A variety of designs and a great price are just two of the things that recommend laminated kitchen cabinets to so many different people.
There are two basic components to laminate kitchen cabinets. The surface material is a thin sheet of plastic. This sheet is attached to some other material, such as particleboard or plywood.
Benefits of laminate kitchen cabinets
- There is many different types of laminate cabinets when it comes to styles, textures, colors and patterns. Do you have a decor that is difficult to accessorize? You can probably find something that suits you in the world of laminate kitchen cabinets. Whatever color you hope to find, from black to white, to red to purple, to cream and beige, you will find a color that works for you.
- Is your kitchen, or home in general, decorated with wood? There are laminate kitchen cabinets that simulate that look as well. Some of them are so well made, it’s very hard to tell it’s not real wood.
- Laminate kitchen cabinets are easy on your budget. Since it is man-made, it is less expensive to acquire and transport than actual wood. If you are looking to build or renovate without spending too much money, laminate cabinets are a good choice.
- If you don’t want to spend too much time cleaning, laminated kitchen cabinets are for you. They are stain resistantso you can wipe them down with a sponge and bring it on.
- Laminate kitchen cabinet will not fade if exposed to direct sunlight.
Limitations of laminate kitchen cabinets
- Laminate kitchen cabinets are the cheapest option. Sometimes they seem like the cheapest option too. In many cases, it’s easy to tell that your laminate cabinets are just that.
- Laminate kitchen cabinets tend to be less sturdy than more expensive options, such as hardwood or metal.
- Since they are built in layers, laminate kitchen cabinets can be difficult to repair if damaged. In some cases, it is impossible to repair them completely.
- Refinishing laminate kitchen cabinets can be a problem sometimes because it requires special paint for the job.
- With some laminate kitchen cabinets with wood-like surfaces, it is still possible to tell that it is not natural wood, even from a distance.
Cost of laminate kitchen cabinets
The final price depends on a number of things, such as the general quality of construction and materials, design features, color and manufacturer. Useful features like Lazy Susans, bins, baskets, rollout pantry shelves, drawers and the like will cost more. Pulls, handles, door handles and other added hardware will also cost extra.
Buying tips for laminate kitchen cabinets
1. Wood or plywood base is the superior type of laminate kitchen cabinet. They will cost a little more, but they will also last much longer. Things like particleboard or MDF (medium density fiberboard) will sag if they don’t have sufficient support. They also won’t hold screws as well as harder or denser materials, which means that one day your drawers may become loose or even inoperable, and be nearly impossible to fix. Particleboard and fiberboard also have a tendency to absorb water, swelling and warping if they get wet.
2. Learn all about your warranty when you get your laminate kitchen cabinets. Major manufacturers, such as Aristokraft and Armstrong are your best bet for a good deal.
3. It will cost more to get your laminate kitchen cabinets custom made, but it’s also the best way to be sure it will match the rest of your kitchen. Stock cabinets may not match, especially if your kitchen has a unique shape.
4. When choosing a design for your cabinetry, think about how it will look with the rest of your kitchen. You don’t want your laminate cabinets to clash with your kitchen decor.
5. If you want a contemporary look, use flat surfaces, simple colors and clean lines. Traditional styles are best served by laminate kitchen cabinets with a wood-like surface.
6. RTA (ready to assemble) laminate kitchen cabinets save you money on price, as you have to assemble them yourself. They also cost less to ship because they can be packed tighter. This packaging also makes it much less likely that they will be damaged in transport. If you have the tools and knowledge, RTA installation can be the best possible option. If you’re not handy, though, you can have your laminate cabinets installed by professionals and still be ahead.
Maintenance of laminate kitchen cabinets
It is actually quite easy to clean laminate kitchen cabinets. A sponge and some water should do the trick. For really tough stains, all-purpose cleaners are fine as long as you avoid anything abrasive that will scratch the surface. Steel wool or scrubbing brushes should be avoided for similar reasons.
