less moisture-resistant).
- Whether you can supply your own materials or request specific options.
- How they source their materials. Are they locally sourced? Sustainable? Imported?
A trustworthy cabinet maker will educate you about your options instead of pushing the cheapest materials.
5. Can you customize cabinets to fit my specific space and needs?
The whole point of custom cabinets is to have them tailored to your unique space and lifestyle.
Whether you have an awkward corner, need specific storage solutions, or want built-in organizers, your cabinet maker should be able to handle it. This question ensures they’re truly creating something custom for you.
They should confidently say “yes” and explain their process, including:
- Taking precise measurements of your space.
- Discussing your specific storage needs and design preferences.
- Offering solutions like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, or custom drawer organizers.
- Providing design drafts or sketches to help you visualize the final product.
Their enthusiasm about customization is a good sign. Why? They should be excited to create something unique for you.
6. What’s the estimated timeline for this project?
Custom cabinets can take weeks or even months depending on the complexity of the design, the availability of materials, and the cabinet maker’s workload.
If you’re planning a larger renovation, delays with your cabinets can throw off your entire timeline. That’s why asking this question helps you plan ahead and sets realistic expectations to avoid arguments in the future.
They should provide a breakdown of the timeline, including:
- The design phase: How long it takes to finalize plans.
- The production phase: Time needed for building, assembling, and finishing the cabinets.
- The installation phase: When they’ll install the cabinets and how long it will take.
- Possible delays: How they handle issues like supply chain problems or unexpected site conditions.
A professional cabinet maker will also explain how they communicate timeline updates if delays occur.
7. How do you handle unexpected issues or changes during the project?
No project goes perfectly according to plan. Changes in design, measurement errors, or material delays can happen. How a cabinet maker handles these surprises speaks volumes about their professionalism and problem-solving skills. This question helps you understand their process and how they communicate when issues arise.
They should have a clear process in place, such as:
- Regular check-ins or progress updates to catch issues early.
- A formal process for change orders, where both parties agree on adjustments before moving forward.
- Transparent communication if something goes wrong, with solutions presented quickly.
A confident, detailed answer shows they’ve dealt with challenges before and know how to handle them professionally.
8. Will you handle the installation, or do I need to hire someone else?
Some cabinet makers focus only on building the cabinets, leaving the installation to a third party. This can create communication gaps or additional costs if you have to find an installer separately. Knowing this upfront helps you plan and avoid last-minute surprises.
Ideally, they’ll say:
- “We handle everything from design to installation.”
- Or, “We don’t do installations, but we work closely with trusted installers we can recommend.”
If they subcontract the work, ask how they ensure quality control during the installation process.
9. What is included in the quote, and are there any additional costs I should expect?
Unexpected costs are one of the most frustrating parts of any home project.
A detailed quote from the custom cabinet makers Calgary helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for and prevents surprises down the road. It also allows you to compare quotes from different cabinet makers accurately.
Expect a clear, itemized breakdown, including:
- Materials: The type of wood, finishes, and hardware included.
- Labor: Design, construction, and installation costs.
- Additional costs: Delivery fees, demolition of old cabinets, or any custom features.
- What’s not included: For example, electrical or plumbing work.
A transparent cabinet maker will also discuss potential variables that could affect the final price.
10. Do you offer warranties on your cabinets and workmanship?
A warranty is a sign that the cabinet maker stands behind their work. It protects you if something goes wrong after installation, like doors warping or hardware failing. Without a warranty, you could be left covering the costs of repairs yourself.
They should offer a clear warranty covering both materials and workmanship.
Look for details like:
- The duration (typically 1 to 5 years).
- What’s covered (e.g., structural issues, hardware defects).
- Exclusions (e.g., damage from misuse or exposure to extreme humidity).
If they don’t offer a warranty, consider it a red flag.
11. Can you provide references from past clients in Calgary?
References help you verify the cabinet maker’s reliability, quality of work, and professionalism.
Speaking to past clients gives you real insight into what it’s like to work with them, beyond what’s shown in photos or on their website.
The cabinet maker you’re planning to hire should easily provide the following:
- At least 2–3 references from recent clients in Calgary.
- Contact information or written testimonials.
- The option to view reviews on Google, Houzz, or other platforms.
In case the cabinet maker is hesitating to share references, that’s a clear red flag.
12. How do you ensure the cabinets are durable and built to last?
Custom cabinets are a significant investment, and you want them to hold up over time. This question helps you understand their commitment to quality, both in materials and craftsmanship.
They should confidently explain:
- The materials they use (solid wood, high-quality plywood, durable hardware).
- Construction techniques like dovetail joints or soft-close hinges.
- Finishing methods that protect against moisture, wear, and tear.
Their answer should reflect a clear focus on quality, not just aesthetics.
Final Thoughts – 12 Questions To Ask A Cabinet Maker
Choosing the right custom cabinet maker in Calgary should be about partnering with a professional who understands your vision, values quality, and communicates openly.
The questions we listed down in this guide are designed to help you dig deeper, beyond the surface of pretty designs and polished portfolios, so you can confidently make a decision that feels right for your home and budget.
Remember, custom cabinets are a long-term investment. Taking the time to ask the right questions now can save you from costly mistakes, unnecessary stress, and disappointing results later.
Also, make sure you don’t hesitate to be thorough. Any reputable cabinet maker will appreciate your attention to detail because it shows you care about the quality of your project just as much as they do.
So, before you hire, ask the questions, trust your instincts, and choose a cabinet maker who’s as invested in your project as you are!
