Are you looking to remodel your kitchen cabinets? Do you want the best and most durable materials, but are unsure which will suit your needs? Read on to discover the various materials that you should avoid when redoing your kitchen cabinets:
Cardboard
Cardboard is not a durable or waterproof material, and if moisture finds its way into your cabinets, the cardboard will begin to swell or break down. This material is also not fire retardant, so a kitchen fire could rapidly ruin your cabinets and cause extensive damage. When exposed to sudden temperature fluctuations (from turning on the oven), cardboard can become brittle and crumble apart. Cardboard with polished finishes is more likely to experience these issues than raw, unfinished cardboard.
In short, cardboard cabinets may be inexpensive to purchase but will likely require frequent replacement due to wear and tear over time. They also lack in durability when compared to other cabinet materials such as MDF, plywood, solid wood, or laminate which make them an unsuitable option for kitchen cabinet construction.
Particle Board
Particle board is a very common material found in kitchen cabinets, but it is not an ideal option for a kitchen remodel. Particle board is a composite material made from wood chips or sawdust that has been glued together and compressed into flat boards. It is cheaper compared to plywood, which makes it attractive to buyers seeking an inexpensive solution for their kitchen remodel.
However, particleboard has several drawbacks that make it a poor choice for your kitchen cabinetry. First off, its composition can make it susceptible to moisture damage and warping. The glue that binds its components together can also break down over time due to water exposure or high heat, causing the surface of the board to chip and flake off. Furthermore, this type of material gives off harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) as its glue breaks down over time, which may worsen indoor air quality if left unchecked. Additionally, particle board cabinets tend to be heavier than those made out of plywood or other materials such as metal or plastic laminate. This extra weight often requires additional structural support in order for the cabinets to hang properly and safely on your walls—increasing the overall cost of your remodeling project significantly.
MDF (Medium-density Fiberboard)
Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is a composite material made up of wood fibers glued together using resin and pressure. It has become a popular option for kitchen cabinetry, due to its uniformity, durability, and affordability. However, there are some drawbacks to MDF that should be considered before choosing it as the material for your kitchen remodeling project.
MDF is much more susceptible to moisture damage than other materials such as wood or metal. Since kitchen cabinets are exposed to high levels of moisture on a daily basis due to cooking and cleaning activities, this can cause warping and buckling over time. In addition, since MDF is composed of tiny wood fibers that are glued together rather than solid wood planks like real cabinets are made of, it can be difficult to refinish or repair when it becomes damaged.
Another point to consider is the environmental impact that using MDF as your cabinet material will have; the production process involves glues that contain formaldehyde toxins as well as heavy metals and chemicals that can off-gas into your home over time which may be hazardous for you and your family’s health.
Additionally, MDF does not provide good insulation for sound reduction in comparison with other materials meaning you may experience increased noise levels in your home after installing this type of cabinetry.
Laminate
Laminate is a thin layer of synthetic material that is attached to a base. Often seen in countertops, laminate is also commonly used for the doors of kitchen cabinets. This type of material may be inexpensive, but it also doesn’t last very long and can quickly become worn out after just a few years. It’s not resistant to heat and moisture damage and can quickly chip or crack as time passes.
These issues have led many homeowners to avoid laminate as an option for their kitchen cabinets when they are remodeling their kitchens. Additionally, laminate lacks the look or feel of solid wood and may fade or discolor over time, making it difficult to match your existing cabinetry if you later decide to replace part of it.
Furthermore, there have been reports of formaldehyde emissions from some laminates and other composite materials, which can lead to health problems such as asthma attack triggers or skin irritation among other risks. While this is uncommon in higher-quality laminates, it’s something worth considering when looking for new material for your kitchen cabinet doors.
Vinyl
Vinyl is one of the more common kitchen cabinet materials, as it is inexpensive and easy to clean. However, this material is also one of the least durable, making it a bad choice for high-traffic areas. It can easily dent and scratch, leading to fading and discoloration over time.
Additionally, vinyl can be highly susceptible to damage from exposure to other kitchen essentials such as heat, steam or direct contact with water. This material is also difficult to refinish; any repair attempts may make the cabinets look worse than before you attempted to fix them.
If you are considering a remodel of your kitchen cabinets, it’s best to avoid vinyl altogether.
Glass
When remodeling your kitchen, choosing the right cabinetry material is essential in ensuring your cabinets have a long lifespan. While there are many materials that can be used for cabinetry such as wood, stainless steel, laminates, and glass, it is best to be aware of those options that may look nice aesthetically but in practice prove to be difficult to remain structurally sound and clean over a longer period.
Glass is one such material to avoid. While it looks elegant and can make for an impressive design feature for modern kitchens, it can scratch easily and attract fingerprints and smudges that are difficult to remove without any special cleaning products.
It can also present a bigger challenge when it comes to the daily cleaning of grease that accumulates in the kitchen from food preparation. Furthermore, glass provides no protection for stored items like wood does by virtue of its solid frame – thus making items inside more prone to dust and heat damage.
Unsealed Natural Wood
While unsealed natural wood can add robust texture and create a unique visual appearance, it can also end up in disaster. Unsealed wood exposed to humidity and moisture will swell, warp, and crack; making your cabinets very unstable. If the material is not sanded or sealed correctly it is less able to stand up to wear and tear of everyday use.
While wood sealed with a finish or laminate is mostly water resistant, no kitchen cabinet material is completely impervious to the effects of humidity. Therefore, it is critical that you consult an expert before making any decisions on natural woods for materials used in your kitchen remodel.
Steel or Metal
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, steel or metal options may not be the best choice for everyone. While they offer a sleek and modern look, the material may create a sense of coldness in the kitchen. Without proper varnish coating, these cabinets are also susceptible to corrosion over time, especially if they are frequently exposed to moisture.
In addition, metal cabinets are often more expensive than other materials, and customization options may be limited. For those who prioritize personalization and a warm kitchen environment, metal cabinets may not be the best option.
To ensure that your kitchen cabinets meet all your needs and preferences, consider working with a professional kitchen cabinet manufacturer. They can help you select the perfect material and design for your kitchen and make sure that your cabinets are made to last. With their expertise and guidance, you can create a customized and inviting kitchen that meets all of your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What unusual kitchen cabinet materials should I avoid?
You should avoid materials such as particle board, plastic laminate, and MDF. These materials may be inexpensive, but they are not durable and do not hold up well in the long run.
What is the most durable material for cabinets?
The most durable material for cabinets is solid wood, such as oak, maple, cherry, or hickory. These materials are strong and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
What are some other materials I should avoid for my kitchen cabinets?
You should also avoid metals such as aluminum and steel, as they are prone to rust and corrosion. Additionally, you should avoid composite materials such as plywood, as they are not as strong as solid wood and may warp over time.
Conclusion
It is important to consider the material for your kitchen cabinet in order to achieve the desired aesthetic and efficient design. Some materials are better suited for this purpose, while others may not be ideal for a kitchen remodel.
