Your cabinets are one of your kitchen’s major components, so how can you tell if you have thermofoil kitchen cabinets? Knowing the material that makes up your cabinets is important, especially if you’re considering moving home. Everyone knows that your kitchen plays a key part in the value of your property. Knowing your cabinets’ material can have an impact if you’re hoping to get as high an asking price as possible.
While solid wood cabinets are popular with prospective homebuyers, thermofoil cabinets are desirable too. Modern thermofoil cabinetry comes in many different colors, styles, and finishes. Thermofoil is also low maintenance, which makes it appealing to home purchasers. Here, we take a look at how to determine whether your cabinets are thermofoil or another material.
Identifying Thermofoil Cabinetry
Thermofoil cabinets are not the same thing as solid wood cabinets. They have a core made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard) with a coating of vinyl laminate. The vinyl laminate is heated and then applied under pressure to the core. Thermofoil cabinets have a smooth surface with a solid and robust structure.
You can spot thermofoil cabinetry by looking for a few key details.
First, there will be no seams around the door joints as there would be with a solid wood cabinet. Also, the color may be a shade not found in natural wood, even if it has a wood grain appearance. You should also check the back of the cabinet, as it may not match the front of the door. One key identifier of thermofoil cabinetry is that it will have arrived to your jobsite in a finished condition. There is no need to add a stain, paint, or varnish to a thermofoil cabinet.
Also Read: What Are Thermofoil Cabinets, And Are They Right For My Kitchen?
Identifying Solid Wood Cabinetry
Solid wood cabinets are a very popular choice amongst homeowners for two primary reasons – they’re durable and attractive. There are some key features to look for to determine whether your cabinets are solid wood. The cabinets will be varnished, painted, or stained, and there will be no repeating patterns. There may also be moldings or carvings – it’s impossible to achieve these effects with thermofoil. You’ll also notice a wood grain texture, but remember that some thermofoil cabinets also have a wood grain finish.
Spotting The Differences
It may be more difficult than you imagined to tell the difference between a wood cabinet and a thermofoil one. Today’s thermofoil cabinets are high quality and built to last, just like wood cabinets. In some cases, they can also mimic the appearance of solid wood with textured finishes. Gone are the days when thermofoil cabinets looked obviously manufactured. Today’s thermofoil cabinetry looks as good as the genuine article.
Thermofoil also offers advantages that wood doesn’t. There is no need to add a finish to the surface of a thermofoil cabinet. They are also low maintenance, more affordable, and available in many colors, styles, and finishes. With all of these advantages in mind, it’s no wonder thermofoil is increasing in popularity.
If you’re looking for robust, affordable, and attractive thermofoil kitchen cabinets, check out the range at RCD Cabinets. You’re sure to find something that’s perfect for your kitchen.
