The best quality kitchen cabinets are typically made of durable materials and have sturdy construction. Some of the most common materials used for high-quality kitchen cabinets include:
- Solid wood: Solid wood cabinets are made of a single piece of wood and are known for their durability and natural beauty. They can be stained or painted to match the style of your kitchen.
- Plywood: Plywood cabinets are made by layering thin sheets of wood together and bonding them with glue. They are strong and stable, and can be finished in a variety of ways.
- MDF (medium-density fiberboard): MDF cabinets are made from recycled wood fibres that are pressed and bonded together with resin. They are less expensive than solid wood or plywood cabinets, but are still quite durable and can be finished to look like other types of wood.
- MFC (melamine faced chipboard) is a type of engineered wood product that is used to make kitchen cabinets and other furniture. MFC kitchen cabinets are made by bonding a layer of melamine to the surface of a core made of chipboard or particleboard.
The key reasons why MFC is a popular material for cabinet construction:
- Durability: MFC cabinets are resistant to scratches and stains, which makes them suitable for use in the kitchen.
- Easy to clean: The smooth, non-porous surface of MFC cabinets can be easily wiped down, making them easy to keep clean.
- Versatility: MFC cabinets are available in a wide range of colours and styles, so you can choose a look that matches the decor of your kitchen.
- Affordable: MFC cabinets are generally less expensive than solid wood or plywood cabinets, making them a more budget-friendly option.
- Consistency: MFC cabinets are made with a consistent core material, so the cabinets have a uniform look and feel.
Overall, MFC kitchen cabinets are a practical and affordable choice for homeowners who want durable and easy-to-maintain cabinets that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use in the kitchen.
Here are some additional points to consider when evaluating the quality of kitchen cabinets:
- Construction: Look for rigid cabinet construction with solid backs, full-extension drawers, and soft-close hinges, which will help ensure that the cabinets are sturdy and well-made.
- Quality of fittings: The quality of the handles, knobs, and other fittings on the cabinets can impact their overall appearance and durability. Look for cabinets with high-quality fittings that are securely attached.
- Hinges: The hinges on the cabinets should be sturdy and easy to operate. Self-closing hinges are a good choice as they help keep the doors closed when not in use.
- Drawer boxes: The drawer boxes should be sturdy and able to support the weight of the contents. Full-extension drawers are a good choice as they allow you to access the entire contents of the drawer.
- Method of fitting hinges: The hinges should be securely attached to the cabinets and should not be prone to coming loose or sagging over time.
- Cabinet legs and plinth clips: Cabinet legs and plinth clips help support the weight of the cabinets and keep them level. Look for cabinets with sturdy legs and plinth clips that are securely attached.
Kitchen cabinets that are made of high-quality materials, have sturdy construction, and have well-made fittings, hinges, and drawer boxes will be of better quality and likely to last longer than those that are poorly made.
