What To Expect: Ordering NEXGEN Cabinet Doors From Cutting Edge

Ordering NEXGEN cabinet doors? Learn what to expect, what’s included, and how to avoid project delays with this complete guide.

A kitchen with light brown NEXGEN cabinet doors. Every supplier has different standards for NEXGEN doors.
Image provided by Zak's Home Building Centre, customer

Whether you’re a cabinet maker, contractor, or homeowner, you’re likely here because you need to order NEXGEN cabinet doors. But what can you expect when placing your order? What should be included? What if you don’t get what you need? If your order arrives late, is missing key parts, or doesn’t meet expectations, it can stall your job and damage your reputation.

At Cutting Edge, we’ve manufactured custom cabinet doors for over 20 years. We produced over 8000 NEXGEN cabinet doors last year, helping us to understand what you experience. We know how confusing it can be to order cabinet doors, especially when every supplier has different standards.

In this article, you’ll learn:

NEXGEN Cabinet Doors Are A Cost-Effective Alternative To Wood

NEXGEN™ cabinet doors are a smart alternative to traditional wood doors. They’re made using a thermally-fused laminate (TFL) that’s applied to a strong, stable MDF core. This gives them a wood-like appearance without the cost or maintenance of real wood.

Here’s why cabinet makers, contractors, and homeowners choose NEXGEN:

Feature NEXGEN Doors Traditional Wood Doors
Finish Needed No Yes
Possibility Of Warping Very little Some
Custom Colour Options Limited Wide variety; nearly unlimited
Durability and Consistency High Varies depending on the wood type

In kitchens, NEXGEN doors are often chosen for their durability, easy cleaning, and low maintenance. They’re great for high-traffic homes or rentals where you want a sleek look without the high maintenance.

What To Expect When Ordering NEXGEN Cabinet Doors

Not all NEXGEN doors are created equal. Here’s what you need to watch for when placing your order:

Only Certain Profiles and Colours Are Kept in Stock

Each supplier stocks a limited range of profiles and colours. At Cutting Edge, we focus on the most popular options for quicker turnaround, but other suppliers may have different stock levels.

Tip: Always confirm availability before finalizing a design.

Four NEXGEN cabinet doors in a variety of colours and profiles. Most suppliers have limited options stocked.

Each Profile Has Pre-Defined Stile and Rail Widths

Because NEXGEN doors are machine-made, stile and rail widths are fixed. You won’t be able to customize these measurements like you can with wood doors.

Tip: Ask for the profile guide from your supplier.

Different Suppliers May Have Different Panel Grain Directions

Some manufacturers use vertical grain panels by default, while others use a combination of vertical and horizontal panels. This small detail can cause major issues when doors are installed next to each other.

Tip: Always ask how the grain will run.

NEXGEN Cabinet Doors Do Not Require Finishing

One of the biggest benefits of NEXGEN doors is that they’re pre-finished and ready to install. You don’t need to outsource painting.

NEXGEN Cabinet Doors May Not Come Pre-Drilled for Blum Hinges

Most suppliers do not pre-drill NEXGEN doors for Blum-style hinges. At Cutting Edge, hinge boring is available, but not automatic.

Tip: Confirm hinge boring when you place your order.

NEXGEN Cabinet Doors Have Limited Customization Options

Want angled doors? Or a centre rail? You’re likely out of luck. NEXGEN doors don’t allow for customization due to how they’re manufactured.

Tip: Review customization limits with your supplier before finalizing your design.

Mitred Corners Are Standard, But Not Universal

Most NEXGEN doors come with mitred corners. However, some suppliers also offer cope-and-stick construction, which has a more traditional appearance.

Tip: Confirm the construction method with your supplier.

How To Learn What To Expect When Ordering NEXGEN Cabinet Doors

Even if you’re not buying NEXGEN doors from Cutting Edge, you still need to ask the right questions. Every NEXGEN cabinet door supplier has different standards, offerings, and lead times. Being prepared is the key to avoiding project delays and surprise costs.

Questions to Ask Before Ordering NEXGEN Cabinet Doors

Use this checklist before placing your order:

  1. What profiles and colours are in stock? Not all options are available. Knowing what’s in stock helps you plan your project timelines more accurately.
  2. What are the default stile and rail widths? NEXGEN door styles have a set width that cannot be customized.
  3. Is the panel grain direction vertical or horizontal? The grain direction affects the aesthetic of the kitchen. Some suppliers offer both options, but have a default that applies.
  4. Are hinge holes pre-drilled? If so, for which hinge type? Not all NEXGEN cabinet doors come pre-drilled. Make sure the drilling pattern is compatible to avoid extra work.
  5. Are angled or custom doors available? Most NEXGEN doors are limited in shape and custom options. If your design includes corner cabinets or angled runs, this could restrict your layout.
  6. What is the lead time for delivery? Even stock items can have varying lead times based on demand. Understanding when to expect delivery helps you schedule installation.
  7. What construction method is standard – mitred or cope and stick? While mitred corners are common, some suppliers offer alternative methods. The construction method affects the appearance and structural strength.
  8. Is there a clear return or warranty policy? Things can go wrong – incorrect sizes, damage in transit, or miscommunication. Knowing your options protects your investment and ensures peace of mind.

Ordering NEXGEN cabinet doors should feel simple, not stressful. But with every supplier offering a slightly different set of standards, asking the right questions early on is your best defence against surprises that can hold up your project.

Whether you’re placing your first NEXGEN order or refining your process after years of experience, this list helps you stay in control. It also gives you the confidence to trust your supplier.

A kitchen with dark brown NEXGEN cabinet doors. NEXGEN cabinet doors are cost-effective and durable.
Image provided by Zak's Home Building Centre, customer

Learn How To Price Out NEXGEN Cabinet Doors Online

Now that you know what to expect when ordering NEXGEN cabinet doors, you’re in a better position to avoid delays, confusion, and costly mistakes. If you’ve dealt with late deliveries, missing hinge holes, or unclear product specs before, you know how fast that can stall your project and damage your reputation. Asking the right questions early helps you stay in control and keep your jobs running smoothly.

You can use the checklist in this article every time you place an order. Now, to make your job even easier, learn how to price out your NEXGEN cabinet doors online. We’ve helped thousands of contractors get their doors on time, built right, and backed by real support.

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