Select Materials for Kitchen Cabinets

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The materials you select for kitchen cabinets is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when building or remodeling your home. Cabinets are the focal point of a kitchen, and since they’re necessary for storage, quality cabinetry adds a considerable amount of value and appeal. Becoming familiar with material choices is the first step to attaining the kitchen of your dreams.

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Selecting Materials

Measure your kitchen, and make a scale diagram of existing cabinets, appliances and windows.;

Visit kitchen design centers and displays to view some of the many options, and obtain pamphlets and brochures.;

Write down prices for future reference and cost comparison.;

Take note of the options and add-ons that catch your eye.;

Go online or visit your local library to view pictures and descriptions of wood and wood laminate materials.;

Melamine laminate is made from pressed wood covered with resin and paper, and it’s one of the least expensive options. It can be designed to look like real wood, and it’s also available in a wide range of colors and styles.;

Plastic laminate cabinetry is a great choice if you want to achieve a smooth, up-to-date look at an affordable price. Choices include white as well as many colors and textures.;

If your decorating style is rustic, consider knotty pine cabinets. It’s sturdy and distinctive, and the knots add a great deal of character and appeal.;

The look of natural wood is very pleasing, and kitchen cabinets made of ash are the perfect choice if you prefer unstained varnished cabinetry. Heartwood ash ranges from light to medium brown, and sapwood is buttery in color.;

Cherry is an excellent selection if cost isn’t a factor. The rich crimson highlights and interesting features are outstanding, and it’s great choice for contemporary as well as traditional style.;

If you love the look of cherry, but it isn’t within your budget, consider birch. This commonly used kitchen cabinet material can be stained to look like cherry.;

American red oak is a durable, long-lasting choice for country or traditional kitchens. The grain is fine and has many interesting characteristics.;

Hickory boasts heavy dramatic grain and sharp contrasting highlights. It’s durable, and it’s a good choice if you want a country-style kitchen.;

Maple is a versatile choice because it goes well with traditional or contemporary decor, and it’s a good candidate for glaze, paint or stain.;

Cabinet sides and shelves should be made from top-grade solid plywood. The sides should be at least �¯�¿�½ inch thick, and the shelves should be at least three-quarters of an inch thick.;

Drawer boxes should be solid wood, tightly dovetailed and not glued together or covered with vinyl laminate.;

Look for gaps where the sides meet the base in drawers and cabinets. Everything should be tightly and properly joined and not filled in with glue.;

Don’t choose melamine laminate if your cabinets take a lot of abuse. This material isn’t as resilient as other options, and it’s difficult to repair.;

Don’t buy kitchen cabinets without first seeing them uninstalled so you can fully examine them for quality and craftsmanship.;

Never assume the material used inside cabinetry is satisfactory. Look inside cabinets, and don’t settle for plastic shelf clips, plastic hardware or particleboard shelving. It won’t last.;

Selecting Hardware

If your kitchen cabinets are customizable, choose the hardware after choosing the cabinets.;

Consider the color of fixtures, the theme of the room and the style.;

Take a look at the many hardware options available online as well as home improvement and building supply stores.;

Look at various types of hardware next to the cabinetry you’ve chosen so you can select the most appropriate material.;

Consider durability, ratings and warranties before making your final decision.;

Buy the necessary number of hinges, knobs and handles, as well as a few extras to have on hand.;

Kitchen cabinet knobs are a reflection of style and distinct personality, and the number of choices is phenomenal. Choose knobs that express your individual style.;

Shop online to find the widest variety of hardware and material for kitchen cabinets. It’s a great way to compare prices and find just the right hardware at the lowest possible cost.;

New hardware can give old cabinets a whole new look. If you don’t intend on replacing your cabinets, spruce them up with new knobs or handles.;

Don’t buy cheap hardware and think you’re getting a bargain. Cheap plastic hardware doesn’t last. Invest in better material to begin with and it will last the lifetime of your cabinets.;

http://www.kitchencabinethardware.com;

http://www.wellborn.com;

http://www.kraftmaid.com;

http://www.merillat.com;

http://www.millspride.com;