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brian_lichtman85

Omega vs. Starmark Cabinets

9 years ago

I hope this isn't a redundant post. I haven't seen in recent re-hashes of cabinet reviews for these brands except for posts a few years old and I know quality changes over time.

My family is doing a big construction project including remodel of the kitchen and we quotedBrookhaven(my parents used) which came out expensive @35K. We also quoted Starmark through Costco's Tuscan Hills and Omega through a local company in California. Both came out about even in cost (~25K) and seem about comparable in quality. We have a toddler and another baby on the way, so we want something that can hold up to kids. We're going to be doing grey lowers/white uppers with no glazing. I've seen some very scary stories of cabinets from these companies being delivered broken, etc. and we don't have a lot of time in the schedule to deal with 6 month delays for parts and arguing. I'm also nervous about the Tuscan Hills online only service. Can someone give recommendations on either of these brands? Do damaged part orders purely depend on the KD you use?

Comments (5)

  • 9 years ago

    Hello Brian, I have Omega in my kitchen and 3 baths and Kraftmaid in my laundry, extra pantry workroom. I do have glazing and all my kids are grown so I can't vouch for kid toughness but we do use the kitchen everyday. It does not get pampered. My cabinets were delivered a full 2 months before we were ready for installation. It's not like you open and inspect every box as it is delivered. But they know that so IF something was not quite right, then they would rectify the problem. Also they pack each cabinet with all sorts of hard cardboard corner supports and pallet frames. Just breaking down all the boxes was a job in of itself.

    During installation we needed extra trim pieces. They were shipped to us very quickly. We had no issues with things being broken or damaged at all.

    I think the KD we used is one of their better vendors. That could make a difference, I suppose. I think it best that you make this decision where you are comfortable. I doesn't take too much searching to find horror stories on every option for your renovation. Just look at the faucet threads! The stories can be paralyzingly. Anyway, I think the company has good quality standards and stands behind their product. I would think your KD could put to rest any of your hesitations. Good luck on your renovation and new baby.

  • 9 years ago

    I would pretty much ditto everything Meyer said about Omega (which we have in our bathrooms and laundry room). The company is really good about replacements due to damage. I even replaced a few door fronts due to aesthetics. But this was solely dependent on my KD as she was the one who had to vouch for me on aesthetics. So regardless of which company you choose be sure to query your KD on any and everything that could go wrong and make sure they will look out for your best interest. Good luck on your project!

  • 9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I have Omega. I need to call them. Our painted finish isn't holding up well. We've had them installed since 2012.

  • 9 years ago

    I purchased used omega cabinets and they seemed to be excellent quality, and are still beautiful following their installation in my kitchen. There have been changes in the type of VOCs that can be used in the finishes. It may be that the experience of anyone of 10 or 20 years ago will not really shed light on what your experience is likely to be for a cabinet purchased today because of the changes in the law on VOCs

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Hello Brian,

    Thank you for your interest in our cabinetry. We want the chance to earn your business and answer a few of your questions. Foremost, the replacement of damaged parts and pieces will take the same amount of time no matter where you order cabinetry from. Whether you order online or through a local dealer doesn't matter, the incidence of damage isn't tied to the order source. When a member reports any issues with their cabinetry we act immediately to create resolution.

    I don't want you to worry about a six month kitchen nightmare, as our parts and pieces orders ship within 2 weeks of order. One thing I would like to stress, regardless of whether you choose us or another dealer, is to allow enough time in your schedule to not only replace a piece or two in the case of damage, but time for the cabinetry to acclimate to your home before installing. Especially now, as the winter is upon us, wood cabinetry needs to breathe the air in your home for at least 3 days before being installed.

    When it comes to choosing a cabinetry vendor, you should go with the company that makes you feel most comfortable. Many local dealers have excellent reputations. Like any line of business, of course, some do not. Our service is backed by Costco. As a Costco vendor, we are committed above all else to Member satisfaction. If something is not right, we make it right. Even in the case where you might have made a mistake - your contractor cut the wrong molding or you didn't know about some piping behind a wall - we are here to work with you to resolve the issue. And of course, if something is not right - an item is damaged, the finish is not to your liking, or any other such case - we will replace that item, no questions asked.

    Our philosophy is to provide the best possible product, at the best possible price, with the best possible service. Our online business model allows us to provide these things to Costco members nationwide. I understand your trepidation at ordering online. We have pleasantly parted ways with many potential customers who felt the same. However, we have delivered thousands of beautiful cabinetry projects to Costco Members across this great country, and we would be delighted to bring the same care, commitment and craftsmanship to your home as well.