Standard Specs: Raised Panel Cabinet Doors From Cutting Edge
Learn the standard specs for raised panel cabinet doors so you can avoid delays, reduce mistakes, and finish your projects on time.
It can be risky to trust your supplier to deliver raised panel cabinet doors to your expectations. What if the panel isn’t actually solid wood? What if the finish isn’t quite right, or the door warps because of the wrong size? Whether you’re a cabinet maker, contractor, or homeowner, problems like these cost time, money, and even your reputation. If you’re not 100% clear on what the standard specifications are, you could face project delays, angry clients, and expensive do-overs.
At Cutting Edge, we’ve worked with thousands of customers over the past 20+ years who needed consistent, clear, and reliable specs for raised panel cabinet doors. We believe confusion, missed expectations, or faulty communication shouldn’t hold back your project. That’s why we provide standardized specifications you can count on.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The standard specifications for raised panel cabinet doors
- When those specs apply, and when they don’t
- Why it’s worth understanding these standards upfront
Let’s dive into the details and make sure you know what to expect.
What Are the Standard Specifications for Raised Panel Cabinet Doors?
Standard specs are the foundation for successful projects. These are the default settings we use at Cutting Edge unless you request something different. Each standard ensures your doors are the best combination of quality, speed, and price.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Are Solid Wood
At Cutting Edge, we use solid wood centre panels in our raised panel doors. The entire panel is wood, not veneer or plywood.
Why does this matter?
- Better durability: Solid wood lasts longer and resists damage better than layered materials.
- Superior finish: Stained finishes are more even and consistent.
Higher perceived value: Solid wood speaks quality to your clients and customers.
Some suppliers offer a “faux” raised panel door, where they glue a thin wood veneer onto an MDF or plywood core. This method reduces the cost and may look similar, but it doesn't perform the same over time.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Arrive Raw, Ready to Finish
When your doors arrive, they are sanded to 180 grit and left raw (unfinished). This gives you control over the finishing.
However, you should always do a quick inspection and a scuff sand before finishing to remove any handling marks or dust.
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Are ¾” Thick
¾” is the standard thickness for all raised panel doors. This thickness is the industry standard because it is the best balance between strength, durability, and compatibility.
The Raised Centre Panel Is Flush With the Frame
Most raised panel doors have the top of the centre panel flush with the top of the door frame. However, there are some exceptions. The following panel profiles are recessed by design:
- S
- Most variations of the S panel
- G
- HA
Wide Or Tall Raised Panel Doors May Have Multiple Panels
Wood moves. When cabinet doors are too wide or too tall, they become more likely to twist, bow, or crack.
That’s why we apply the following reinforcements:
- Over 43” tall? We’ll add a centre rail to improve stability.
- Over 30” wide? We recommend adding a centre stile for increased stability.
If you choose to maintain the single-panel look on a door 43”+ tall or 30”+ wide, we void the warranty against warp or twist.
| Door Size | Standard | Warranty Against Warp And Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 43” tall | Single panel | Full warranty |
| 43” or taller | Add centre rail automatically | Full warranty |
| Up to 30" wide | Single panel | Full warranty |
| 30” or wider | Recommend adding centre stile | Full warranty if you add a centre stile |
Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Have Square Frames
Standard raised panel doors have square frames, with straight top and bottom rails. This look is consistent with modern cabinet styles.
However, arched rails are available on request.
Raised Panel Doors Come With 2 ¼” Stiles and Rails
By default, your raised panel doors will have 2 ¼” wide stiles and rails, giving the frame a balanced, sturdy appearance.
However, we automatically reduce the stiles and rails on small doors and drawer fronts.
- Doors under 8” wide have reduced left and right stiles to ensure we can safely build the door. However, we will ensure your reduced stiles remain compatible with hinges.
- Drawer fronts under 7” high come with 1 ½” top and bottom rails to maintain compatibility with hardware.
One more thing to keep in mind – mitred profiles may have different default stile and rail widths, so be sure to confirm if you’re unsure.
Wood Raised Panel Doors Use Standard Grade Material
We use standard grade wood unless you request otherwise. This grade is the best blend of price, quality, and appearance.
However, you can change the wood grade upon request:
- Select grade wood has better colour consistency and a higher price. It is best for orders with a light stain, clear lacquer or whitewash finish.
- Builder grade wood has more colour variation and mineral streaks. It’s great for orders with a dark stained finish.
When in doubt, tell us what finish you’re applying, and we’ll help you make the best choice.
When Standard Specifications for Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Apply
Our standards apply to all orders unless you override them. This keeps things simple, consistent, and easy to quote.
If you need something unique, let us know when ordering. Whether it’s a custom profile, wood grade, or stile width, we’ll confirm your specs before building. You stay in control, and we’ll make sure everything is clear.
If you’re ever unsure what’s standard or custom, ask. We’re here to guide you through the entire process from start to finish.
Now you might wonder, if that’s the case, then why do you need to know the standards?
Why You Should Understand Standards For Raised Panel Cabinet Doors
Knowing the standards helps you plan, quote, and build with confidence. You’ll avoid delays, miscommunication, and unexpected product issues, saving time and protecting your reputation.
When you know what to expect, you can keep your projects moving and set clear expectations with your team and clients. There won’t be any awkward surprises when the doors arrive.
We believe ordering quality cabinet doors should be easy. That’s why we’re upfront about our specs and ready to help if you need something custom. When you understand the details, you deliver better results.
Learn How To Price Out Raised Panel Cabinet Doors Online
Now that you understand the standard specifications for raised panel cabinet doors, you can order with confidence. You’ve seen how the details matter, from wood grade and panel thickness to stile width and structural reinforcements. These aren’t just specs; they’re the foundation of a smooth project and a happy client.
You’ve worked too hard to let unclear expectations derail your timeline or your reputation. At Cutting Edge, we’re here to make the process easy, predictable, and professional. Your next step is to learn how to price out raised panel cabinet doors online and take control of your next project with clarity and confidence.
