Cabinets are essential to every kitchen, providing storage for utensils and other items. They can be customized to fit the needs and preferences of homeowners. When choosing cabinets, there are many things to consider, such as material, style, and cost. This detailed guide will assist you in navigating the procedure.
Material
Cabinets are one of the biggest investments in a kitchen. Choosing the right materials is important because they can make or break a space.
Wood is the most popular material for cabinets, but other options exist. Some modern kitchen designs also use laminates, metals, and non-wood materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Plywood, a layered construction that resists shrinking and warping, is a common choice in kitchens. This type of cabinetry is ideal for drawers and shelves.
Another popular kitchen cabinet material is MDF, a high-density composite made from recycled fibers and resin. This durable material is often molded into one-piece frames and is also resistant to cracking. Particleboard is also popular for kitchen cabinets but less strong than plywood or MDF. It can take a screw once or twice, but repeated attempts to drive the screws will result in crumbling.
Style
The style used in kitchen cabinets can be a major factor in the kitchen’s overall look. There are a variety of different techniques that can be used in kitchen cabinets Seattle, including contemporary, rustic, and classic. Generally speaking, cabinetry should be made from a material that will hold up well over time and resist moisture. Solid wood, plywood, or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) can be used. If you choose a material exposed to water, you’ll want to ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent damage and warping. Plywood is a popular option for cabinet frames because it’s durable and strong. Plywood is a combination of thin layers of timber that are glued together. It can be used in various cabinet designs but is usually more expensive than MDF or particleboard.
Functionality
The functionality of kitchen cabinets is an important part of a kitchen’s design. The cabinets should be well-placed and accessible to make food preparation, washing and cooking more efficient. The cabinet depth also increases storage efficiency, especially for larger serving pieces or appliances. Some cabinets also use a sliding drawer system convenient for smaller items and trays and inserts to organize large, heavy dishes or lids. Drawers and trays can be mounted on the sides of a cabinet to reduce its width slightly, or they can sit atop open doors to reveal shelves. These are effective for storing pots and pans, lids, dishes (can be used with pegs), plastic ware, baking/ cookie sheets, small appliances, and more. Some homeowners are ditching the traditional lower cabinets in favor of drawer stacks to save space and create a more functional kitchen. These are often easier to reach than a big cavity that has to be crawled around for each item.
Cost
When you decide to renovate your kitchen, the cost of your cabinets can make a big difference. It can also affect the design and functionality of your space. Kitchen cabinet prices vary based on the kind and quality of material used. The primary materials used include hardwood, plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), particleboard, and wood veneer. Another factor affecting kitchen cabinets’ cost is the construction method and design. For example, framed cabinets have visible rails and stiles that can add to the overall price of your cabinetry. On the other hand, frameless cabinets are more modern and have a flat front that allows for a more customized look. They typically cost more than framed cabinets at $5,000 to $20,000.
