Selecting the right wood for your cabinets is a big decision. You will be looking at them for years to come, so you want to make sure they are as beautiful as they are reliable. There are so many different types of wood to choose from when it comes to cabinetry that you may want to learn a little more about them before you make your choice.

Get the most bang for your buck by finding out what different types of cabinet wood are like and whether or not they’re worth the splurge.

Why Choose Wood Kitchen Cabinets?

Lacquered cabinets and even stainless steel cabinets are on trend right now, but nothing remains as timeless or as durable as wood cabinets. They are sure to stand the test of time – especially if you choose the right type of wood. With so many to choose from, here’s a crash course on the different purposes of different types of wood cabinets. After your cooking appliances, outdoor kitchen cabinets countertops, and storage are the most vital components of your outdoor kitchen.

Different Types of Wood Cabinets

Here is a closer look at some of the more common wooden cabinet choices available:

·      Cherry Wood: With their red coloring, cherry wood cabinets are very distinct. They can vary from deep red undertones to deep brown, but they always remain very eye-catching. It is a moderately strong wood that is resistant to shock. This makes cherry wood a solid choice for durability and longevity.

·      Maple Wood: This very durable wood is usually a softer color, like a white or light beige. However, it is one of the strongest types of wood you can find. It is relatively affordable for the durability it provides.

·      Birch Wood: This type of wood is quite strong, and as far as wooden cabinets go, the most affordable good quality wood there is. Its pale color shows off the fine detailing of this type of wood. Plus, it has a very elegant and refined look to it.

·      Alder Wood: The light brow undertones of Alder wood make it a trendy choice for anyone who wants a bright-looking kitchen. It may not be as durable as birch or maple, but alder wood is still a relatively dependable choice.

·      Oak Wood: This type of wood has a very unique finish to it. In addition, it is a very dense, high-quality wood. You can count on oak to survive just about anything. However, it is a slightly more expensive option when it comes to wooden cabinetry choices.

Best Wood for Kitchen Cabinets

The best choice for cabinets is really the strongest, densest wood that suits your budget. Hardwood cabinets can withstand a lot. Depending on how long you plan to keep your cabinets or how much you have to spend, you should opt for the toughest material you can find.

Birch vs. Maple

Both strong woods —  many people find themselves unable to choose between the two. There are some minor differences you may want to take into account when making your decision.

The most apparent difference between the two is the price. Maple is a slightly more expensive option than birch wood. That’s because maple wood is also harder, tougher, and more resistant to scratches. While both are durable, and the differences between the two are hardly noticeable, it’s clear that maple is a slightly higher-end choice.

Kitchen Cabinet Wood Colors

Depending on the wood you choose, colors can range from nearly white to a deep, lustrous brown. Of course, you can also stain your kitchen cabinets to transform them. Cherry colored wood is among one of the most popular choices for kitchen cabinet staining.

What Is the Cheapest Wood?

Spruce, pine, and fir wood are among the cheapest types of wood on the market. However, they are also very light and not very durable. These options are much less expensive, but you won’t get nearly the same longevity out of them. These cheap woods are not ideal for kitchen cabinets.

What Is Wood Grain?

The wood grain is the texture and the look of the wood. Some wood has a straight grain, which appears as straight lines running through the wood. Others have U-shaped grain. Woodgrain adds to the style and elegance of the wood. It should always be cut following the grain pattern, as well.

What Is Cabinet Plywood?

Within your cabinets, you will need slats of plywood (for shelving, siding, etc.). Plywood should also be made of durable wood like maple, oak, or birch. The quality of the wood will make a difference in how easily the wood can be worked with and how long it will last.

Are Wood Kitchen Cabinets a Deal Breaker?

If you are flipping or plan to sell your home, remember that cutting costs on the kitchen cabinets isn’t the wisest choice. Homebuyers take the kitchen into consideration more than any other room in the house. Strong, sturdy cabinets will certainly catch their eyes. Cheap, flimsy cabinets can ruin the entire look of your home.

The Takeaway

Choosing the wood for your kitchen cabinets is a big decision. You need to research all the different types of wood and compare your research to your budget constraints. It is always best to choose the firmest, strongest wood you can afford because you will get more longevity out of your cabinets if they are made from a reliable wood.

However, you may be planning to move shortly after your kitchen remodel and may not want to splurge. Maybe you’re flipping a home and want to invest the least. Just keep in mind that kitchen wood cabinets are a huge selling point for future homebuyers. High-quality wood is always a safe investment.

If you’re still not sure which wood to choose, ask your wood supply shop to provide you with small samples. This way, you can get a sense of how the wood feels and how it will look in your kitchen. You can also have the wood stained to see which finish is most to your taste.

Choosing any finishing product for your home is a big decision. Take your time and select the product that best fits with your vision and your lifestyle.