IN SHORT:
Frameless cabinets, or European-style cabinets, have door hinges and drawer runners that attach directly to the inside walls of the cabinet box.
Framed cabinets are traditional American-style cabinets with a frame along the face of the cabinet box. The door hinges and drawer runners attach to this frame.
At Cabinets ASAP we carry Framed and Frameless Cabinets styles.
Both provide endless design possibilities and their own unique advantages. Here are some things to consider as you decide which type of cabinet construction is best for you.
FRAMED CABINETS
Framed cabinet construction consists of rails and stiles that create a face frame
American cabinet manufacturers have traditionally built cabinets using a framed construction. In this type of cabinet construction, the rails and stiles form a 1-1/2 inch face “frame” at the front of the cabinet box. This frame resembles a flat picture frame that is attached to the door front, giving added dimension to the door front.
ADVANTAGES
- Less expensive
- Many style options to choose from
- Available in many materials
- Can be hung on uneven walls
CONS
- Less accessible and harder to use
- Installation may take longer
- It May be made of lighter material
FRAMELESS CABINETS
Frameless cabinet construction is a European way of manufacturing cabinets that has become popular among American homeowners seeking simple, more contemporary cabinet designs. Frameless cabinetry is sometimes called “full access” cabinetry because it offers greater accessibility by eliminating the face frame. Instead, it relies on thicker box construction for stability. Only full overlay doors can be used, with hinges attached directly to the sides of the cabinet box.
ADVANTAGES
- Clean, contemporary style
- Faster installation
- May be made of thicker materials
- More accessible and easier to use
CONS
- More expensive
- Available in fewer styles
- Fewer material choices
- May warp when hung on uneven walls