Welcome to the ultimate guide to plywood kitchen cabinets! In this article, we will explore the different types and grades of plywood used for kitchen cabinets, the best plywood options, and a comparison between particle board and plywood cabinets. So, if you're planning to invest in new kitchen cabinetry that will last for decades, keep reading!
What Are Plywood Cabinets?
A plywood cabinet is a type of storage or display furniture made primarily of plywood sheets. Plywood is a building material made from hardwood or softwood lumber that is cut and treated to create thin sheets. These sheets, known as veneers or plies, are then glued together with their wood grain rotated to 90 degrees against each other to improve strength.
Image: Kitchen interior with plywood cabinets
Plywood kitchen cabinets are versatile and durable. They have been in use since the 1920s and remain a popular choice due to their strength-to-weight ratio compared to other materials like MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard). Whether you prefer a Scandi-inspired kitchen or a classic country-themed interior, plywood cabinets can be easily customized to suit your design preferences.
Types of Plywood for Cabinets
Image: Stunning bright kitchen with plywood cabinets
There are several types of plywood grades typically used for kitchen cabinets. Let's take a look:
Hardwood Plywood
Image: Kitchen with hardwood plywood cabinets
Hardwood plywood is recommended for cabinet doors as they are visually exposed and subjected to wear. It is made from dense types of wood grains such as birch, oak, maple, and walnut. Hardwood plywood with Grade A, where defects are filled with synthetic fillers, provides a smooth surface suitable for paint or natural finishes.
Softwood Plywood
Image: Kitchen interior with softwood plywood kitchen cabinets
Softwood plywood is lighter in weight and is suitable for high vertical open shelving. It is typically made from spruce, cedar, or pine. However, it is not advisable for base cabinets or cabinets close to the water sink due to its susceptibility to water damage.
Decorative Veneers
Image: Modern kitchen with decorative veneers plywood cabinets
Decorative veneers provide a unique appeal to doorless cabinets, where the edges can be left exposed. The surface is covered with a thin slice of wood veneer, ensuring a smooth and sleek appearance.
Structural Plywood
Structural plywood, also known as sheathing plywood, is typically cheaper and has a strong and stable structure. It is recommended for cabinet framings and other structural parts with an unfinished surface.
Plywood Grades for Cabinets
Image: Kitchen with light color plywood cabinets
When choosing plywood for your kitchen cabinets, it's essential to consider the grades of both the front veneer and the back veneer. Here are the major plywood grades for cabinets:
Front Veneer
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Grade A: Considered the best plywood grade, with a cross-banded layering and smooth surface. It has a sleek finish that is suitable for painting or natural finishes. Birch plywood with Grade A is particularly durable and resistant to bowing or warping.
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Grade B: Slightly less smooth than Grade A and may have minor defects like tiny visible knots. These defects can be repaired before use.
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Grade C: Few visible defects, but knots are around 1.5 inches in diameter.
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Grade D: The most affordable among plywood grades, but not recommended for kitchen cabinets due to prominent knots and flaws.
Back Veneer
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Grade 1: No combined holes or repaired knots on the surface. Recommended if you plan to show the back of your cabinets.
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Grade 2 and 3: Considered mid-range grades with a few knotholes and repaired knots. Suitable for the back or structural parts of your kitchen cabinets.
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Grade 4: Classified as the reject grade, with many combined knotholes and repaired knots.
In addition to these grades, BWP (Boiling Water Proof) and BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) grades are recommended for plywood kitchen cabinets located in wet or damp areas. BWP grade plywood is entirely water-resistant, while BWR grade plywood can withstand being submerged in water for at least 8 hours.
Image: Beautiful kitchen with back veneer plywood cabinets
Cabinet Grade Plywood Thickness
Image: Spacious kitchen with plywood cabinets
The thickness of plywood used for cabinets can vary depending on the specific application. Here are the commonly used plywood thicknesses for kitchen cabinets:
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1/2 inch Plywood for Cabinets: Primarily used for drawer sides and lightweight materials. It is easy to work with and cost-effective for small cabinets that don't require heavy storage.
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5/8 Plywood Cabinets: Suitable for base cabinets or horizontal crosspiece braces. Its thickness provides stability to cabinet sides and is ideal for assembling sturdy drawer boxes or long-span shelves.
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3/4 Cabinet Grade Plywood: Considered cost-efficient, this thickness is commonly used in most cabinet structures. It provides the right balance between strength and weight. For cabinet doors, 3/4-inch plywood is recommended due to its ability to withstand constant use.
When comparing 5/8 plywood cabinets to 3/4 plywood cabinets, the latter is recommended for doors as it can withstand constant slamming and opening. However, if using 5/8 plywood, you can protect the edges by using wood around the door.
Best Plywood for Cabinets
Image: Traditional kitchen design with plywood cabinets
When choosing plywood for your kitchen cabinets, grade A plywood for the front face and number 1 for the back face are the best criteria to consider. Hardwoods are generally preferred as they are more durable than softwoods. However, it's crucial to choose the right hardwood species that works well with your desired finishing, whether it's painting or leaving a varnish that exposes the front veneers.
Consider the specific requirements of your cabinet structure. For cabinet backing, 1/4-inch plywood is usually sufficient, but if it needs to support shelves, opt for 1/2-inch plywood. Different thicknesses are used for drawer sides, backs, and sides to ensure the weight of the contents is adequately supported.
Particle Board Vs. Plywood Cabinets
Image: Beautiful spacious kitchen with plywood cabinets
Lastly, let's compare particle board and plywood cabinets:
Composition and Strength
Plywood is made with layers of wood pilings covered with a veneer, while particle boards are made from wood chips bonded together with resin. Plywood has a more durable structure, thanks to its cross-grain texture and stronger adhesives, making it a sensible option for kitchen cabinets subjected to wear and tear.
Workability and Construction
Plywood's structure allows for easier assembly using nails, screws, or glue, offering design flexibility. In contrast, particle boards are less suitable for gluing or nailing, but they are less likely to warp easily due to their composition.
Cost
Plywood is generally more expensive than particle boards. However, it is more durable and visually appealing, making it a worthwhile investment in long-lasting kitchen cabinets.
Moisture Resistance
Plywood is generally moisture-resistant and maintains its structural integrity when exposed to minimal water. Particle boards, on the other hand, are susceptible to damage from moisture and will swell if subjected to prolonged water exposure.
Use
Particle boards are a cost-effective quick fix for kitchens, making them a good choice if you are on a tight budget. However, if you want cabinets that will stand the test of time, plywood is an excellent option in most kitchen cabinetry situations.
And there you have it – a comprehensive guide to plywood kitchen cabinets! By understanding the different types and grades of plywood, you can make an informed decision when investing in your kitchen cabinetry. Whether you choose hardwood plywood, softwood plywood, or decorative veneers, plywood cabinets offer durability, versatility, and timeless appeal.
