When it comes to cabinetry, Tru cabinets and KraftMaid are two of the most popular brands on the market. Both offer high-quality construction and endless customization options to create your dream kitchen.
But which one is right for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Tru and KraftMaid cabinets across a variety of factors including quality, price, warranty, styles, finishes, ordering process and more. Read on for an in-depth look at how these cabinet lines stack up.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Tru Cabinets | KraftMaid Cabinets |
| Quality & Construction | Solid wood frames, plywood boxes. High quality materials and construction. | Solid wood frames, mix of plywood and particleboard. Well-built with excellent durability. |
| Pricing | Middle to upper price range. Good value for money. | Premium pricing, most expensive options. Select line more budget friendly. |
| Styles & Design Options | Variety of door profiles from Shaker to slab. Wide range of finishes. | Huge array of styles and custom upgrades like lighting and storage solutions. |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty. Transferable. | Limited lifetime warranty. Transferable. |
| Ordering & Lead Times | Order direct online for faster turnaround. Dealers add design help but longer lead times. | Must order through showroom or retailer. Lead times typically 8-12 weeks. |
| Maintenance | Gentle cleaners only. Avoid harsh chemicals. | Use mild cleaners and degreasers sparingly. Dry immediately after cleaning. |
Quality and Construction Comparison
The quality and construction of your cabinets have a big impact on their longevity and functionality in your kitchen. Let’s take a closer look at how Tru and KraftMaid compare in this category:
Tru Cabinets
Tru prides itself on using quality materials and robust construction techniques in all of its cabinetry. Here are some construction details:
- Solid hardwood frames with furniture-grade plywood boxes
- Full extension soft-close drawer glides
- Dovetail joinery on drawers
- 3/4” adjustable shelves
- Hidden 6-way adjustable hinges
Tru cabinets are CARB II certified and meet or exceed all ANSI/KCMA quality standards.
Their solid plywood construction prevents warping or splitting over time.
KraftMaid Cabinets
KraftMaid is known for its durability and quality, with many of its cabinet lines meeting CARB II emission standards. Here are some of its construction specifications:
- Solid hardwood frames and furniture-grade plywood boxes
- Dovetail joinery drawers with soft-close glides
- 3/4” thick adjustable shelves
- Concealed 6-way adjustable hinges
One thing to note is that KraftMaid does use particleboard for its cabinet backs, whereas Tru uses plywood. Particleboard is more prone to expansion and deterioration when exposed to moisture over time.
Comparison
When it comes to quality and construction, Tru and KraftMaid are fairly evenly matched. Both use solid wood frames, plywood boxes (except KraftMaid backs), soft-close hardware and strong joinery techniques. Tru edges ahead slightly with its plywood cabinet backs compared to KraftMaid’s particleboard. But both brands make very durable, well-built cabinetry designed to last.
Pricing and Affordability Comparison
The cost of new kitchen cabinets can vary widely based on materials, construction, customizations and more. Here’s how Tru and KraftMaid compare on pricing:
Tru Cabinets
Tru cabinets are in the middle-to-upper price range for cabinetry. Their products are very high quality, but the solid hardwood frames and plywood boxes do come at a cost.
Some average price ranges for Tru cabinets:
- Stock cabinets: $80 – $200 per linear foot
- Semi-custom: $200 – $350 per linear foot
- Custom: $350+ per linear foot
Tru offers excellent value for money given the quality of construction and materials. They also regularly run sales and promotions that can help lower costs on your kitchen remodel.
KraftMaid Cabinets
KraftMaid is positioned as a premium cabinetry brand, and their prices reflect that. Here are some typical price ranges:
- Stock cabinets: $100 – $300 per linear foot
- Semi-custom: $250 – $450 per linear foot
- Custom: $450+ per linear foot
Within the KraftMaid line, the Select cabinets are the most affordable option.
The Premium and Masterpiece series are progressively more expensive as you move up to solid wood doors and frames.
Comparison
In terms of everyday affordability, Tru cabinets generally have a lower starting price point than KraftMaid. But KraftMaid offers a huge range of products at varying price levels, including more budget-friendly options like their Select line. Tru prices are very competitive for the quality you get.
Style and Design Options
The style and look of your kitchen cabinets impacts the whole aesthetic of the space. Tru and KraftMaid both offer extensive choices for door styles, finishes and customization.
Tru Cabinets Styles
Some of the most popular door styles from Tru include:
- Shaker – classic and clean with a recessed center panel
- Slab – minimalist and modern with no frame or detailing
- Arts & Crafts – horizontal panels and clean lines
- Raised Panel – defined by a solid center panel surrounded by a frame
- Louvered – sloped overlapping strips creating interest
In addition to these door profiles, Tru offers unique options like integrated sink bases, extra height uppers, and accessories like open shelving.
Their stains, paints and glazes allow for bold, modern palettes or traditional muted tones. Distressed and aged finishes are also available to emulate antique styling.
KraftMaid Cabinet Styles
KraftMaid designs include:
- Shaker – versatile style available across multiple lines
- Slab – streamlined flat door adds contemporary edge
- Beaded Inset – grooved detailing and inset door styling
- Arts & Crafts – horizontal panels and sturdy look
- Raised Panel – classic elegance with framed center panel
Designer upgrades like glass door inserts, crowns and lighting rails add further customization. Their paint and stain palettes cover modern grays and whites as well as woodland hues.
Comparison
Tru and KraftMaid offer very comparable styles that run the gamut from traditional to contemporary. Both carry door profiles to match any kitchen aesthetic. KraftMaid edges ahead in total options and unique upgrades like inset cabinetry and integrated lighting rails. But Tru still provides immense design flexibility.
Warranty and Customer Service
The warranties and customer service policies give insight into how strongly a brand stands behind its products. Here is the warranty coverage offered by Tru and KraftMaid:
Tru Cabinet Warranty
Tru offers a limited lifetime warranty on all of its cabinetry. This covers defects in materials and workmanship.
The warranty is transferable to subsequent homeowners.
Coverage includes:
- 5 years – door hinges and drawer glides
- 1 year – shelves, finish, and factory hardware
Tru’s customer service team can help with any warranty claims or construction issues after installation.
KraftMaid Cabinet Warranty
KraftMaid also provides a limited lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship. This remains valid if transferred to a new homeowner.
Warranty periods include:
- 1 year – shelves, accessories, finish
- 5 years – drawer glides
- Lifetime – door hinges
KraftMaid has an extensive network of dealers to assist with any warranty repairs or replacement parts.
Comparison
The warranties offered by Tru and KraftMaid are extremely similar and among the strongest in the industry. The lifetime coverage on cabinet box materials is outstanding. Both also provide several years of coverage for things like hardware and finish. This shows the brands stand behind the quality of their products.
Ordering and Lead Times
The process of ordering and installing new cabinets can vary quite a bit between different manufacturers. Let’s look at what to expect with Tru vs KraftMaid:
Tru Cabinets Ordering
Tru sells its cabinets direct-to-consumer online as well as through exclusive dealers.
Online ordering allows you to:
- Use the kitchen design tool to lay out cabinets
- Choose cabinets, panels, moldings
- Submit your order online
Orders can be delivered within 2-3 weeks. Tru also has select European-style frames and reformed wood panels available for quicker shipping.
For dealer ordering, Tru partners with showrooms across the U.S. Their design experts can help you pick everything out. Lead times range from 4-8 weeks for delivery and installation.
KraftMaid Ordering
KraftMaid sells through third-party kitchen design showrooms and home improvement stores.
To order, you would:
- Work with designer to select products
- Place order through the showroom or retailer
- Wait roughly 8-12 weeks for delivery
KraftMaid does not sell direct online. All orders must go through a dealer.
Comparison
Tru’s direct online ordering provides more convenience, faster shipping times, and the ability to handle the process yourself.
KraftMaid requires working through a showroom, which some homeowners appreciate for the design expertise. But it does mean longer lead times. Both processes have pros and cons.
Maintenance and Care
Caring for your cabinets properly is key to having them look their best for years to come. Here are some tips for maintaining Tru and KraftMaid cabinets:
Cleaning Tru Cabinets
- Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe surface dirt and dust
- For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution
- Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads or cleaners
- Dry immediately with a clean cloth
- Apply beeswax polish every 1-2 years to protect and shine
Cleaning KraftMaid Cabinets
- Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease
- For more heavy-duty cleaning, use a degreasing product rated safe for wood
- Avoid excessive water or moisture to protect cabinet integrity
- Dry with a soft cloth after cleaning
- Reapply protective finishes annually as needed
Comparison
Tru and KraftMaid both require gentle, non-abrasive cleaning methods using damp cloths and mild soap solutions to preserve the wood and finish. KraftMaid does specify that harsher degreasers can be used sparingly if needed. But in general, the care and maintenance are quite similar.
Tru Or KraftMaid: Which Is The Better Cabinet Brand?
So when comparing this head-to-head, which brand comes out on top – Tru or KraftMaid?
While it’s largely a matter of personal preference, here are a few key takeaways:
- Quality and construction are outstanding for both brands. Tru edges ahead very slightly.
- KraftMaid offers more overall style options and custom upgrades.
- Tru is more budget-friendly for the average homeowner.
- Ordering and lead times favor Tru for online convenience and speed.
- Both have excellent warranties and customer service.
- Maintenance requirements are minimal and very similar.
For the best value, Tru makes an excellent choice. Their prices are reasonable given the quality, and online ordering simplifies the process. Style options still allow for great variety.
For limitless customization and premium construction, KraftMaid is hard to beat. Their breadth of selections tailors to any kitchen. If budget is less of a factor, these cabinets deliver.
Ultimately, you can feel confident selecting either brand. Both Tru and KraftMaid make cabinets designed to last a lifetime and beyond. Keep the key differences in mind, and choose the one that best fits your kitchen and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, KraftMaid is widely regarded as a high-end or premium cabinet brand. They are known for excellent quality, robust construction, and high degree of customization. KraftMaid offers cabinetry to meet a range of budgets, but their styles and manufacturing standards are certainly in line with high end.
KraftMaid cabinets are very good in terms of quality, durability, and functionality. Key features that make KraftMaid a top cabinetry choice include:
1. Solid hardwood frames and dovetail drawer boxes
2. Furniture-grade plywood construction
3. Soft-close doors and drawers
4. Lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship
5. Wide array of styles from traditional to contemporary
6. Excellent reputation among kitchen designers and homeowners
While not the most budget-friendly, KraftMaid is a premium brand that makes excellent high-end cabinets. Their attention to detail and quality ensure the cabinets will last for years to come.
With proper care and maintenance, KraftMaid cabinets are designed to last a lifetime. Their solid wood frames and plywood components can easily withstand decades of regular use when kept clean and dry. The soft-close hardware also endures wear and tear better than plain hinges and glides.
Many homeowners report KraftMaid cabinets lasting 30+ years before needing any repairs or replacement. And KraftMaid’s lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship covers any manufacturing defects for as long as you own the cabinets. So you can be confident investing in KraftMaid cabinetry for lasting performance and longevity in your kitchen.
Merillat Masterpiece and KraftMaid are two brands owned by the same parent company, American Woodmark. The Masterpiece line was originally made by Merillat exclusively for The Home Depot. In 2015, Masterpiece merged with KraftMaid and is now part of the KraftMaid portfolio of cabinetry.
Closing Remarks
So KraftMaid and Merillat Masterpiece cabinets share production facilities, design styles, features, warranties, and quality standards. The Masterpiece title is now used to designate KraftMaid’s highest end fully custom line.
So while originally separate brands, Masterpiece and KraftMaid cabinetry are now the same thanks to their common manufacturer. They represent the pinnacle of what KraftMaid offers in luxury kitchen cabinetry.
