When it comes to bathroom remodeling, there are quite a few decisions for Bathroom Cabinetry Materials that you’ll have to make. Whether or not to go for flat-pack bathroom cabinets or fully-assembled bathroom cabinets may be on your mind, but you should also be considering what material will work best in your bathroom. While there are a variety of materials to choose from, your decision will ultimately depend on your budget, style, and how high durability ranks on your priority list.
Solid Wood
There is nothing like the beauty of solid wood furniture. Its strength and durability mean that wood remains the preferred option for cabinetry by many homeowners, contractors, and builders alike. The fact that it can be repaired, unlike other materials, also makes it appealing. However, you should keep in mind that wood cabinets may not be the best option for your bathroom. Wood cabinets tends to shrink and expand as humidity levels change. This expansion can cause cracks in finishes and, in extreme cases, even warping. If you are considering using solid wood bathroom cabinetry, keep in mind that you’ll have to ensure it is properly sealed and maintained.
Wood Veneer
Wood veneer is a finish made from thin slices of wood taken from tree logs and then glued to different engineered woods such as plywood or MDF. It is much cheaper than solid wood but gives a similar aesthetic, making it a popular material in fully-assembled bathroom cabinets. As it is a natural product, wood veneer is quite durable, usually lasting longer than synthetic products such as laminates and thermofoil.
What you should keep in mind, however, is that wood veneer is prone to water damage if exposed for prolonged periods, and it cannot be repaired like wood can. This means that it will require a sealant, as well as periodic polishing, to maintain its durability and high-quality aesthetic.
Laminate
You can find a variety of laminates, a synthetic coating glued to cabinet boxes or doors, of different quality and variety of finishes, which is why they are so popular for fully-assembled bathroom cabinets. Keep in mind that, like all things, you usually get what you pay for, so a cheaper laminate will probably mean lower quality.
Laminate is easy to clean, making it ideal for the bathroom, however, it needs to be properly cared for, or the finish can chip. Keep in mind that if laminate coating gets scratched or dented, then moisture can penetrate and damage the cabinet box, and this will be difficult to repair.
Thermofoil
Thermofoil, which is a plastic product, offers an affordable solution for fully-assembled bathroom cabinets. Its non-porous composition leaves a smooth, consistent finish that looks great and is easy to clean. However, while it doesn’t stain easily, thermofoil is prone to peeling and chipping, particularly on the edges of doors, and it is difficult to resurface. It is also sensitive to heat, although this may not be an issue in your bathroom.
Whatever your style and budget, the wide range of materials available in bathroom cabinetry means that you are sure to find the right fit for your bathroom.
