How to Select Materials for Kitchen Cabinets

Most people spend up to 60% of their kitchen budget on cabinets, and it’s no wonder. Cabinets are more than just a place to store things. Your kitchen cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen design. The materials that you choose can set the tone and style for your entire kitchen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine your budget for kitchen cabinets. The amount that you have to spend will be a major determining factor in the materials that you have to choose from.

2. Decide on the basic style of your kitchen. The material you choose should fit the style.

3. Check online catalogs and custom cabinetry shops to see the different styles and materials available.

4. Get the advice of an experienced contractor who can tell you the advantages and disadvantages of each material you’re considering.

5. Check the amount of care needed to maintain the appearance of each material you’re considering.

6. Visit local cabinetry shops and home supply warehouses to price cabinets in the materials that you’re considering. Get swatches of your choices and bring them home to see them in the light in your kitchen.

7. Compare prices for your choice of cabinet styles in various materials.

8. Make your decision based on the best combination of price, durability and appearance.

Tips & Warnings

• Think outside the wooden box. Wood is a perennial favorite, but there are many other choices for cabinet materials including metal, wood veneers, thermofoil and glass.
• Research your materials options and consider “green” materials. It’s important to consider environmentally sound materials not only for the planet’s health, but for the health of your family. Many traditional cabinet materials are made with chemicals that can release toxic fumes in your kitchen.
• The materials you choose can set the tone for your kitchen. Choose a light finish if your kitchen feels small and cramped. Warm woods like maple can make your kitchen feel cozier. Glass and metal each contribute to a modern streamlined feel in your kitchen.
• You can reduce the cost by choosing to have the cabinets made in a less expensive material and only using the best for the cabinet facings.
• Many wood products, finishes and sealants contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can be released in the air and cause illnesses. Look for finishes and woods that are free of urea and formaldehyde for your family’s health.