When it comes to a kitchen or bathroom remodel, quality cabinets are one of the most important investments you can make. Well-built cabinetry not only enhances your home’s style but also lasts 20+ years with proper care. At River City Construction & Design, we help Austin homeowners select custom cabinets that combine durability, functionality, and high-end design.

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom upgrade, or custom ADU build, here’s how to recognize quality cabinetry and avoid costly mistakes.

Cabinet Materials Matter

The materials your cabinets are made from will determine how long they last, how well they perform, and how they handle Texas humidity and daily use.

Plywood Construction (Best Option)

• Made with cross-layered wood for strength and moisture resistance.
• Handles heavy loads over long periods, perfect for dishes and cookware.
• Ideal for areas around sinks and faucets where moisture exposure is high.

Particleboard / MDF (Budget Option)

• Also known as engineered wood, MDF, hardboard, or furniture board.
• Made by pressing wood particles together with glue under high heat.
• Drawbacks: Susceptible to moisture damage, sagging, and impact damage.

Pro Tip: For long-lasting cabinetry, choose all-plywood construction, it’s worth the investment.

Cabinet Back Panels & Structural Strength

Strong backs keep your cabinets square, stable, and secure to the wall.

Full-Height Plywood Back (Best Option)

• At least 3/8-inch thick all-plywood construction.
• Makes it easier to secure cabinets to studs.
• Maintains structure even after making plumbing or electrical cuts.

Thin Panels & Brackets (Risky Option)

• 1/8- to 1/4-inch particleboard backs or “picture-frame” construction.
• Require extra reinforcement and can warp or fail over time.

Hardware and Hinges - The Hidden Quality Indicators

Even beautiful cabinets can fail if they have cheap hardware.

Soft-Close, 6-Way Adjustable Hinges (Best Option)

• Allows adjustments up-down, left-right, and in-out.
• Handles seasonal wood expansion and contraction.
• Provides a silent, luxury feel and protects doors from slamming.

Low-End Hinges (Avoid)

• Often 4-way adjustable only.
• Less durable and may not carry a lifetime warranty.

Drawer Construction and Glide Systems

Your drawers take daily abuse, choose construction that lasts decades.

Undermount, Soft-Close Steel Glides (Best Option)

• Mounted under the drawer box for full access.
• Ball-bearing steel glides rated for heavy loads (90 lbs).
• Smooth and nearly silent.

Side-Mount or Epoxy Glides (Budget Option)

• Less durable and can reduce drawer width.
• Leave up to 25% of the drawer inaccessible.

Hardwood Dovetail Drawer Boxes (Best Option)

• 5/8-inch+ thick solid maple or birch sides.
• Dovetail joints for superior strength.
• Drawer bottoms fully captured in dado joints and glued for longevity.

Construction Details That Make Cabinets Last

I-Beam Construction

• 1/2-inch stretchers lock the box square during shipping and installation.
• Prevents long-term sagging or warping.

Melamine Interior

• Moisture- and stain-resistant, wipes clean easily.
• Ideal for kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms.

Face Frames

• Provide a solid hardwood base for hinges and glides.
• Keep the cabinet square and stable during transport and installation.

What to Look for When Buying Cabinets in 2025

When choosing cabinetry for your Austin remodel or new custom home, prioritize:

• Factory-built and fully assembled for accuracy and durability.
• Customizable options for layouts, finishes, and storage features.
• Lifetime warranties and industry certifications.
• Professional installation for a perfect fit.

Partner with River City Construction & Design

At River City Construction & Design, we help clients select premium cabinetry for:

• Custom home builds and luxury remodels
• Kitchen and bathroom renovations
• ADUs, casitas, and home additions

We source only the highest-quality materials and provide expert installation for a flawless finish.

📞 Call 512-470-4439 or Contact Us Online to start designing your dream kitchen or bathroom today.

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