Choosing the right wood for your kitchen cabinets is just as important as the design, the finish, the hardware, etc. Custom kitchen cabinets allow for the most variety. When making the decision, there are a lot of factors to take into account – in this article, you will learn the benefits of each type of wood.
The Cabinet Go-To: Oak
Oak is the most common wood used for making cabinets. Whether you are purchasing RTA (Ready To Assemble) cabinets, or are using the services of a contractor to create custom cabinets, chances are Oak will be the first material presented to you. There are over 200 different varieties of Oak, making it an incredibly versatile and varied building material. You will find that a natural, or honey finish are the most popular. Oak has many benefits: it is a strong, dense material that expertly sustains everyday use. It also absorbs a stain beautifully. Oak is a fantastic building material in cabinets with invisible frames. This style of cabinetry is increasingly popular in modern style kitchens.
Reliable Maple
If you don’t immediately opt for Oak, your contractor will probably suggest Maple. Ready to Assemble cabinetry originating from China is often made from Maple, where to tree grows prolifically. However, there is also an abundance of more local Maple that makes for an amazing cabinetry material. There are ten commonly used varieties in Canada and the US that offer homeowners a beautiful selection of grains. Choose from a subtle, largely uniform grain with the odd “bird’s eye” dot or mineral streak throughout. Maple looks its best within the Honey to Chestnut Glaze spectrum.
Good Old Cherry
When it comes to custom kitchens, quality – at times more expensive – materials are a must. Cherry is becoming increasingly popular for mid to high priced kitchen cabinets. Cherry is a unique material. Over time, even after a light stain, Cherry gets darker and darker. Imagine antique Cherry furniture – that reddish brown hue takes years and years to attain. For those who love this look and plan to keep the same cabinets for years, Cherry is a beautiful, and historically appealing option that is ideal for cabinets with raised panels, or those built in a French or English style.
Luxurious Mahogany
If you love the sumptuous, luxurious look of Mahogany furniture, you can also have that in the kitchen! Mahogany, which looks reddish brown, and stains well is one of the most expensive cabinetry materials. While Mahogany is not the most common cabinetry material, it is certainly one of the most showstopping. The beauty of choosing Mahogany for your kitchen cabinets is the ability to create a uniform look throughout your home. If you already love your Mahogany office furniture, or dining room table, extending the look into your kitchen gives you the opportunity to tie your home together.
There are dozens of types of wood that you could choose for your kitchen cupboards. In addition to Oak, Maple, Cherry, and Mahogany, other popular types include Alder, Birch, and Hickory. Each wood features a different style of grain as well as their own unique set of benefits. Speak to a Wright Kitchens representative today to discuss your new kitchen cabinets!