<p>We are exploring a kitchen remodel with IKEA cabinets. Does anyone have experience with using IKEA cabinets and their referred contractor? I am most nervous about the contractor - no matter what products we use.</p>
<p>I redid my kitchen with IKEA cabinets a few years ago. My contractor is a friend who has a lot of experience fitting out small spaces (like boats!) and is really experienced with IKEA (although not a “preferred contractor”). I would not be nervous about using someone they recommend. Familiarity with the assembly and peculiarities of the system would probably save time, which is money in remodeling…as you know.</p>
<p>The other thing is that I read somewhere that IKEA is going to a whole new system starting in 2015. It’s supposed to be better than the old one. I can’t imagine how much better it could be! I adore my IKEA kitchen and will be putting one in my next house, too.</p>
<p>I flip houses for a living and have installed 3 IKEA kitchens. The only issue with IKEA cabinets is that the box frames are pressboard. You have to be careful with major water damage that will ruin the boxes. But you have to worry about that with any kitchen and millions of people are happy with their IKEA kitchens. Don’t get their low end thermofoil cabinets.</p>
<p>There is an art and science to the assembly and installation. A million pieces and parts. The experienced installers know all the tricks and can customize the cabinets where needed and get it done fast. IKEA now subcontracts out to a 3rd party company which then manages the independent certified installers so there is an extra layer of costs involved. But probably worth it because they will get it done fast. I think these certified installers have to look at the design and get involved with the purchase so all parts are ordered correctly. This usually means extra stuff that is left over that you need to return for a refund.</p>
<p>I use my crew to assemble and I can guarantee that certified installers would get it done in about half the time.</p>
<p>Great feedback… Confirmed my thoughts. Thank you!</p>
<p>The IKEA stuff I saw in their store did not impress me. We have a good Home Depot contractor we used for our kitchen renovation. I chose Kraftmaid plywood construction and love them- including the fact that the drawers are just a bit deeper than most manufacturers.</p>