When planning a kitchen renovation, one of the key decisions you’ll face is choosing between rigid kitchen units and flat-pack units. Rigid kitchen units are often preferred for their strength, longevity and ease of installation. But what exactly is a rigid kitchen unit, and why might it be the right choice for your kitchen?
A rigid kitchen unit, which can also be referred to as a factory-built kitchen unit, is a cabinet that is fully assembled during the manufacturing process and delivered to your home as a complete structure. The major benefit of opting for a rigid built kitchen is that the unit will always arrive from the factory 100% complete.
At some point in our lives, we experience that IKEA type cabinet that arrives with a bag of screws cams and dowls, with a cardboard sleeve filled with cabinet sides. Something is always missing or not quite right.
The other issue is installing it. A Prestons Kitchen machine rigid built cabinet would take an experienced installer eight to 12 minutes per cabinet to install, compared to a flat-pack which can take around 45 mins per cabinet. Time is money to your fitter, and ultimately you can end up paying more.
Unlike flat-pack units, which require assembly on-site, rigid units arrive ready to be fitted directly into your kitchen. This is not to be mistaken for a pre-assembled unit, which for all intents and purposes will look like a rigid built unit but is basically a flat-packed unit assembled in different building and delivered to you. Pre-assembled units will arrive to you pre-built by people in a warehouse or off-site rather than by robots, meaning there is a much higher risk of inaccuracy.
At Prestons Kitchens, we specialise in precision German engineering. All of our kitchens are built in whole units by robotics, overseen by expert teams ensuring quality, longevity and peace of mind.
Because they are made under such controlled conditions, the craftsmanship is often more consistent and reliable than DIY-assembled flat-pack units.
1. Strength and durability
One of the biggest advantages of rigid kitchen units is their structural integrity. Factory assembly means joints are more accurately aligned and reinforced, reducing the risk of movement or loosening over time. This makes them ideal for heavy worktops like granite or quartz, and can withstand years of love and wear.
2. Fast and smooth installation
Because rigid units are delivered fully assembled, installation is much quicker and more straightforward. This can save both time and labour costs during your kitchen renovation. There’s no need for flat-pack assembly, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Our kitchens are also designed custom for your space, meaning any uneven lines or nooks and crannies will be accounted for in the design stage.
3. Professional finish
Rigid units often provide a neater, more professional finish. The joins are tighter, doors and drawers fit better, and the unit as a whole is more robust. This attention to detail can elevate the overall look and feel of your kitchen. With rigid units, quality control happens in the factory rather than on-site. This ensures consistent production standards and reduces the likelihood of defects or inconsistencies.
At Prestons Kitchens, we believe in the highest quality kitchens, no matter the budget. That’s why we won’t compromise on the way your kitchen is put together. Every single one of our units is rigid machine-made, not flat-packed or pre-assembled. So, if your budget is £5k or £50k the product and the manufacturing process stays the same. But what does this mean?
Flat-pack kitchens, also known as ready-to-assemble kitchens, come in boxes containing all the components needed for assembly, but customers often experience missing or sup-par parts. These kits often appeal to homeowners due to their lower upfront cost and the convenience of easy transportation. However, convenience doesn’t always equate to quality, especially in the long run.
One of the primary drawbacks of flat-pack kitchens is the quality of materials. To keep costs low, manufacturers often use cheaper materials for the cabinet structures, which may not withstand the test of time and the wear and tear of daily kitchen activities. The assembly process heavily relies on the homeowner’s DIY skills or the quality of the hired assembly service, leading to potential structural issues if not properly put together. Flat-pack kitchens also often have uncoated edges – making them prone to weakening and blowing when under stress or met with steam or liquids.
Rigid-built kitchens are synonymous with durability and precision. These kitchens are constructed using high-quality materials, which offer superior strength and longevity. The manufacturing process involves the use of advanced machinery, ensuring precise measurements and a flawless finish.
The rigidity of these kitchens comes from their solid construction, eliminating the risk of misalignments or wobbly structures. All Prestons Kitchens are rigid-built and come with integrated features like soft-close drawers and doors, enhancing the overall user experience and adding a touch of luxury to your space.
So, if you’re in the market for a new kitchen and are looking at brands like Wren, DIY Kitchens, Howdens or Magnet, why not check us out? At Prestons Kitchens we offer impeccable quality and engineering at affordable prices. Visit one of our showrooms or get in touch today to experience the difference of a rigid kitchen unit.
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