5 Things Every Triangle NC Contractor Should Know
1. Lead Time Is Everything — And Most Companies Lie About It
The standard excuse in the cabinet industry is 'we're running 8–12 weeks right now.' That might be fine for a homeowner with flexibility, but it's a project killer when you have a closing date. Before you place any order, get the lead time in writing — and make sure it covers design-to-delivery, not just fabrication.
At Do It Wise, our commitment is 40 days from deposit to installation complete. That's the whole process — design finalization, fabrication, and professional installation. We put it in writing.
2. Plywood vs. Particle Board Is a Warranty Claim Waiting to Happen
Particle board boxes are standard in most mid-range and budget cabinet lines. They're cheaper to manufacture and look fine at installation. They also absorb moisture, swell, and fail — especially near sinks and dishwashers.
Real plywood construction costs marginally more per linear foot but eliminates an entire category of callbacks and warranty claims. Ask your cabinet supplier specifically: 'Are the boxes plywood or particle board?' At Do It Wise, every box is 100% American-made plywood. Full stop.
3. Measure Twice, Order Once — But Also Measure After Framing
Cabinet orders placed from architectural drawings frequently don't match field conditions after framing — walls aren't square, ceiling heights vary, window placements shift. Best practice: take cabinet measurements after framing is complete and before drywall is hung.
We offer in-field measuring for all of our contractor projects. Our project manager takes measurements directly at the jobsite — it's included in our trade pricing because it eliminates the problems that cost everyone money.
4. Volume Pricing Requires a Relationship, Not Just a Quote
If you're building multiple homes or managing repeat remodels, you should be getting volume pricing from your cabinet supplier. At Do It Wise, our Builder Partner Program starts at $355 per linear foot for 50+ unit projects. Below that threshold, we still offer trade pricing that reflects the ongoing relationship.
Our referral program is also worth knowing about: designers, realtors, and GCs who refer projects earn 10% of the deposit, paid when the client signs. One of the most competitive referral structures in the Triangle market.
5. Your Cabinet Partner's Reputation Becomes Your Reputation
When a client calls you about the cabinets — and they will — it doesn't matter whose name is on the box. You're the GC. You're responsible. Which means your cabinet supplier's reliability, quality, and communication become yours in the client's mind.
Choose a partner who answers the phone. Who knows the project. Who shows up when they say they will and leaves the site clean. That's the standard we hold ourselves to at Do It Wise. It's why contractors who work with us once tend to call back.
Ready to Talk Trade Pricing for Your Next Triangle Project?
We work with builders and GCs across Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Durham, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, and all of Wake County. Reach our commercial contracts team at Info@doitwisecabinetry.com or call (919) 283-1912.
40-day install guarantee. Real plywood. Trade pricing. No drama.
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Wondering what your kitchen would actually cost? We'll come to you, measure your space, and build a full 3D design at no charge. No pressure — just real numbers and a vision you can get excited about.