7 Materials for Kitchen Cabinets

BonnieKitchen Renovations

Learn about the different kitchen cabinet material for your new kitchen

New kitchen cabinets are one of the most prolific features of any kitchen renovation. Along with countertops and new fixtures, cabinets are often one of the first things people will notice when they enter your new kitchen. Since so much attention will be paid to these kitchen cabinets, you will likely spend a lot of time thinking about the style and type of cabinet you want to have installed. You may be surprised to learn that in terms of types of cabinet and their materials, there is actually a lot to choose from. To help you identify the ideal material for your new kitchen cabinets, and what they might end up costing you, we have prepared a guide with details about seven different kitchen cabinet materials below.

7 Popular Materials For Kitchen Cabinets

1. Hardwood

Wood is by far the most common material used for cabinets, and it comes in a number of different types. One of the most common kitchen cabinet materials is hardwood, which can range in price depending on the specific wood you use. This is a great option for people looking for a more classic or rustic look, as there is a wide range of wood grains and colours available to choose from. On the negative side, hardwood is often one of the most expensive options for cabinets. There are also structural considerations to make, as hardwood is among the heaviest materials you can use for cabinets. The last thing you want is for a new cabinet to come crashing off the wall. Fortunately, many contractors who deal in kitchen renovations have a lot of experience with and access to different types of hardwood cabinets.

 

2. Plywood

As a lighter material, plywood brings a lot more versatility to the table when it comes to designing and installing kitchen cabinets. In fact, many contractors and cabinet makers say this is the best material for cabinet structures. It is far less expensive compared to hardwood, and it is a lot easier to install compared to virtually any other cabinet material. While some drawbacks have been associated with this material, it really depends on the manufacturer to get the cabinets made with consistency so they look and perform well upon installation.

 

3. Particle Board

Also known as LDF or chipboard, particleboard is made by pressing recycled wood materials together to create a solid wood sheet. These sheets are then sealed with laminate or wood veneer so they look just like real wood upon installation. This material is very light, meaning it is great for upper cabinets. In addition, it is less expensive than even plywood. Before installing particle board cabinets, it is important to know this material is not the best in terms of moisture resistance. You should make sure any particleboard cabinet is installed in an area away from water.

 

4. MDF

Slightly stronger and more durable than LDF is medium density fibreboard or MDF. This material is less durable than plywood, but it is also less expensive to purchase and install. Like particleboard and plywood, MDF is a great lightweight alternative to hardwood. It is also easier to install, as the material performs most like hardwood when being drilled or hung with wood screws. In some cases, MDF is susceptible to sagging over time, however, so if you are in need of storage for heavy items in the kitchen, you may consider plywood or hardwood as an alternative to MDF.

 

5. Wood Veneers

Similar to the way laminate is used for LDF, MDF and plywood cabinets, a wood veneer is an option for any composite material used for kitchen cabinets. Think of it as a thin facade layered over the solid material to give your cabinets a beautiful wood grain finish. The veneer can look just as nice as a real hardwood finish when installed by a professional, and the cabinets themselves are a fraction of the price. This material will require periodic polishing however, or it can become discoloured over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight on a regular basis.

 

6. PVC

In addition to wood and variations on traditional cabinets, poly-vinyl chloride sheets are also used to make kitchen cabinets. This plastic material is a great option for those looking for an alternative to wood. It is completely waterproof and resistant to any sort of invasive insect such as termites. In comparison to the way wood cabinets are sourced and manufactured, PVC is a much more eco-friendly option. If you do select PVC cabinets, you may find certain limitations on colour and design schemes, and poorer quality PVC will discolour over time.

 

7. Metal

For a sleek and modern look, you may find what you want out of stainless steel or aluminum cabinets. Both their unique look and durability make this option stand out from the other cabinet materials we mentioned here. You can also choose from a selection of colours as well as finishes such as etched, patterned or even brushed. As far as maintenance goes, metal cabinets are very easy to clean, and they won’t warp or discolour over time. In some cases, you will need to polish the metal surfaces every now and then to avoid oxidization, especially on aluminum cabinets.

 

If you re interested in discussing the types of kitchen cabinets that will be ideal for your upcoming kitchen renovation, be sure to contact Craftsmen Contracting today. We can offer a great selection of quality kitchen cabinets to choose from, and we are more than ready to handle any and all tasks related to the installation of your new cabinets. Contact us today to get started on transforming your kitchen!