Boxes
Cabinet boxes are usually plywood or particleboard. Plywood is lighter, holds screws well and tolerates moisture better. Particleboard, often faced with melamine, is less expensive and stable when kept dry. Either can make a durable cabinet when it is thick enough and well assembled.
Doors and Frames
Solid hardwood such as maple, oak, cherry, hickory or walnut is standard for stained doors and face frames. MDF is common for painted doors because it is smooth and does not expand and contract the way wood does, so paint is less likely to crack at the joints.
When a proposal describes solid wood custom cabinets, ask which parts are solid wood. Doors and face frames may use hardwood while the cabinet boxes use a different material. Compare the specification for each part rather than relying on a broad label.
Other Surfaces
Thermofoil is a vinyl film formed over MDF. Laminate and melamine are hard-wearing surfaces used on slab doors and box interiors. Wood veneer over plywood or MDF gives the look of solid wood on large flat panels.
Review how the substrate works with the proposed finish choice, especially on exposed ends and frequently handled surfaces.
Find Cabinet Companies Near You
Each company in our city rankings lists the services it offers. Browse all states and cities, or start with Huntsville, Nashville, Atlanta or Tampa.
