Choosing between Particle Board and Plywood when Contemplating Cabinetry

Cabinets play an essential role in every kitchen. Not only do they contribute to the overall aesthetic of your cooking space, but they also give your kitchen functionality by creating room to store dishes, appliances, and even food. When choosing new cabinetry, a homeowner has the option of using plywood or particle board. The two materials have different characteristics and have differing benefits to consider. To aid you in your journey of making your dream kitchen a reality, we have drawn up a list of things to keep in mind when contemplating your cabinetry construction.

Plywood: 

Plywood is made from thin layers of wood sheets that are glued together in alternating grain-patterns and compressed to form a larger, stronger sheet. Looking for a material that will not only last for years but also provide a polished and trimmed exterior? Plywood is just right for you and a worth-while investment for your future kitchen. Here are some pros and cons of plywood to help you as the homeowner decipher if this material will be present in your remodel.

Pros:

  • Easier shipment and install
  • Holds screws better than low quality particleboard
  • Holds glue joints together well
  • Resistant to shrinkage and expansion
  • Combats water damage (making it good for kitchens)
  • Can be manufactured using several wood species with a variety of thickness

Cons:

  • Can be 10-20% more expensive than particleboard
  • Can warp, bow or twist
  • Might have some natural defects

Particle Board: 

Our industrial grade particleboard is a real wood reconstituted with glue (or other adhesives) then compressed into sheets. Particleboard has come a long way since the 60’s thanks to advanced sciences and technological innovations. Many plywood manufacturers make particleboard from remaining scraps of wood, and as a result, it is cheaper to obtain. Below, we highlighted the pros and cons of using particleboard when transforming your kitchen.

Pros:

  • Thickness is more precise and uniform
  • Superior mechanical fastening than most basic plywood
  • Will not warp, bow, or twist. This makes it a superior product for frameless cabinetry.
  • Cost-effective (made from inexpensive materials like wood chips, wood shavings, occasionally resin)
  • Great dimensional stability (consistently maintains accurate dimensions throughout the sheet)

Cons:

  • Some argue it is not quite as durable since it’s made from a wood paste
  • Lacks moisture resistance (to address this problem many manufacturers seal the bottom edges of cabinet boxes with a clear coat)
  • Heavy
  • Harder to install

Still not sure what is right for you? At Kitchen Solvers, we work with you to understand your lifestyle and needs for your kitchen remodel. Work with a team of experts to transform your kitchen into the kitchen of your dreams, with high-quality and durable cabinets. Find a location near you today to get started!

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