How to Choose Cabinet Materials? A Complete Guide for Homeowners and Contractors

Choosing the right cabinet materials is one of the most important decisions when renovating a kitchen or bathroom. Whether you're a homeowner planning your dream remodel or a contractor managing multiple projects, the material you choose will affect the durability, appearance, and cost of the cabinets.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common cabinet materials used in North America and help you decide which one best fits your needs.

1. Solid Wood Cabinets

Solid wood is one of the most desirable cabinet materials due to its natural beauty and strength. Popular wood species include maple, cherry, oak, and walnut.

Pros:

• High-end appearance with natural wood grain

• Strong and long-lasting

• Can be sanded and refinished

Cons:

• Higher cost

• Can expand or warp with moisture if not sealed properly

Best For: Homeowners looking for timeless style, premium finishes, and long-term durability.

2. Plywood (Multi-Layer Solid Wood)

Plywood is a popular engineered wood product made from layers of wood veneer. It offers a good balance of strength and affordability.

Pros:

• Strong and stable

• Moisture-resistant (especially marine-grade plywood)

• Cost-effective compared to solid wood

Cons:

• Quality depends on the grade and core material

• Edges may need additional treatment

Best For: Contractors and families who want durable cabinets without paying for solid wood.

3. Particle Board (Chipboard)

Particle board is made from wood chips and resin, then compressed into sheets. It's one of the most budget-friendly cabinet options.

Pros:

• Low cost

• Smooth surface for veneers or laminates

• Lightweight

Cons:

• Lower durability

• Poor moisture resistance

• Weaker screw-holding capacity

Best For: Short-term solutions, rental properties, or low-budget projects.

4. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

MDF is another engineered wood product, made by breaking down hardwood or softwood fibers and binding them with resin under pressure.

Pros:

• Very smooth surface, ideal for painted finishes

• Uniform texture, no grain

• More affordable than solid wood

Cons:

• Not moisture-resistant

• Heavier than particle board

• Can swell or crack if exposed to water

Best For: Painted cabinets, molded door panels, and families who want a sleek modern look.

5. What to Consider When Choosing Cabinet Materials

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your cabinet materials:

✔ Budget: Material prices can vary widely. Set a realistic budget before shopping.

✔ Durability Needs: How long do you plan to live in the home? Invest in higher quality for long-term use.

✔ Moisture Exposure: For kitchens and bathrooms, moisture resistance is essential.

✔ Style Preference: Some materials work better with certain finishes—e.g., MDF for painted doors, solid wood for stained finishes.

✔ Environmental Safety: Check for formaldehyde emissions and eco-certifications, especially for engineered wood.

📍 Cabinet Experts in Los Angeles

At Evergreen Cabinet, we help contractors, developers, and homeowners find the perfect kitchen cabinet materials for their needs. Whether you're looking for solid wood cabinets, or high quality HDF (a denser, more durable version of MDF) cabinets, we’ve got you covered.

🛠️ Located in City of Industry, CA, we offer fast delivery, expert advice, and competitive wholesale pricing.

📞 Ready to Get Started?

Contact Evergreen Cabinet today for a free estimate or visit our showroom to compare materials in person.

✅ Trusted kitchen cabinet wholesaler in Los Angeles✅ Serving designers, contractors, and developers✅ Quality materials — great prices — fast delivery