Getting your kitchen cabinets refaced is an affordable way to upgrade your kitchen. If you are thinking of getting your cabinets refaced, you may be wondering what materials are used. The following guide covers some of the most commonly used materials in cabinet refacing.
Common Materials Used in Cabinet Refacing
There are many different materials used for cabinet refacing. They range from inexpensive and lightweight, to expensive but long-lasting.
PVC Vinyl
PVC vinyl is one of the most commonly-used materials in cabinet refacing. PVC vinyl is much more affordable than wood, which is one reason it is so popular. Another reason is that it is easy to install due to being so lightweight.
PVC vinyl comes in many colors. It is also low-maintenance and easy to clean. Unfortunately, it is not very resistant to fire and can scratch easily.
Wood
Wood, of course, is a popular material in cabinet refacing. Wood looks classy and is easy to customize and stain with many different finishes and colors. There are also many different types of wood; Teak, Mahogany, Pine, and Hickory, just to name a few.
Wood is very durable and is easy to clean, as well. However, wood does take a lot of maintenance with special oils and polishes to keep it at its best. It is also very expensive, harder to install than PVC vinyl, and is not resistant to termites or humidity.
Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)
Medium Density Fiberboard, or MDF, is an engineered wood product made from particles of wood held together with either glue or resin. It is formed using heat and pressure. MDF is more durable than typical particleboard and more affordable than solid wood.
MDF is resistant to paint chipping or peeling. It is an inexpensive and stable material to use in cabinet resurfacing. Unfortunately, it is not as durable as solid wood. Over time, chipping of the MDF can occur and allow moisture to get in and damage the material.
3D Laminate
3D Laminate is, in simple terms, an MDF that has a vinyl film protecting its surface. It is made using heat and pressure to bond the layers of material together.
3D Laminate is affordable, sturdy, and resistant to heat and moisture. It is also easy to wipe clean and does not stain easily. Over time, it can peel and weaken. It is not as strong or durable as wood is.
Wood Veneer
Wood veneer is basically thin pieces of wood that are stuck onto other materials like plywood, particleboard, or MDF. It is typically used in place of solid wood. It is an affordable option for those who do not want to spend a lot of money on solid wood cabinets. You can get the look of real wood for just a fraction of the cost.
Wood veneer comes in many different stains. The material is flexible and easy to work with and customize to suit your tastes. There are a few downsides, however. Wood veneer is susceptible to damage from water and can crack over time. They can also be difficult to install and it is best to hire a professional. Wood veneer finishes require some upkeep to keep them looking their best.
For more information on the materials used in refacing cabinets, check out our website. Contact us for a consultation today.