Which Material Is Best for Modular Kitchen Cabinets?

What is the best material for modular kitchen cabinets in India?

Which board is best for kitchen cabinets? As a new homeowner, we’re sure. That the first thing on your home interior agenda is a modular kitchen — and with good reason; too! Modular kitchens, considered as the most practical. And stylish solution for your kitchen interior. A harmonious blend of utility and aesthetics. They are available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes. To match everyone’s preferences.

With so many options in the market. You may find difficult to make the right choice of materials for your cooking space. There’s no doubting the fact. That your materials will determine how durable your kitchen will be, and how much it’s going to cost you! Here’s the lowdown on materials for modular kitchen to help you make an informed choice!

The cabinets are generally made up of two materials. The skeleton or carcass, and the exterior covering or outer finish. Let’s talk about both in detail.

Regardless of the wide gained popularity of Modular Kitchens. Many homeowners are not aware of which material has to be finally used for their modular kitchen. Will it stand the effects of friction and load? Is it water-resistant and heat-resistant? And a lot more. If you are among them. Then kindly, read on to find out what materials are available for designing a modular kitchen. And how to select the right one.

Everyone desires a modular kitchen to ease their cooking experience. But, how much do we know about these kitchens? Unlike traditional kitchens. They are generally made by assembling different modules together. To fit the size and utility of the kitchen. Thus, these can be mainly manufactured at a factory, and then assembled at home. These kitchens can be easily dismantled and reassembled. As each kitchen cabinet is an individual module and not one fixture.

What is each module made of?

A carcass is basically the body of the module with panels joined together with a crossbar. The base modules come with plinth feet which have height adjustment and a skirting to hide the legs. The carcass is the main body after which shutters, hardware and hinges can be ultimately added.

Seems like a basic question, right? And yet, it’s so crucial!

Why? Because the kitchen cabinets, comprise at least half of your kitchen’s skeletal structure. And to top that, the materials, and finishes that you choose to define how long they will last. And how resilient they will be. Pick the best material for kitchen cabinets. And you don’t have to get that annoying makeover much before its time.

So, we’re going to talk about what kitchen cabinets are usually made of, in this post. What is also known as the kitchen carcass.

So, let’s get down to the materials to use for your kitchen cabinets.

Contemplating a kitchen renovation or planning a new kitchen? Apart from the framework, and appliances. It is also important to choose the cabinet surfacing wisely. The surfacing is not only responsible for the overall look of the kitchen. But it is also a key factor that determines the durability of the cabinets.

From budget to high-end, there are many options available. Find out which one fits in your home!

1. Carcass Material.

Plywood, MDF or HDF, particleboard or wood are the most common options for the cabinet carcass material. Let’s take them up one by one.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #1: Plywood

Plywood is essentially a man-made material (or engineered wood). Which is mainly created by gluing layers, and layers of thin wood (or wood veneers) into a single sheet or board. Plywood is a stable and durable material. It is available in different thicknesses and is fairly stable. Plywood has a high degree of strength due to the way it’s constructed and can hold heavy-weight. It can be further coated. With plastic laminate, wood veneer or thermo-foil for a smoother finish. And for a better protection against termites and moisture. With modular kitchens seeping into almost every apartment or house in India. Plywood has taken over as the most sought-after material. And is readily available in Indian, markets today.

Marine or BWP (boiling waterproof) plywood is moisture resistant. And is the best option for kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Where a lot of water spills and splashes can be expected. Commercial ply is less expensive than BWP ply but is not as durable.

Also, Read: the most effective Kitchen Countertop Materials in India!

You can see the thin layers of wood that make up a plywood board.

Pros:

• Plywood is less prone to damage by moisture or water — making it an excellent material for Indian kitchens.
• Because of the way it is usually bonded (i.e., with the grains running against one another). It doesn’t shrink, crack or warp. Hence, it is highly durable, too.
• It is affordable, costing anywhere between Rs. 85 and Rs. 115 per square foot for a 19 mm-thick BWR plywood from a reputed brand. Like CenturyPly, Greenply or Kitply. The costs depend on the type and thickness of the board. Commercial plywood would cost roughly around Rs. 55 per square foot.
• It is stronger than all other engineered woods, and can better hold heavy weight.
• It is also lighter than other boards, and is, therefore, a great option for hanging, or wall cabinets.

Cons:

• While it is much cheaper than solid wood, it is more expensive than HDF or MDF (read about these later in the article).
• Elaborate designs with plywood kitchen cabinets is difficult. As the material, is very dense.
• You have to ensure that your plywood cabinets are coated with laminate or veneer. So that the rough edges, don’t show.

This is another finest material. Which makes, the interior designers gravitate towards it. For the obvious reasons of high moisture resistance, high boiling water resistance, and great stability. On the other side, it is slightly expensive, and has a limited supply.

This is the most preferred material in the kitchen for its strength. It has variants like Boiling Water Resistant Ply and Moisture Resistant (MR) Ply. Which work well in kitchens, due to their resistance to water.

Pick this if your #1 criteria is Quality.

Frequently asked question: Which plywood is best for modular kitchens?

Since kitchen cabinets are more prone to getting wet. And being exposed  to steam, opt for Boiling Water-Resistant (BWR) ply. Instead of  commercial ply. You can also opt for the more expensive Marine ply. But  do ensure that what you’re getting is authentic. While marine and BWR  are costlier. They are resistant to fungal attacks and are overall more  durable.

Also browse: 15 Indian Kitchen Design Ideas from Real Homes

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #2: Natural Solid Wood.

Haven’t we all seen those old wooden cabinets in our homes growing up. Or at least in the homes of our grandparents? Timeless, old school and solid. These are mostly made from sheesham (Indian rosewood) teak, mahogany or balut (oak).

Even today, it doesn’t matter. What’s your kitchen style? Modern or traditional. Natural wooden cabinets fit any kitchen sort of a pair of gloves! Yet understandably, with the advent of modular kitchens. The demand for natural wood has gone down abruptly.

The grains show so beautifully in wood. Although expensive, natural wood can be actually used to build a modular kitchen. However, the flaws like knots and splinters can affect the overall design. Also, termites may pose a serious threat to the wood. But, if you have actual wood, you can take these measures to resist a termite attack.

If you have the budget for it, you can opt for natural wood to build your kitchen. But, you will have to get the work done by a carpenter. Most of the modular kitchen factories do not use real wood as the core material since it is not easy to work with. Unless it is properly seasoned, it will warp over time.

You will also not get consistent grains as the knots, and whorls in the wood finish is all-natural. Yet, this adds to the beauty of the finished product. Teak rubber-wood or beech are the most common types of wood available in the market.

Wood is far and away the foremost common material used for cabinets. It is a non-toxic, and renewable resource.

This is by far the go-to material choice for many homeowners, and interior design experts. As it provides a natural look for the cabinets and adapts to traditional as well as modern styles.

It also carries a few drawbacks with it. Like expanding and contracting based on weather conditions. Becoming more vulnerable to termites, and other pests. Consuming more time to get designed, etc.

Hardwoods like teak, sheesham (Indian rosewood), and marindi (mindi or Melia azedarach) are commonly used kitchen cabinet materials in India. You can stain, and varnish the surface or paint it with your choice of hue.

Pros:

• Wood is available in a diverse range of grains, colors, and textures. Natural variation within the material itself adds to its distinctive appeal.
• It adapts very well to both traditional and modern designs styles. Cleaning polished wood is not a hefty task. Avoid highly acidic solutions, such as commercial cleaners.
• The textures, and grains of natural wood are beautiful and the colors are deep.
• Wood is easy to maintain on a day-to-day basis, and you don’t have to worry about stains and spots. Just use a cloth to wipe clean! However, you will need to get the wood often polished to maintain a smooth texture.
• Wood is very strong and durable, and will last you many, many years — maybe even a lifetime.

Cons:

• Bad-quality timber boards show warps and dents. So care must be taken to choose the correct wood.
• Change in humidity levels can damage the core and surface of the wood. And it needs frequent polishing to keep up its straight and smooth texture.
• It is also a costly and time-consuming material to work with.
• Termites and other insects love wood, as much as we do. Therefore, it’s important that the wood is treated in advance.
• Moisture and humidity can affect the core of the material over time.
• Since it isn’t man-made, and is now scarce. Natural wood is far costlier than plywood, costing anywhere between Rs. 600 and Rs. 2,000 per cubic foot. And like mentioned before, polishing is a costly affair.

Pick this if your #1 criteria is Durability.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #3: High-Density & Medium-Density Fibreboard.

A Medium-Density Fibreboard is generally made of small wooden fibres. Which are basically glued together with resins and hot-pressed. This is a budget-friendly option and can have any finish fitted on top. Since this is an engineered wood, it has a better chance of resisting termites and has a smooth finish.

Thus, this material carries very few chances of water seepage. It is also less expensive, and more durable. Its disadvantage, is it cannot be easily shaped. Which in turn, hinders the design outcome.

High Density and Medium Density Fibreboard (HDF and MDF) are generally engineered woods. They are usually made with wood particles bonded together with hot glue. These boards are commonly used for kitchen cabinets. But are less durable and offer less strength than plywood. Since the board, is very smooth. It can be neatly finished and painted to give a great appearance.

However, HDF is a higher grade of MDF. And is harder and denser. Yet, they’re two different materials altogether!

Fibre-board do not offer enough resistance to screws. And need special fixing details to hold on to screws and hinges. If the fixing of, MDF shutters are not done with enough attention to the details. Then the shutters will not be as durable as shutters with a plywood core.

Pro tip: If you’re going for an MDF kitchen, you can always go for BWR ply for the cabinets below the sink.

In fact, those IKEA furniture pieces that you’re lusting after are possibly manufactured from these boards. Although it’s, interesting to note. That while they’re common kitchen cabinet materials. Interior designers and contractors recommend MDF more for wardrobes, and doors. Or for kitchen cabinet shutters.

MDF or HDF is denser but not necessarily stronger than plywood.

Pros:

• Both HDF and MDF have a really smooth surface (easier to paint!), and may be easily cut for designs.
• They cost about 20% lesser than regular plywood. Hence, are a more economical choice (HDF is more expensive than MDF). Regular MDF would cost you roughly around Rs. 50 per square foot. Go for Centuryply or Greenply.
• Both are sustainable options. As they’re made from fragments of wood leftover from projects or otherwise.

Cons:

• Since they’re denser (not stronger!) than plywood, they’re heavier to work with. Plus, they’re not as strong as plywood.
• Both are not resistant to water or moisture and, hence, aren’t suitable for areas near the sink.
• They don’t hold screws well as they’re made of small grains and particles.

Pick this if your #1 criteria is Affordability.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #4: Particle Board.

The Cheapest material available in the market is particle board. It’s usually made from sawdust and waste wood. Which is one reason, people question its quality.

So, it is less expensive. The same reason makes it is less firm. And causes it to expand, and discolor. When moisture content, increases inside the kitchen environment.

Since this material, is not light it cannot hold onto more weight. And is the least durable of all the material options. It is suitable where the kitchen is mainly used for light cooking only.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #5: Metal (Stainless steel or aluminum).

Metal kitchen cabinets are very strong and durable. This is a more expensive option. Steel or aluminum can be perfectly used as doors over wood-based cabinets. DMK, would suggest you team this eclectic material with glass to lighten the look. Though plain ones, are the most common. Metal sheets are available in varied finishes: brushed, etched, and patterned.

Stainless steel is generally used in professional kitchens than in home kitchens. This material is strong, durable, and easy to clean. And also, remains unaffected by heat and humidity. What makes them not a go for option is they are noisy and need re-polishing if rust, or scratch happen.

While these are the popularly used materials for modular kitchen. There are a few materials like laminates, acrylic, membrane, poly-urethane. Which can be smartly used as topcoats and finishes. To prevent the underlying material from scratch and other normal day-to-day wear and tears.

Pros:

• Metal boasts a unique look.
• Treated metal is sturdy, rust-resistant and stain-resistant.
• Metal doors are generally unaffected by heat and humidity.
• These sheets are easy to scrub, and clean. Thus, unaffected by the spice, and frying-induced grime deposited in our kitchens.

Cons

• Metals are available in a limited range of colors.
• They might need re-polishing when the top shiny coat oxidizes or rusts.
• Metal surfaces show oil smudges and fingerprints very clearly. So there’s a lot more deployment of the duster.
• These sheets also have the tendency to dent and scratch.
• Lastly, their doors and drawers are noisier than those of other materials.

2. Outer Finishes/ Shutter.

While the most common finish, is a laminate. Modular kitchens also comes in PU, acrylic, membrane, or glass finishes.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #6: Laminate.

If you’re looking for an enduring finish, then laminates come to your rescue and are also easy on the pocket. It is also heat and moisture-resistant, making it the perfect match for a kitchen.

They are available in a wide variety of eye-catching colors, textures, and finishes. Laminates are high on durability and easy to clean. They are also light on your wallet and are the most popular choice.

As solid wood is prone to damage, and infestation. Often laminates are usually preferred. Laminates are thin sheets sandwiched together with layers of plastic resin, paper with a printed layer of different patterns or designs. And an overlay of a tough plastic film.

To install such surfaces. Composite products like plywood, particle board, and MDF (Medium-density fibreboard) are mainly used as substrates. A decorative film or sheet is usually pasted on these boards. These substrates are economical than solid wood (as are laminates) and tougher.

Do select a laminate from the HPLs (high-pressure laminates) for your kitchens. As they’re more durable, moisture-resistant and durable than the LPLs (low-pressure laminates).

From matte to high-gloss, and unicore (where every layer of paper in the laminate has the same pattern and color. So there is no wearing away). To digital (with specialized, even customized, printing on the surface). You have a lot to choose from. Many brands like Merino Laminates, Century Laminates, Aristo Laminates and Greenlam Laminates, amongst many others, offer a plethora of designs and finishes.

Pros:

• These compressed sheets are both durable and affordable.
• Since printed layer, comes on a paper backing. You can achieve the look of virtually all materials (like wood, metal, leather) with laminates.
• Its skin doesn’t wear off, scratch or fade easily. And it does not need repeated polishing.
• Laminates are quite resistant to moisture.
• And cleaning their surface is much simpler. Because they are, usually coated with a thin transparent plastic layer.

Cons:

• If not installed properly, the edges of laminates tend to peel off.
• Since laminates are generally made of plastic-based resins and paper compressed under high pressure. They are a non-renewable material.
• Some kinds are also known to emit toxic gases into the air.

Browse through more modern kitchen cupboard designs.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #7: Acrylic.

Want your kitchen to look stunning? Then acrylic finishes give it a luxurious touch with its glossy finish. However, this means that fingerprint marks, dirt and stains are more visible. And your kitchen cabinets will need regular cleaning. Also, this is an expensive variant in finishes.

Pro tip: For a better understanding of acrylic vs laminate, read this article.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #8: Membrane.

If you’re looking for a mix of a durable yet elegant kitchen, membrane finish is a better option. It is hard-wearing and relatively easy to maintain. They are also easy to clean with a wet cloth and are not as expensive as an acrylic finish.

Membrane finishes come in as a close second. A thin membrane is factory-coated around the shutter. And wraps right around all grooves, mouldings, and sides of the shutter. With a seamless finish, it ensures high durability. It is a PVC foil available in matte, glossy, and wooden finishes. The membrane is the most popular finish for kitchens today.

If you’re looking for a bit more luxury, glossy acrylic finishes are sleek, and elegant. They give a high-end ultra-modern look.

Pro tip: The glossy finish shows up smudges, and dirt more easily. And needs a lot of maintenance. So this is perhaps not for those who are too busy to spend time on a daily cleaning!   

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #9: PU or Polyurethane.

Not happy with the above choices? Not to worry, we also offer PU finishes for that classy look.

PU finish is basically painted over the shutter and can be glossy or matte.

This finish comes in glossy or matte. It’s painted right on the shutter for a seamless, durable finish that is very appealing.

You can get the same kind of impeccable finishing as your refrigerator door.

PU is very hard and extremely durable but is also the most expensive finishing option.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #10: Wood veneers.

Veneers are slices or sheets of solid wood. that’s usually pasted over a composite substrate, similar to laminates. These sheets are then stained, and polished to realize a desired color and texture.

Veneers truthfully reflect the refined grains and sweetness of natural wood. Many brands like CenturyPly, ArchidPly, GreenPly and BrichPly provide good-quality veneers everywhere in India.

Pros:

• Wood veneers are sustainable, and affordable compared to wood.
• As only, thin slices of solid wood is principally used to cover large surface areas.
• Veneers can make a principally hard-edged kitchen look softer.
• These are often treated to achieve matte, semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes.

Cons:

• Veneers tend to discolor once they are exposed to natural light.
• The sheets require polishing after a period, just like wood.
• You may see stains due to water if the sheet isn’t polished properly.
• Veneers aren’t scratch-resistant.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #11: PVC or Poly-Vinyl Chloride sheets.

Poly-vinyl chloride sheets are composite plastic sheets which give a tough finish. Therefore, they can be perfectly installed without a substrate. This kitchen cabinet material is inexpensive and simple to install. Being waterproof and oil-proof, it makes a better option for kitchen cabinetry. PVC’s sheets are usually available in lighter colors. Some well-known brands also offer faux wooden grains and mouldings.

Pros:

• This material is termite-proof, anti-corrosive and easy to maintain.
• Just like laminates, PVC sheets are easy to source and replace.
• PVC is a cost-effective and sound alternative as compared to laminates, and wood-based products.

Cons:

• PVC’s sheets do not come in a wide variety of colors and pattern.
• These sheets aren’t fire-resistant, and that they yellow with age.
• Only hardware that’s compatible with plastic are often used for hinges, handles, and tracks.
• Some plastics soften with time, so the joints loosen.

Kitchen Cabinet Materials #12: Glass.

You can also opt for glass shutters in plain, or frosted variants for a better view of your spices and groceries. This can make your kitchen look airy while easing your effort in cooking.

The modular kitchen contains modules of different sizes and storage. Which are usually picked based on your need and the specification of your kitchen.

Also, if you liked reading this, take a look at All About Acrylic Kitchen Cabinets.

How to select the right material?

Your selection of material is paramount as it can determine how and how long you will use your kitchen. Before deciding, check?

Is it heat and water-resistant?

Can it bear load and tolerable weight?

Does it match the style of the entire kitchen?

Does it needs frequent patch-up or polishing?

Is it easy to clean and maintain?

Can it withstand a normal wear and tears?

Choosing a material based solely on its cost may take your kitchen away from quality and durability. If you are still confused, consult an interior designer before finalizing the material.

Still, unable to decide on the best materials for your modular kitchen design? Do swing by to meet the expert designers at DMK, and we’ll help you design your kitchen over a cup of coffee!

Want to know more about the termite proof materials used in a kitchen? The following posts should help:

Termite Free Modular Kitchens

The Best Kitchen Counter-top Materials in India — Tried, Tested and Unique!

Granite Kitchen in India & All You Wanted to Know About It!

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