The wooden kitchen cabinets should be considered as a perfect combination of form and function. Not only do you have the durability and solid construction of wood, but you have her beauty, warmth and elegance as well.
There are many different types of woods to choose from including hardwoods such as ash, oak and maple, and softer woods such as walnut and cherry. Each type of wood has its advantages and disadvantages, including the price you can expect to pay for it and the best ways to use it. In addition to the woods listed, there are other options including less common woods such as birch, hickory, pine, beech and exotics such as mahogany and ebony.
Wood kitchen cabinet costs
While additional features such as bins, drawers, baskets, Lazy Susan or custom-ordered types of hardware can raise the cost of your wood kitchen cabinets, some woods just cost more to begin with than others. Pine is one of the least expensive types of wood in most cases while maple and oak tend to be moderately priced. Walnuts and cherries, especially high grade cherries, can be more expensive and exotic woods like mahogany and ebony are the most expensive of all.
The less blemishes or imperfections a wood has, the more expensive it will be as well. This is true, even for lower end woods such as pine. A pine cabinet without stains and even color will cost more than one that has knot holes or color variations.
Tips for buying wooden kitchen cabinets
1. Real wood kitchen cabinets are great because they are strong and last for many years, but they are also it raises the property value of your home. If you have a kitchen that has MDF products such as engineered wood, particle board and fiber board, they typically cannot withstand regular use in the kitchen.
2. You also have to decide between soft wood or hardwood. Typically, hardwood is preferable for kitchen cabinets and it is advisable that you opt for that. Hardwoods such as walnut, oak, ash, cherry, mahogany and maple offer longevity and durability.
3. Although custom built wood cabinets may be more expensive, they are built to fit into your kitchen. They are unique. On the other hand, ready-made wooden kitchen cabinets may not match the unique design of your kitchen, more so if you had an odd-shaped kitchen.
4. Another option to consider with your wooden kitchen cabinets is ready to assemble. Not only will you save money, you will also save on shipping and handling fees as well. Wooden cabinets that come in pieces rather than already assembled may suffer less damage in transit as well. In addition, if you are a do-it-yourself type of person, then you will enjoy the installation work. If you’re not handy, however, you can have your RTA cabinets installed by professionals and still be ahead.
5. Choose a wood that suits your taste and style, and one that will allow you to enjoy your kitchen for many years. For a light look, choose woods like beech, ash, oak, birch, chestnut or maple. For a distinct grain pattern choose woods such as walnut, hickory, oak or ash. Choose woods such as glade or maple if you want a more even structure.
6. It is advisable to look at samples before deciding which type of wood to go for. Some of the leading manufacturers of wooden kitchen cabinets are: Kraftmaid, Merillat, Thomasville and Artistokraft.
7. Woods of different types can be mixed together beautifully and are often used together for a decorative effect. You can use cheap wood for the main cabinet and then punch up its look with accents and other touches of higher woods.
8. If your intention is to paint your wooden kitchen cabinets as soon as they are installed, then it is perfectly sensible to choose the lower priced varieties of wood rather than the higher end. After all, what’s the point in buying a beautiful cherry cabinet if you’re just going to paint it white? If, however, you use expensive wood, use stain as you will the natural beauty of the wood comes out and will give your kitchen a classic feel and look.
9. Order wooden kitchen cabinets online: The Internet is a great option not only for online stores but also for major stores and retailers whose websites will contain details of models and prices. TheRTAStore.com is one such website that offers wooden kitchen cabinets online (sponsored link).
We take care of wooden kitchen cabinets
Use a soft cloth, a little warm water and mild soap to clean the wooden kitchen cabinets. However, make sure not to leave any water on the surface of the wood. If not wiped off quickly, over time, too much water can cause damage to your finish.
At regular intervals and between washes, it is a good idea to clean your wooden kitchen cabinets with a good furniture polish. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or any type of liquids that have acetone on your wooden kitchen cabinets. The chemicals present can discolor and even damage your cabinets.
It is recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions (if any) for the maintenance and cleaning of your wooden kitchen cabinets.
