Choosing Cabinetry + Countertop Subcontractors

Think About:

• Custom vs. semi-custom capability

• Shop drawing accuracy + review process

• Responsibility for handles + pulls + trim

• Ability to coordinate with:

  • Appliances (fit + ventilation)

  • Electrical outlet placement

  • Plumbing fixtures + valves

  • Tile + backsplash installers

• Countertop templating after cabinetry install

Subs to Select:

• Cabinet manufacturer + installer

• Countertop fabricator + installer

• Millwork/trim carpenter (for specialty built-ins)

• Finish carpenter (crown + toe kicks)

• Hardware installer (if separate)

Choose installers who coordinate all overlaps with MEP trades.

Choosing Cabinetry Materials

Think About:

• Full overlay vs framed vs inset style — affects installation

• Moisture resistance in kitchens + baths

• Drawer and door quality (soft close, dovetail, metal boxes)

• Appliance paneling requirements

Materials to Select (as applicable):
Cabinet Body:

• Plywood construction vs particle board

• Moisture-resistant board

Door Styles:

• Shaker, flat panel, raised panel, slab

Finishes:

• Painted (color + sheen)

• Stained (wood species, grain direction)

• Laminate / veneer

Hardware:

• Soft-close hinges + drawer slides

• Pulls + knobs (sizes + finish)

• Interior accessories (pull-outs, organizers)

Trim & Accents:

• Crown molding

• Light rail trim

• End panels + finished toe kicks

Cabinet selections anchor kitchen + bath design identity.

Choosing Countertop Materials

Think About:

• Stain resistance (kitchens) vs water tolerance (baths)

• Structural support at overhangs

• Seam locations + visibility

• Heat resistance at cooking areas

Materials to Select (as applicable):

• Quartz (engineered stone)

• Granite or natural stone

• Porcelain slab

• Marble (higher maintenance)

• Butcher block

• Solid surface (Corian)

• Concrete countertops

Edge Profiles:

• Eased, bevel, ogee, miter, waterfall

Sink Mount:

• Undermount

• Farmhouse apron front

• Drop-in (budget or utility areas)

Backsplash Interface:

• Full-height slab

• Tile transition plan

Countertops require precise measurement after cabinets installed.

Choosing Tools, Equipment & Rentals

Think About:

• Protecting flooring and finished walls during install

• Heavy slab lifting + safe access

Tools & Equipment to Select:

• Laser level for cabinet alignment

• Clamps + shims for setting

• Slab suction lifts and dollies

• Dust control for on-site cuts

• Temporary protection (ram board, blankets)

Cabinet leveling determines countertop success.

Choosing Vendors & Supply Sources

Think About:

• Lead times → cabinets often 6–12 weeks

• Factory finish durability and warranties

• Seamless integration with interior design

Vendor Types:

• Cabinet shop (custom or factory)

• Countertop fabrication shop

• Hardware supplier (soft-close systems)

• Specialty finishing vendor (if stain or paint on site)

Approved vendors prevent finish defects + delays.

Thank you for completing this Session!

Home Building Master Class | The Contractor Checklist

Video Explanation

www.thecontractorchecklist.com