Framed vs Frameless Cabinets: Which One Is Best for Your Kitchen?

The kitchen is the heart of your home, and cabinetry is its backbone. There are plenty of cabinet options, but one question always arises: Should you get cabinets with or without frames? Framed and frameless cabinets are two different cabinet types. 

Though they may sound like a small detail, many features distinguish these two cabinet types. The storage capacity, design, and construction are different for both these cabinets. You need to carefully choose between frameless and framed cabinets. This decision goes far beyond aesthetics. It affects how much usable space you’ll have, how easily your cabinets open and close, how modern or traditional your kitchen looks, and how the installation process plays out. It even plays a role in long-term durability and your renovation budget.

Let’s explore what sets these two popular cabinet styles apart and which one might be the best fit for your space.

Framed vs Frameless Cabinets: Understanding the Difference

The ultimate difference lies in their construction. With a wooden frame outlining the front, framed cabinets gain added strength and a classic design element. The doors and drawers are mounted to this frame, which is very reliable. Frameless cabinets remove the wood frame and now doors attach directly to the cabinet box, which consists of higher-quality materials, resulting in a sleek, full-access design, ideal for modern kitchens. Frameless cabinet doors offer more storage by a few centimeters, allowing you to store items effectively. 

Cost

Frameless cabinets are usually found at a higher price point. The reason is due to their complex construction and the usage of high-quality materials. Frameless cabinets also come with higher installation costs, while framed cabinets tend to be more affordable thanks to their use of readily available and cost-effective materials. Also, the installation is hassle-free because it's easier and cheaper to install these. Framed cabinets check the budget range perfectly.

Durability

Framed cabinets take the lead in this category. These are more durable and stronger primarily because of their face frame, which provides more support in the long run. The face frame also helps in keeping the doors aligned while also protecting them from getting damaged over time. Frameless cabinets are also durable as their material is high quality, but in comparison, in the long term, wear and tear might take place. That's why framed cabinets win in supporting the weight of daily hardware.

Installation

The installation of framed cabinets is easier as they can handle small measurement mistakes more easily and can be done in a short period of time. On the other hand, a professional might be hired to install frameless cabinets, as it requires highly accurate measurements and a careful installation process, which costs way more than framed cabinets. A single mistake can be very tough to identify and then correct. As every piece is unique.

Storage

Frameless Cabinets offer a wider look and maximize storage space while allowing complete access to the interior. This gives the interior a beautiful modern look. Due to the added face frame, framed cabinets take up space, which does not allow for that sleek, clean, and open look to the interior. Meaning, frameless cabinets provide sleek efficiency, while framed cabinets offer tradition with long-lasting support. Frameless cabinets take the lead in this.

Maintenance

In the short term, framed cabinets are more difficult to maintain. Since the cleaning is not limited only to the outside of the frame, but also inside the face frame. The dust and dirt can crawl inside frames, which is difficult to take out. In the long run, frameless cabinets might start to show wear around the surface as there's no face frame or added protection to secure them from damage. Frameless cabinets are easier to maintain in the short run, while framed cabinets are easier to maintain in the long run.

Door & Hardware Styles

Framed cabinets are more compatible with both overlay and inset door styles, offering tremendous flexibility in design choices. Classical hardware such as knobs and cabinet pulls complement the segmented appearance beautifully. On the other hand,

frameless cabinets typically feature full-overlay doors. The frameless cabinet doors cover the entire cabinet box. While this limits some traditional door styles, it opens up the possibilities for sleek, handle-free designs and modern hardware solutions.

Flexibility

When the topic is flexibility in customization, framed cabinets take the lead. The materials of the frame are very common and can be contrasted easily. Flexibility in everyday chaos is also handled better by framed kitchen cabinets, as their protective frame protects their surface. The only downside with this is that the frame has to be cleaned from time to time. Frameless kitchen cabinets might not offer that level of satisfaction of customization, but they make up with the charm that they provide. For example, frameless inset kitchen cabinets offer a neat and classy look to the interior, which does not require much maintenance in the short run.

Longevity

Frameless cabinets, though feature higher quality materials, might suffer long-term damage. The reason for the timely wear is that these cabinets have no protective seal attached to them. This is the reason for framed longevity, as its wood frame protects it in the long run. Even if these cabinets are damaged, the repair is simple and less costly. While repairing Frameless cabinets, it seems like a tough task because exact measurements are required, which takes up more time and is more costly.

Home Value

If you're searching specifically for resale, frameless cabinets will give you a slight advantage. The main reason for that is the way they appeal to the current market preference for modern, clean aesthetics while also maximizing storage space. Framed cabinets provide long-term durability and fit well in classical designs. These cabinets can also increase the value if the customer is seeking something more traditional. However, the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and how well they align with your home's overall style should be your main preference. 

Framed vs Frameless Cabinets-Final Thoughts

The decision is not to choose between framed and frameless cabinets. Rather, this is a reflection of your preferences for how you want to shape your home. Is your preference durability, hassle-free installation, cheaper material, and long-term reliability, which gives your home a traditional look? Or you can choose a true luxurious look that will brighten your interior, giving a clean and lasting look that will also increase your home value through frameless kitchen cabinets. Whatever you choose, choose according to your preference and budget, as these cabinets will be the way of style that represents your choice and gives an impression of what you seek. In conclusion, the best choice is the one that aligns with and matches your preference and lifestyle.

If you are still unsure, feel free to contact us at Install Kitch, talk to our design experts, and get started on your kitchen remodeling in NYC journey today!

Also Read: Why Grey Kitchen Cabinets are First Choice for Modern Homes