Are you in the process of remodeling your kitchen? If so, you need to make a crucial decision on your kitchen cabinets. Do you want to use solid wood or MDF for the construction material? Here are some things you need to know before you make a decision

What To Know About MDF

MDF stands for medium-density fiberboard, and it is a type of wood that is made from tiny wood fibers that are molded back to the shape of a board using glue. It is often used when people want to paint wood cabinets because the smooth nature of MDF makes it easier to paint due to a lack of grain. The wood can also be shaped to the precise shape that you want with a router without worrying about it cracking.

Many people pick MDF because the MDF surface is what is going to be showing, especially if they want to paint the wood a non-traditional color. You typically don't put a veneer on top of the MDF to give it a different look, since veneers are more often put on top of plywood cabinets to change the look.

What To Know About Solid Wood

As the name implies, solid wood cabinets are made out of a solid piece of wood, which many people like because it is real wood. They want to see those natural grains in the wood and are looking to stain the wood a natural color rather than paint it a non-traditional color. 

When it comes to the longevity of solid wood cabinets, know that solid wood is going to be easier to repair and resurface. Since you can't sand an MDF cabinet surface, you won't be able to completely transform the look of the cabinets later on. With solid wood, sanding is always an option to get them back to their natural color.

Solid wood also is a heavier material for kitchen cabinets. It's possible that you do not like this for the doors and prefer a lighter material instead so that they are easier to use on a daily basis. Solid wood cabinets are also prone to cracking and bowing and can be damaged by humidity. 

As you can tell, there are a lot of differences between MDF and solid wood cabinets. Reach out to a kitchen cabinet manufacturer in your area if you still need help selecting a cabinet material for your new kitchen.