MADE IN THE USA
Are Thermofoil Cabinets Good?
Thermofoil cabinets are a great choice if you are planning a remodel or cabinet refacing project. If you have been browsing options already, you have probably already seen countless cabinet door styles and dozens of materials. Each of these materials varies in durability, aesthetics, and cost. For homeowners on a tight budget and are looking for a wide range of styles and colors, look no further than thermofoil cabinets. Thermofoil kitchen cabinets are known for their variety and cost-effectiveness.
But one question that homeowners keep asking is, “are thermofoil cabinets good?”. Laminate cabinets have come a long way since their inception in the early 20th century. In this blog, we are going to look at why thermofoil cabinets might by right for you!
What Are Thermofoil Kitchen Cabinets?
Laminates are synthetic materials that can be pressed onto particleboard, also known as compressed wood. These laminates can be found in a wide variety of compositions for different applications. Our laminate cabinets are made with thermofoil, which is a vinyl laminate that is heated and pressurized onto an MDF core.
For your kitchen cabinet box, particleboard or pressed wood is used to keep the cabinetry price low. Together, the thermofoil cabinet doors and inexpensive cabinet boxes can last as long as ten years, making it ideal for starter homes.
Wood vs. Thermofoil?
Even though laminate kitchen cabinets have had a terrible reputation and are often associated with particleboard or plastic. Today, newer products like thermofoil can stand its ground against traditional wood cabinets. Each of these materials has pros and cons that you need to weigh before making a choice. To help make your decision easier, let's take a look at how these materials stack up with each other.
Thermofoil Kitchen Cabinets Pros & Cons
Thermofoil kitchen cabinets offer homeowners variety and accessibility to beautiful cabinetry that are both cost-effective and durable. While thermofoil laminate cabinets have many benefits, there are also a few disadvantages that you need to take into consideration. Before making your final decision, here are the pros and cons of thermofoil laminate kitchen cabinets:
Pros
- Cost: The most significant advantage of thermofoil kitchen cabinets is that they are cost-effective. However, the reduced price point does not mean these are a budget product. Thermofoil is a quality vinyl laminate that is heated and pressurized onto an MDF core, which is one of the most sought after building materials at the moment.
- Durable: Not only do thermofoil kitchen cabinets look great, but they are also durable. The material used to create laminate cabinets can resist gradual erosion caused by mechanical, physical, and chemical actions. It is also scratch and stain-resistant, which means it can easily be cleaned and will last around a decade with proper care.
- Variety: One of the biggest benefits to ordering thermofoil cabinets is the wide selection of textures and colors available. Whether you are looking for something trendy to set your modern kitchen apart, or you want to have a wood grain texture without the expense of solid wood, thermofoil has options for every kitchen design.
- Arrives Finished: Unlike solid wood cabinets that require a paint or stain finish, thermofoil cabinets arrive already finished. This save time and money for you. In addition, you can have your thermofoil doors pre-bored for hinges when you order, so that when they arrive at your door they are ready to mount.
Cons
- Damage: Despite their durability, thermofoil kitchen cabinets are prone to damage. Additionally, thermofoil cabinets can be sensitive to excessive heat and moisture, so it is best to keep this in mind when thinking about placement. Heat shields are a great product you can use to protect your thermofoil cabinets from high-heat sources like your oven.
- Repair: Once damaged, thermofoil kitchen cabinets are difficult to repair. If you get a deep cut or crack on your cabinet door, you will not be able to patch or replace the thermofoil covering yourself. However, there are companies that will repair thermofoil doors.
- Resale Value: If you're looking to add value to your home, you better off going with solid wood kitchen cabinets. Due to the low cost and easy access to laminate, it does not add to your home's resale value.
Trendy Thermofoil Finishes
Now that you've decided on thermofoil cabinetry, you need to choose the best type of finishes for your kitchen. And so, here are a few of our favorite options:
- Matte Finish: For a moderate reflectiveness and a consistent, standard finish, go with a matte finish. Not only does this type of finish give your kitchen an elegant look, but it is also resistant to scratches and dust.
- Gloss Finish: With a mirror-like sheen, gloss finish thermofoil will give you a luxurious look and feel to your kitchen. It also adds a brightness by reflecting light like no other cabinetry. Gloss finishes are great for small or dark kitchens.
- Textured: Add depth and dimension to your kitchen with textured finish cabinets. Textured thermofoil simulates the look and feel of various materials, including raw silk, solid wood, and stone.
- Metal Finish: For a sleek, modern look, consider a metallic finish. This type of thermofoil adds a richness and high-end look that'll have your guest in awe. You can get this modern finish in colors like silver, copper, and rose gold.
Solid Wood Kitchen Cabinets Pros & Cons
Classic and traditional are two words that perfectly sum up solid wood cabinets. For decades, this material has been used to create beautiful cabinetry that is strong, beautiful, and can last you a lifetime. But with all its perks, it also has a few disadvantages. Before making your decision on solid wood cabinets, take a few minutes to read through the pro and cons of this type of cabinetry:
Pros
- Durability: If you're looking for a robust material for your cabinets, opt for solid wood. Solid wood kitchen cabinets can last for decades, which is why most homeowners opt for this material.
- Value For Money: In addition to its longevity, solid wood definitely gives you great value for money. Even though it comes with a high price tag, solid wood cabinets have a great return on investment.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: For a classic or traditional look and feel for your kitchen, add solid wood cabinets. No matter what type of wood your choose, each comes with a beautiful grain that adds interest and detail to your kitchen design. We suggest you opt for maple, red oak, or cherry, which all have beautiful grain patterns.
Cons
- Expensive: Compared to any other material, solid wood can be costly. If you're a homeowner on a budget, the exorbitant price tag can be overwhelming.
- Damage: With increased temperatures and humidity, solid wood can warp and crack. Additionally, unfinished solid wood is not water-resistant and will be damaged by any moisture.
- Pests: Solid wood is natural wood, so if left unfinished, it is vulnerable to bug infestation. To ensure this does not happen, you need to use the right finish and maintain it regularly.
Final Thoughts
As a budget-conscious homeowner, your best option could be to go with thermofoil kitchen cabinets. Even though it has had a bad reputation in the past, it is an extremely durable, customizable, and maintainable cabinetry type today. It is also the perfect option for homeowners who enjoy changing the look of their kitchen or who like to have lots of color options. On the other hand, wood cabinet doors are a great long term investment in any kitchen. Overall, thermofoil kitchen cabinets are an excellent choice for any home and any kitchen design.
If you are ready to start ordering or if you need assistance, please feel free to call us at 1-855-669-5222 or send us an email at info@cabinetnow.com. Our team of cabinet experts is here to help with everything from measuring to ordering.
