When designing or remodeling a kitchen, choosing the right cabinet material is an important decision to make depending on how your kitchen area will be used. Are you planning on remodeling the kitchen again in a few years, redoing a rental property, making a home cooking business, or just want the best on the market? The construction material does not affect the cabinet’s appearance much because the face of the cabinet is usually natural wood, but it does affect its durability and longevity. Here’s a quick guide to the two major cabinet construction materials to help you make a better decision:
1. Particle/Furniture Board
Particle board offers an economical solution that works well for budget-conscious homeowners, builder grade houses, and rental properties. Made from compressed wood chips, sawdust, and resin, particle board provides a smooth surface that’s typically finished with a layer of veneer or laminate. It is harder to handle during installation because of it's added weight, and it lacks the internal strength needed for heavy-duty use. Due to its lower durability, particle board is best suited for interior shelving or less critical cabinet components and is often used in combination with plywood for better results. While particle board can hold up in low-humidity environments, it is susceptible to moisture damage, which can cause it to swell or crumble if misused. When using particle board for kitchen cabinets, it is recommended to use full plywood construction on at least the sink cabinet.
Although similar, furniture board is a higher grade version of particle board. It is an even heavier and denser material made with finer wood particles and is usually used as an alternative on higher end cabinet lines instead of particle board. It offers improved strength, smoother surfaces, and slightly better moisture resistance when compared to particle board.
2. Plywood
Plywood, on the other hand, stands out for its strength, durability, and moisture resistance, making it a superior choice for kitchen cabinets. Constructed from layers of wood veneer glued together in alternating grain patterns, plywood is able to withstand heavy loads and maintain its structure over long periods of time. It resists moisture far better than particle board, making it ideal for humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms. Being lighter, it is also easier to handle during installation and puts less stress on walls. Though it is more expensive than particle board, plywood offers greater longevity and versatility. Its natural wood grain can also be left exposed or finished for a high end look, making it the preferred material for homeowners seeking durability and aesthetic appeal in their cabinets. While it comes at a higher cost than materials such as particle board, furniture board, or laminated cabinets, it is the best choice for cabinet construction for your home.
