Expert: Jamie Yocono - 3/9/2005

Question
jamie,
I am an ameteur woodworkerand am in need of a custom wall to wall and ceiling to ceiling entertainment center.  I am trying to incorporate a 55in tv, related a/v equip, a bookcase, and an existing fireplace.  In order to save costs and give me the ability to fill nailholes and hide mistakes I plan to use paint grade mdf.  Im fairly confident I can handle the base cabinet as well as the upper hutch if pointed in the right direction. i am lost however on the doors.  Because the height of the base I will need custom size doors.  Please let me know if you have sources of info to send me in the right direction

Answer
Hi Tony,

I don't know where you are located, but depending what coast you live near, I can recommend two different custom door companies.

If you're closer to the East coast, you might want to try MapleCraft USA, which is located in Pennsylvania. Their toll free number is 1-800-756-8077 and they now have a website that is quite good for determining what you need. Try- www.maplecraftusa.com to see their site.

I have been buying MapleCraft's doors for many years, and I'm quite impressed. Their prices are reasonable, the quality is high, and the staff is quite nice. I highly recommend their doors!

Now if you're on the West coast, you can try CalDoor at www.caldoor.com. I have not used their products, but they have a similar product line to what MapleCraft sells. Many lumberyards around here (Nevada) sell their doors and it seems many west coast cabinet makers use their doors.

Just a thought, but MapleCraft ships anywhere in the US, and their shipping is reasonable. I just placed 2 orders from them, even though I have moved my cabinet shop to Nevada, which is much closer to the Cal Door factory. I would rather order my doors from a company that I know and trust.

That's not to say that Cal Doors are bad, I just have no history with them.

Last thing- I just learned that Rockler Woodworking Stores are now selling custom doors. I did look at their site and punched in a sample order, to check out their prices. I found them to be high, but you might have better luck with them. Try www.rockler.com to see their custom door information.

Good luck, I hope this helps. Feel free to write back with any other questions you might have after reading this.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
www.wooditis.com
Las Vegas, NV