Have you ever been asked to make cabinets but your client didn’t know what material to use? This can be confusing, because there are so many types of plywood for cabinets on the market. From economical to premium quality, each has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the design requirements and location of the cabinet.
If you choose the wrong material, the end result may not be optimal, or the cabinet may quickly become damaged. Confusing, isn’t it? So, in order for you to give the right recommendations to customers and produce more professional results, let’s take a look at this complete guide!
Why is Choosing the Right Plywood Important?
Plywood is not just a wood covering. This material plays a major role in:
- The strength of the structure so that the cabinet does not warp or bend easily.
- Resistance to moisture and termites, especially if the cabinet is placed in a damp area.
- Ease of finishing, whether it is easy to paint, laminate, or veneer.
- Aesthetics, wood grain appearance, surface patterns, color
So, if you choose cheap but poor-quality plywood from a supplier, your cabinets could end up dented, with peeling paint, or loose joints. That’s why it’s important to know the types of plywood for cabinets.
Various Types of Plywood Suitable for Cabinets
To make it easier for you, here are the types of plywood that are often used in cabinet making, complete with their advantages and things to consider. Check them out one by one!
1. Hard Wood Plywood
This type of plywood is made from layers of hard wood such as meranti, mahogany, or teak. This type is known for its high strength and stability in bearing loads. The finish also looks neater and more luxurious, suitable for premium furniture. However, due to its high quality, hardwood plywood tends to be more expensive. In addition, the cutting process is quite difficult if you don’t use the right tools.
2. Softwood Plywood
Unlike hardwood, softwood plywood usually uses materials such as albasia or sengon. This type is lighter and easier to cut, making it popular among furniture makers who prioritize ease of workmanship. However, keep in mind that it is not as strong as hardwood. This plywood is not suitable for cabinets that have to support heavy loads and is more prone to damage if exposed to moisture for too long.
3. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) Plywood
MDF plywood is made from wood fibers compressed with resin under high pressure. Its distinctive feature is its very smooth surface, making it ideal for duco paint finishing or minimalist designs. However, MDF is quite sensitive to water; if exposed to high humidity, this material can swell and become damaged. Therefore, it should only be used in dry areas.
4. Blockboard / Plywood
This type of plywood is perhaps the most commonly used in the furniture industry. Made from several layers of wood arranged crosswise, blockboard or plywood has excellent structural strength and does not warp easily. However, due to its thickness and density, it is heavier than softwood types. Even so, many craftsmen choose it because of its combination of strength and durability.
5. Melamine Plywood / Melaminto
Want a neat finish without the need for additional finishing? Melamine plywood could be the right choice. Its surface is coated with melamine, which makes it smooth, shiny, and resistant to light scratches. However, there is one drawback: if the melamine coating peels off, it is difficult to repair and usually needs to be replaced.
6. Marine Plywood / Waterproof Plywood
For damp areas such as bathrooms or semi-open spaces, marine plywood is the best choice. This plywood is specially designed to be moisture-resistant and anti-fungal, making it suitable for furniture in extreme environments. Unfortunately, it is more expensive than other types. However, when it comes to the durability of plywood for cabinets, the quality is worth the investment.
7. HMR Plywood
HMR plywood is similar to MDF but has moisture resistance and is ideal for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and areas that require high moisture resistance.
Now that you know the types of plywood for cabinets along with their advantages and disadvantages, it’s time to make your choice and start your furniture project! Remember, choosing plywood is not just about price, but also about function, location, and finishing requirements. Plywood for bedroom cabinets is certainly different from that used in kitchens or damp areas. By choosing the right material, you can produce cabinets that are not only strong and durable, but also neat and professional-looking.
Of course, you are looking for high-quality wood or plywood, right? Check out the complete range of products from Hojaya! As a trusted distributor of wood and plywood, we provide a wide selection of plywood, from multiplex, MDF, melamine, to marine plywood that is suitable for various furniture needs. With high-quality standards and professional service, Hojaya is ready to be your reliable partner in every project.
So, don’t wait until your cabinets are damaged to replace the materials. Make sure you use the best plywood from Hojaya from the start, so the results are more solid, durable, and definitely satisfy your customers!