What To Expect: Ordering Raised Panel Cabinet Doors
Ordering raised panel cabinet doors? Learn what to expect, what’s included, and how to avoid project delays with this complete guide.
Whether you’re a cabinet maker, contractor, or homeowner, you’re here because you need to order raised panel cabinet doors. But what exactly should you expect when you place that order? What if the doors don’t arrive with the right thickness, or your supplier didn’t add a centre rail on a tall door? Getting doors that don’t meet your project needs can delay your work, hurt your reputation, and cost you more time and money.
At Cutting Edge, we’ve built custom cabinet doors for over 20 years. Raised panel cabinet doors are a core part of what we do, and we produce hundreds every month. We’ve learned that no two suppliers do things the same way, which is why it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting before you click “Order.”
In this article, you’ll learn:
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Are A Traditional Option
Raised panel cabinet doors have been around for centuries. They’re best known for their timeless, traditional look. You’ve likely seen them in kitchens with a classic or formal feel. They’re defined by a solid centre panel that’s flush with the surrounding frame, usually shaped with curved or bevelled profiles.
These doors work well in kitchens, bathrooms, and built-in cabinets where you want a bit of visual depth. They can be made from many types of wood, including Maple, Oak, Cherry, and Birch. Raised panel doors can also be painted or stained.
While newer styles such as flat panel or slab doors have become popular, raised panel doors still appeal to homeowners who want warmth, texture, and detail. They also add perceived value to cabinetry, which makes them a smart choice for premium projects.
What To Expect When Ordering Raised Panel Cabinet Doors
But before you place your order, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t included. At Cutting Edge, here’s what you can expect when you order raised panel cabinet doors from us:
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Are Solid Wood
The centre panel in our raised panel doors is always solid wood. We do not use plywood or veneers unless it’s requested. Some suppliers offer faux raised panels made with MDF or veneer to reduce costs. If you’re unsure, always ask your supplier if the centre panel is solid.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Ship Within 10–15 Working Days
Standard orders ship in 10–15 working days. However, the lead time is longer if you choose finishing or custom options. This range doesn’t include shipping time, so plan your project schedule accordingly.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Are Sanded And Ready To Finish
We sand all doors to 180 grit and leave edges sharp. This gives you the flexibility to apply your own finish or route additional edge details. However, we always recommend you perform a quick inspection and scuff sand before finishing your cabinet doors.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Are ¾” Thick
The default thickness for cabinet doors is ¾”. However, we can produce doors in other thicknesses if needed. This flexibility allows you to match your doors with existing cabinetry or achieve a specific design look.
Wide Or Tall Raised Panel Doors Have Multiple Panels
To prevent warping and improve stability, we add centre rails to doors 43” and taller. Centre rails help the door stay true over time.
We don’t add centre stiles to wide doors unless you request or the size of the door requires it.
We can’t offer warranty against warp or twist if your door is 30”+ wide or 43”+ high and only has a single centre panel.
Raised Panel Doors Do Not Have Arched Top Rails (Unless Requested)
By default, raised panel doors have straight top rails. However, arched tops or cathedral-style doors are available, too.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Have 2 ¼” Stiles And Rails
The standard stile and rail width for raised panel doors is 2 ¼”. Doors narrower than 8″ may have reduced side stiles if needed. However, we won’t reduce stiles below 1 ¾” unless requested to maintain compatibility with hinges. Drawer fronts under 7” high have reduced top and bottom rails – 1 ½”.
Now, mitred profiles may have different default frame widths.
Wood Raised Panel Doors Use Standard Grade Material
Unless you request otherwise, we use standard grade wood for raised panel orders. Standard grade material is the best combination of quality and price. You can upgrade to select grade for a clearer appearance or choose builder grade if price is your top priority.
You’ll Need To Approve And Pay For Your Order
Before your raised panel doors go into production, you’ll receive a confirmation to approve, including your sizes, profiles, and materials. Once you confirm and pay, we’ll start building your order. Want to know more? Here’s what happens after you submit your cabinet door order.
How To Learn What To Expect When Ordering Raised Panel Cabinet Doors
If you’re ordering raised panel cabinet doors, whether from Cutting Edge or another cabinet door supplier, there are a few key questions you should always ask to avoid surprises.
Here’s a checklist to guide your conversation with any supplier:
- Is the centre panel solid wood, or is it veneered?
- What is the standard lead time?
- Are the doors sanded and ready to finish?
- What thickness are the doors?
- Will wide or tall doors include extra rails or stiles?
- What stile and rail widths are standard?
- Are there options for arched or custom top rails?
- What wood grade is used by default?
- Do you need to approve your order before production begins?
- Are there additional charges for custom work?
Asking these questions helps you set clearer expectations and avoid delays or problems caused by misunderstandings and assumptions. At the end of the day, you and your supplier both want your order to go smoothly, and a conversation about the details will help you complete your projects on time.
Learn How To Price Out Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Online
After struggling with unclear specs or missing information, you’ve felt the stress of rework, delays, and disappointed customers. Now that Cutting Edge has empowered you to understand what to expect when ordering raised panel cabinet doors, it’s time to take your next step with confidence.
Learn how to price out your raised panel cabinet doors online so you can move forward without guesswork.
