What is the best material to make kitchen fronts? — An overview of materials for every budget
IN KITCHEN DESIGN, EVERY DETAIL MATTERS, AND EACH ELEMENT INFLUENCES THE OVERALL AESTHETICS AND FUNCTIONALITY OF THE SPACE. ON THIS BLOG, WE FOCUS ON THE MOST IMPORTNANT ASPECT THAT IS ESSENTIAL AT THE HEARTH OF EVERY KITCHEN – CABINET FRONTS.
Kitchen cabinets are not only a practical storage element but also a key component of style in any kitchen. They constitute an integral part of the space, adding both functionality and aesthetic character. Without them, the kitchen loses its identity. In this article, we will embark on a journey through the fascinating world of various cabinet doors and finishes, which have the power to transform every kitchen into a unique culinary masterpiece.
Here are the most popular types of kitchen fronts that we PRODUCE:
1. Laminate fronts - ease of maintenance and a wide selection
Laminate fronts are one of the most popular types of kitchen furniture fronts. They are made of chipboard covered with laminate, which is resistant to scratches, impacts, and UV radiation. Laminate fronts are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing them to be matched to any interior.
Maintenance and care of laminated fronts:
Laminate fronts are easy to maintain. To clean them, simply use a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid using strong chemicals and sharp tools, as they can damage the laminate surface.
Advantages
Defects
Easy to care for
Resistant to scratches, impacts and UV rays
Wide selection of colors and patterns
Good price
Less resistance to moisture than in the case of solid wood fronts
Less resistance to high temperature
No renovation possible
Advantages
Easy to care for
Resistant to scratches, impacts and UV rays
Wide selection of colors and patterns
Good price
Defects
Less resistance to moisture than in the case of solid wood fronts
Less resistance to high temperature
No renovation possible
2. Lacquered MDF fronts - elegance and wide possibilities
Lacquered MDF fronts are one of the most popular types of kitchen furniture fronts. They are distinguished by an elegant appearance, smooth surface, and a wide range of colors.
Material and thickness: Lacquered MDF fronts are made of MDF board with a thickness of 18 mm or 19 mm. MDF board is a high-density material (about 700 kg/m3), making it resistant to deformation and durable.
Lacquering: The MDF board is covered with several layers of lacquer, which give it a smooth, glossy, or matte surface. Lacquering also protects the board from moisture and mechanical damage.
Milling: The high density of the MDF board allows for milling various patterns, frames, and grooves. This enables lacquered fronts to be additionally decorated and tailored to individual preferences.
Finishes: Lacquered MDF fronts are available in three finishes:
- Matte: An elegant and subdued finish that does not reflect light and masks minor imperfections.
- Semi-matte: A combination of elegance and practicality. The surface is slightly glossy but not as much as in the case of gloss.
- Gloss: A striking finish that reflects light and adds a modern character to the interior.
Edges: The edges of lacquered MDF fronts are also lacquered in the color of the board, providing an aesthetic finish and increasing resistance to damage.
Advantages
Defects
Elegant appearance
Wide color palette
Possibility of milling
Available in various finishes
Easy to clean
Resistance to moisture and mechanical damage
Higher price compared to laminated fronts
Less scratch resistance
Visible fingerprints
Advantages
Elegant appearance
Wide color palette
Possibility of milling
Available in various finishes
Easy to clean
Resistance to moisture and mechanical damage
Defects
Higher price compared to laminated fronts
Less scratch resistance
Visible fingerprints
3. Acrylic fronts - a shiny element of your kitchen
Acrylic fronts are becoming an increasingly popular choice in kitchen design. Their characteristic gloss and wide range of colors give furniture a modern and elegant look. But what lies behind this striking finish?
What are acrylic fronts made of?
The base of acrylic fronts is an MDF board covered on one side with a layer of acrylic. Acrylic is a synthetic material with high resistance to scratches, UV rays, and chemical exposure. Edges: ABS edge banding.
Advantages
Defects
Aesthetics
Finishes: Matte/Gloss
Durability. Greater resistance to scratches and stains.
Ease of cleaning
Wide selection of colors and patterns
Lack of milling possibilities
Higher price compared to lacquered fronts
Sensitive to high temperatures.
Advantages
Aesthetics
Finishes: Matte/Gloss
Durability. Greater resistance to scratches and stains.
Ease of cleaning
Wide selection of colors and patterns
Defects
Lack of milling possibilities
Higher price compared to lacquered fronts
Sensitive to high temperatures.
Acrylic fronts - is it a good choice for you?
Acrylic fronts are an excellent choice for those seeking modern and elegant kitchen furniture. Their high gloss and wide range of colors allow for creating a unique arrangement. Acrylic fronts are easy to clean and resistant to external factors. However, it should be noted that fingerprints may be visible on their surface.
4. Veneer fronts - a touch of nature in a modern edition.
Fronty fornirowane to połączenie naturalnego drewna i płyty MDF. Fornir to cienka warstwa drewna szlachetnego, która naklejana jest na płytę MDF. Dzięki temu fronty fornirowane łączą w sobie piękno naturalnego drewna z atrakcyjną ceną.
Veneer – natural finish
Veneer is available in various wood species such as oak, ebony, teak, or walnut. Each species has its unique properties and appearance. Veneer allows for achieving an effect almost identical to solid wood fronts. Edges of veneer fronts are also finished with edge banding made of the same wood species as the front.
There are various ways to finish the surfaces of veneer fronts, some of which include:
- Lacquering: This is a common solution that provides protection against mechanical damage, moisture, and stains. Clear lacquer also gives the fronts a glossy appearance, accentuating their natural beauty.
- Oil finishes: An alternative way to finish veneer fronts, giving them a matte look and gentle protection. Oil penetrates into the wood, giving it a warm hue while also protecting it from moisture. Wax provides a silky sheen and increases resistance to moisture but may require regular renewal to maintain protection.
Advantages
Defects
The natural beauty of wood
Attractive price compared to solid wood fronts
Durability and resistance to damage
Easy to clean
Possibility of renovation
Requires maintenance to preserve their appearance and durability.
Limited resistance to moisture and heat compared to solid wood fronts.
Advantages
The natural beauty of wood
Attractive price compared to solid wood fronts
Durability and resistance to damage
Easy to clean
Possibility of renovation
Defects
Requires maintenance to preserve their appearance and durability.
Limited resistance to moisture and heat compared to solid wood fronts.
5. Solid wood fronts - the warmth of nature in your kitchen
Solid wood fronts are synonymous with elegance and timeless design. The natural beauty of wood gives the kitchen a warm and cozy character.
Wood – noble material
Solid wood is a noble and durable material. It is distinguished by its unique grain pattern and warm color. Wooden fronts are available in various wood species such as oak, ash, beech, pine, or alder. Each species has its unique properties and appearance.
There are various ways to finish the surfaces of veneer fronts, some of which include:
- Lacquering: This is a common solution that provides protection against mechanical damage, moisture, and stains. Clear lacquer also gives the fronts a glossy appearance, accentuating their natural beauty.
- Oil finishes: An alternative way to finish veneer fronts, giving them a matte look and gentle protection. Oil penetrates into the wood, giving it a warm hue while also protecting it from moisture. Wax provides a silky sheen and increases resistance to moisture but may require regular renewal to maintain protection.
Advantages
Defects
Timeless design
The natural beauty of wood
Durability and resistance to damage
Easy to clean
Possibility of renovation
Higher price compared to MDF fronts
Sensitivity to moisture and high temperatures.
Require regular maintenance.
Advantages
Timeless design
The natural beauty of wood
Durability and resistance to damage
Easy to clean
Possibility of renovation
Defects
Higher price compared to MDF fronts
Sensitivity to moisture and high temperatures.
Require regular maintenance.
6. Unconventional fronts - the unique character of your kitchen.
In addition to traditional furniture fronts, there are many other options that can give your kitchen a unique character. Here are a few examples:
- Glass-framed fronts:
-Smoked glass: An elegant and modern solution that adds a mysterious atmosphere to the kitchen.
-Texture fluted glass: Interesting visual effect that works well in rustic or industrial-style kitchens - Rattan-filled fronts: Natural and warm material that fits perfectly into boho or Scandinavian-style kitchens.
- Louvered veneer fronts: Elegant and modern solution that gives the kitchen a sense of lightness and modern character.
Additional options:
Custom-made fronts can be lacquered in various colors, milled, or adorned with ornaments. The possibilities are virtually limitless, allowing you to create a kitchen fully tailored to your needs and taste.
Advantages
Defects
Unique look
Wide arrangement possibilities
Can be adapted to any interior
Durability and resistance to damage
Higher price compared to traditional fronts
Less availability
Greater attention to cleanliness required
Advantages
Unique look
Wide arrangement possibilities
Can be adapted to any interior
Durability and resistance to damage
Defects
Higher price compared to traditional fronts
Less availability
Greater attention to cleanliness required
Summary of the review of materials best suited for kitchen fronts.
Summarizing our review of various materials for kitchen fronts, each of them possesses unique characteristics that can adapt to different needs and kitchen styles. Here’s a brief analysis that may assist in making the right choice:
1. Laminate Board:
Pros: Affordability, wide range of patterns and colors.
Cons: Susceptibility to mechanical damage.
Finish: Edges protected with ABS tape.
Thickness: Typically 16-18 mm.
Parameters: Moisture resistance, availability of colors and patterns.
2. Lacquered MDF Board:
Pros: Elegance, smooth surface, wide range of colors.
Cons: Susceptibility to mechanical damage.
Finish: Edges uniformly finished.
Thickness: 16-22 mm.
Parameters: Quality of lacquer, moisture resistance, creative possibilities.
3. Acrylic Board:
Pros: Matte/gloss finishes, smooth surface, variety of colors.
Cons: Unable to be milled.
Finish: Edges protected with ABS tape.
Thickness: Usually 18-22 mm.
Parameters: Moisture resistance, variety of colors.
4. Veneer:
Pros: Natural beauty, possibility of coloring to any shade.
Cons: Higher price compared to lacquered fronts.
Finish: Available in various finishes, e.g., lacquered, oiled.
Thickness: 18-25 mm.
Parameters: Type of veneer, maintenance requirements, finishing method.
5. Natural Solid Wood:
Pros: Natural beauty, durability, uniqueness of each front.
Cons: Requires regular maintenance.
Finish: Carefully sanded and polished wood.
Thickness: 18-25 mm.
Parameters: Wood species, maintenance requirements, finishing method.
6. Glass Fronts:
Pros: Modern and elegant appearance, adding lightness and brightness to the kitchen space.
Cons: Susceptibility to fingerprints and water stains, may require more frequent cleaning.
Finish: Glass fronts are usually carefully finished to achieve a smooth and glossy surface.
Thickness: 19-22 mm.
Parameters: Type of glass, finishing method.
Now that you are familiar with the pros and cons, as well as the maintenance requirements of each popular material used for cabinets, you will be better prepared to choose the ideal material that suits your taste, budget, and preferences!
If you are also looking for inspiration for countertops, we have prepared for you our guide to the 6 best countertop materials.
Send us your finished design, hand-drawn sketch, room plan or inspiration photos. We will be happy to listen to your ideas and needs. You can contact us via e-mail: kontakt@meblechojnowski.pl or the contact form, so that we can estimate your kitchen online and free of charge in just a few hours.