The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the dynamics of the world entirely. It has increased our involvement in our homes. Therefore, a lot of awareness has been developed among people for their homes and their needs. The use of the kitchen, which was earlier limited to the cook or the homemaker, has now widened with almost every member of the house trying something new. So, we bring new kitchen materials for modular kitchen cabinets & more such as wood kitchens, plywood kitchens, stainless steel kitchens, etc.
Moreover, the kitchen has now become more of a gathering spot than just a place to cook and wash utensils. All of this has led to a sharp rise in demand for a well-furnished, modular kitchen. Unlike the traditional kitchen, the modular kitchen has modules designed and manufactured separately and then assembled together. Moreover, modular kitchen material has a greater aesthetic and utility value. It is easier to clean and offers more storage space.
There is a general conception among the masses (end users) that modular kitchens are expensive. Although the statement is not entirely untrue, the modular kitchen material used in the manufacture of the modules affects the budget directly.
There is a vast variety of modular kitchen material that is used in constructing a modular kitchen. They all have their strengths and drawbacks. Also, there are plenty of amazing kitchen finishes that enhance the look and working of the kitchen. This article will give you detailed information about the following modular kitchen materials, finishes, and aspects so that you can make the perfect choice for your kitchen:
If you want to buy top-quality modular kitchens from the best brands, click on the link given below to check your options and submit your inquiries:
For more details, contact below: WhatsApp Number: +91-9967632127 (Only message; no calls) |
Contents
- 1 Modular Kitchen Materials List
- 2 Modular Kitchen Material- Plywood
- 3 Modular Kitchen Material- Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
- 4 Modular Kitchen Material- High-Density Fiberboard (HDF)
- 5 Modular Kitchen Material- Solid Wood
- 6 Modular Kitchen Material- High-Pressure Laminates (HPL)
- 7
- 8 Modular Kitchen Material- Stainless Steel
- 9 Modular Kitchen Material- Chipboard
- 10 Modular Kitchen Material Price Range
- 11 Comparison between Modular Kitchen Material
- 12 Kitchen finishes
- 13 Conclusion
- 14 Functional Vs Designer Modular Kitchens: What should you pick?
Modular Kitchen Materials List
- Plywood
- MDF
- HDF
- Solid Wood
- HPL
- Stainless Steel
- Chipboard
| Also read: Top 10 modular kitchen brands | Best modular kitchen brands |
Modular Kitchen Material- Plywood
Image Source: Plykea
Plywood is one of the most popular cabinet kitchen materials used for making the cabinets of a modular kitchen. It is manufactured by pasting several layers of veneered wood pressed together with resins. It is sturdy, durable, and can withstand heavyweight.
Plywood is extensively used in modular Kitchen material, Panelling and interiors, External cladding, Flooring, and much more
| Also read: How to design the perfect small modular kitchen? |
Advantages of Plywood
- Durability
Plywood comes in different thicknesses for the kitchen. The most preferred thickness is ½-inch but it ranges from 1/8 -inch to ¾ inches. The commercial-grade plywood is the cheapest and ideal for sofas and wardrobes. As for modular kitchens and bathrooms, BWP or Boiling Water Proof plywood is the best. It is resistant to water; therefore, is extremely durable. Moreover, this cabinet kitchen material does not rot or crack with age.
- Texture and Look
Image Source: bedow
Plywood can be cut into different shapes and patterns easily. It has a uniform, flat surface. Therefore, it is good for the fabrication of any kind of furniture or its part. It can be polished and laminated with ease to give a smooth finish.
| Also read: Modular kitchen design – Everything you need to know (+27 ideas) |
- Cost-effective
Plywood is relatively more economical than its counterparts. For less than half the cost of solid wood, you can make double the products with plywood. It is easy to work with as well; hence, the labour cost is also reduced.
Disadvantages of Plywood
- Wood Kitchen Quality
Since very thin wood veneers are used, it is not easy to determine the quality of wood in the plywood board. However, this drawback can be eliminated if you pick a reliable plywood brand.
| Also read: Kitchen cabinets: 15 trendsetting designs & storage configurations |
- Water Damage
If you do not go for BWP plywood and choose Moisture Resistant (MR) plywood instead, your modular kitchen might deteriorate over a period of time due to water and moisture retention.
- Cheaper Materials
Although plywood is itself an affordable material, there are other options at a lesser price as well. However, there you might have to compromise with the quality of cheaper materials.
Popular Plywood modular kitchen material Brands
Century Plyboard, established in 1986, is one of the pioneers of the plywood and veneer industry in India. They use GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) formula to make their ply boards sturdier, long-lasting, and termite-proof. Century Ply manufactures the best modular kitchen material.
Greenply is accredited with manufacturing one of the finest quality plywood in India. Almost all varieties of plywood are accommodated by them. They use the best quality wood and manufacture plywood of uniform thickness and better strength.
| Also read: 7 Popular kitchen cabinet colour schemes to match your appliances |
With the most advanced technology and best quality wood like Poplar and Eucalyptus, Merino plywood offers exceptional durability and weather and water resistance. The plywood is termite-proof, BWP (boiling waterproof), and Borer proof.
Expert’s Tip
Go for Boiling Water-Resistant ply instead of commercial ply as the kitchen remains exposed to steam and other liquids. Although BWR ply is costlier than commercial ply, it is more durable and resistant to fungal attacks. So, it offers more efficiency and longevity.
Modular Kitchen Material- Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
Image Source: Project Hamad
MDF is a synthetic building material made by breaking down softwood and hardwood into wood fibers. They are broken down in a defibrillator and then combined with resin or wax binders. MDF is extremely dense and sturdy.
It is mostly used for bathroom and kitchen cabinets.
Advantages of MDF
- Durability
MDF holds on to the glue firmly and allows the veneers to be attached to it easily. The chemicals used in the manufacture make it termite resistant. MDF does not expand or contract on heat and humidity exposures, unlike solid wood.
- Texture and Look
Image Source: Board King
MDF has a consistent size throughout. The dimensions are stable and can be shaped into elaborate designs in a more feasible way than solid wood. It takes paint finely and looks smooth. It does not have knots that can make the paint look untidy or make it difficult for the components to attach.
- Eco-friendly
MDF is manufactured using recycled wood. Therefore, it supports sustainability as well. An eco-friendly modular kitchen would be just perfect for every house.
Disadvantages of MDF
- Toxicity
Although most of the harmful chemicals are dissipated by the end of the manufacturing process, a small amount of formaldehyde might be left on the surface which is harmful. However, painting the boards and cabinets reduces the risk to a great extent and makes it safe for use.
- High Maintenance
Unlike Plywood, MDF tends to chip or crack more often and it cannot be repaired. Therefore, it requires a lot of care.
- Swelling
MDF is weather-resistant; however, too much direct exposure to water can make it swell and loose. Moreover, it does not hold the screw very well.
Popular MDF modular kitchen material Brands
Action Tesa uses German technology to manufacture homogeneous MDF boards. They use hardwood to enhance the density of MDF.
Century Prowud manufactures sustainable MDF boards of the best quality. MDF is ideal for creating stunning kitchen furniture of every shape and size.
Merino offers economical MDF boards that can be customized easily according to the requirements of the modular kitchen.
Expert’s Tip
If you go for an MDF kitchen, ensure that the cabinets below the sink are made of BWR plywood.
Modular Kitchen Material- High-Density Fiberboard (HDF)
Image Source: Buildec
Both HDF and MDF get engineered wood fibers combined with glue. But HDF has a higher density than MDF. Versatile building material and remains known for its durability and affordability.
HDF application areas- bathroom and kitchen cabinets and shelves, Furniture, Flooring, Decorative items, Doors, and their frames, etc.
Advantages of HDF
- Cost-effective
HDF is more cost-effective than solid wood. It is easy on the pocket. Therefore, you can get a lavish modular kitchen on a minimum budget.
- Consistency
HDF does not have any splinters or voids. It is consistent throughout. Therefore, it is easier to paint too.
- Easy to construct
It is easy to cut HDF boards with a jigsaw, scroll saw, or any other instrument without tearing it out or splintering it.
Disadvantages of HDF
- Water damage
HDF absorbs liquid easily and swells up. It has the least water resistance when compared to plywood, MDF, or other any cabinet kitchen material.
- High density
Due to its high density, it becomes heavy and is not an ideal material for skirting boards. However, it is good for kitchen cabinets and shelves. But it increases the weight.
- Toxicity
Inhalation of toxic particles is a common problem with both MDF and MDF.
Popular HDF modular kitchen material Brands
Action Tesa introduced the BWP HDF boards in India. They are water and thermal resistant and can survive wet conditions and high temperatures.
Expert’s Tip
If you go for an HDF kitchen, ensure that the cabinets below the sink are made of BWR plywood.
Modular Kitchen Material- Solid Wood
Image Source: Remodelista
Solid wood is lumber that has been cut from a tree and is not engineered and held together with adhesives. It has wood fibers all throughout. So, it is natural wood without any artificial infiltrations.
Also, it works as solid wood kitchen cabinet material and flooring material as well.
Advantages of Solid Wood
- Aesthetic value
A solid wood kitchen has extremely high aesthetic appeal. It comes in many shades; therefore, it suits every colour scheme. It looks elegant and gives a contemporary look to the modular kitchen.
- Durable
A solid wood kitchen is strong and most durable out of all other materials. It does not break down easily. This is why most household furniture made out of solid wood is passed down from one generation to another. It lasts for decades.
- Temporary damage
When exposed to too much moisture, the surface might get damaged. However, with proper sanding and re-polishing, it gets back its shine.
Disadvantages of Solid Wood
- Expensive
Solid wood is very expensive as it is original maple, oak, mahogany, teak, etc. A carpenter needs to carve this wood properly which further increases the overall cost.
- Not eco-friendly
We obtain Solid wood from cutting down a large number of exotic trees that take a lot of time to grow. Although other materials require wood too, it gets mostly recycled and needed in a lesser quantity.
- Inconsistent grains
Since the knots and whirls in a solid wood kitchen are all-natural, it is not possible to get consistent grains in the finished cabinets. However, if you prefer a rustic look, you can go with it.
Popular Solid Wood modular kitchen material Brands
Canadian Wood is an agency of the government of British Columbia, Canada that regulates and manages the supply of Canadian wood all across the globe. Woods from sustainably managed forests are identified and graded by the lumber companies. These companies then approach Canadian Wood which enables their global supply.
Canadian wood offers one of the best kinds of wood in the world. Western hemlock, Douglas fir, western red cedar, and yellow cedar are some of the most widely traded types of CW. Generally, a solid wood kitchen is not the first choice for modular kitchen material even though it has high aesthetic and durable values because it exploits the environment. But Canadian Wood, with its responsible forest management system, has eliminated this challenge.
Expert’s Tip
If you have an elaborate budget, you can go all wood! But, if you have a tight budget and still want to use wood, opt for solid wood for the cabinet exteriors and choose budget-friendly material for interiors.
Modular Kitchen Material- High-Pressure Laminates (HPL)
Image Source: NewMika Laminates
HPL is a decorative laminate made of cellulose layers infused with resins. It is highly durable and has many performance properties. The major constituent of HPL is paper.
HPL application areas- Kitchen Cabinets and Tabletops, HPL countertops, Flooring, Furniture, etc.
Advantages of HPL
- Scratch and Shock Resistant
HPL has a protective layer that makes it immune to strong impacts and scratches. Therefore, the brightness, smoothness, and glow of the furniture remain retained for an extended period of time.
- Hygienic
HPL is one of the most hygienic products. It does not give a viable environment for microorganisms to grow.
- Heat exposure
The threshold for heat exposure of HPL is 275 degrees. Therefore, HPL can be exposed to this heat level comfortably. The material can be used for modular kitchen cabinets but it is not an ideal material for kitchen table tops.
Disadvantages of HPL
- Cannot be sanded
Sanding brings back the glow of the furniture. But HPL cannot be sanded or stained.
- Frailty
HPL is not as strong as solid wood, plywood, or any of its competitors.
Popular HPL modular kitchen material Brands
Century Laminates uses modern technology to give extra strength and durability to HPL. They offer an exotic range of laminates that are resistant to abrasion.
Greenlam offers a premium range of HPL. It is one of the largest distributors of this material in India. The manufacture of laminates is done in an eco-friendly manner.
Merino HPL is made of decorative papers infused with high-quality resins. They are evenly laminated to give a smooth and appealing surface.
Northern Laminates is a relatively new company that has emerged as an influential manufacturer of quality plywood and laminates. Their designs are innovative and tasteful.
Sundek is one of the first HPL manufacturers in India. Since 1987, they have been offering excellent HPL for furniture.
Modular Kitchen Material- Stainless Steel
Image Source: OPPEIN home
Generally, people believe that stainless steel remains only used in commercial kitchens. However, that is not entirely correct. Moreover, over the last few years, stainless steel modular kitchens have made their way into residential setups as well. In fact, they are gaining dominance in the latest modular kitchen material trends.
Common applications of Stainless Steel Kitchen industry are kitchen accessories, kitchen furniture, cutlery, and cookware. Moreover, appliances like refrigerators, countertops, dishwashers, freezers, etc. also use stainless steel.
Advantages of Stainless Steel
- Durability
The kitchen counters and cabinets made from this material are reliable and highly durable. They can last for years.
- Low maintenance
It becomes easier to clean stainless steel kitchen than wood or any other material.
- Sleek design
Stainless steel uses minimum space and gives you ample storage. Moreover, today’s interiors are all about space efficiency and stainless steel is the ideal choice for this objective.
Disadvantages of Stainless Steel
- Limited Design Options
Unlike wood materials, you don’t get to choose different patterns, shades, and colour schemes with stainless steel.
- Scratches and dents
Stainless steel is prone to fingerprints, scratches, and smudges. Too much force on the modular kitchen material can cause dents too. So, you must handle it with care. Moreover, the steel reverberates against dropped utensils, creating very loud crashing and clanging sounds.
Popular Stainless Steel modular kitchen material Brands-
Jindal Stainless is one of the most popular stainless steel conglomerates in the world. They use modern technology to manufacture flawless stainless steel of all grades.
Synergy is an Indian brand based in Bengaluru. It manufactures high-quality stainless steel modular kitchen cabinets for kitchen furniture and other uses in a laboratory environment.
Expert’s Tip
If you prefer easy maintenance and sleek design, stainless steel kitchens make an ideal choice. Also, due to their space and hygiene efficiency, stainless steel kitchens are preferred in most commercial kitchen areas.
Modular Kitchen Material- Chipboard
Image Source: Hunker
Chipboard, also known as Particle Board or Low-Density Fiberboard constitutes pressing together of small wood particles with epoxy resin under high temperature and pressure. Chipboards come in a variety of densities. The average density of 16 mm chipboard is 650 kg/m3 but the range varies from 620-740 kg/m3.
Chipboard application areas- Kitchen cabinets, Kitchen worktops, Flooring, Furniture, etc.
Advantages of Chipboard
- Cost-effective
Particleboard is easy on the pockets and gives a rich look. It is cheaper than MDF or plywood.
- Aesthetic
Particleboards offer an extremely smooth, flat surface. Laminated and veneered particle boards remain widely used in office and kitchen furniture. Moreover, they do not distort or dent easily.
- Eco-friendly
Made from recycled wood and wood waste such as sawdust, wood chips, bagasse, and wood shavings, Chipboards are environmentally friendly.
Disadvantages of Chipboard modular kitchen material
- Frailty
Particleboards have lower strength than other fiberboards. Due to its low density, the damage becomes easily possible. Therefore, it does not support heavyweight.
- Water damage
Moisture causes expansion and warping of chipboards. Moreover, discolouration becomes possible in extreme conditions. The breakdown of resins can also result in the release of toxic formaldehyde gas.
Click here to watch a video to find out how MDF and Particleboards are different.
Popular Chipboard modular kitchen material Brands-
Chipboards manufactured by Century use high-quality trees for sustainable consumption. Their boards can withstand pressure and heat feasibly.
- Positive
Positivity Chipboard India engineers highly durable particle boards. The fine sand finished surface of the modular kitchen cabinet material is smooth and ideal for lamination and painting.
Shell Laminates manufactures its own particle boards. Additionally, it also imports high-quality boards from manufacturers in countries like Germany, Thailand, Spain, and Malaysia.
Now that you know about the pros and cons of the different kinds of modular kitchen material, it will become easier for you to pick the best as per your requirements.
Modular Kitchen Material Price Range
| Sr. No. | Modular Kitchen Material | Price Range | Durability |
| 1. | Plywood modular kitchen cabinet material | Rs. 40 per sq. ft. to Rs.200 per sq. ft. | High |
| 1. | MDF modular kitchen cabinet material | Rs. 40 per sq. ft to Rs. 120 per sq. ft. | Medium |
| 2. | HDF modular kitchen cabinet material | Rs. 11 per sq. ft. to Rs. 175 per sq. ft. | High |
| 3. | Solid Wood modular kitchen cabinet material | Rs. 600 per sq. ft. to Rs. 2000 per sq. ft. | High |
| 4. | HPL cabinet kitchen material | Rs. 200 per sq. ft. to Rs. 1500 per sq. ft. | High |
| 5. | Stainless Steel modular kitchen cabinet material | Rs. 8000 per sheet to Rs. 10000 per sheet | High |
| 6. | Chipboard cabinet kitchen material | Rs. 40 per sq. ft. to Rs. 500 per sq. ft. | Low |
Comparison between Modular Kitchen Material
Watch this video to find out more about the different types of modular kitchen materials.
Modular kitchen material has two main segments- the carcass and the shutters.
MDF remains the most affordable modular kitchen material for the carcass, followed by HDF/HDMR, Plywood, and HPL. Stainless Steel is the most expensive material; therefore, it is not very popular and is seldom used in home kitchens.
When it comes to the durability of kitchen carcass and shutter materials, it is essential to go for a reliable brand. MDF has often faced criticism for its lack of durability. However, the major problem lies not with the boards but the manufacturing of the boards. Wood waste and wood dust constitute fiberboard and particle boards. If air spaces remain left inside the board the quality degrades. Also, the species and condition of the wood affect the quality of the board.
Kitchen finishes
A kitchen is a place where you spend the majority of your time. So, it should remain clean, roomy, and convenient to use, as well as easy to maintain. Different types of outer finishes and hardware are available in the market to give your kitchen a luxurious look. Find some of the best kitchen finishes based on your budget and maintenance requirements.
Laminates
Image Source: Greenlam
Laminate is a cost-effective and durable material for kitchen cabinets and shutters. If you have a limited budget but want to invest in a long-lasting material, laminate is the way to go.
In a modular kitchen, the laminate is hot-pressed in a machine to remove air and bubbles on the shutters. It is followed by edge banding with the same colour laminate at the corners of the cabinets to remove sharp corners. Thus, it ensures that the edges do not chip off in the long term.
You have two finishes to choose from: a high gloss finish and a matte finish.
PU Finish
Image Source: Hzojane
PU is a type of paint that is used on external grade MDF boards to give it a royal appearance. The majority of interior designers choose this high-gloss finish for luxury projects.
Veneer
Image Source: Bespoke Decor
Veneers remain typically reserved for wardrobes and other storage items. However, many designers use it in kitchens to achieve a vintage look.
In modular kitchens, thin coatings of real wood veneer remain typically utilized to give it a natural look and feel. It’s commonly found on modular kitchen cabinets, countertops, and doors. A modular kitchen with veneers combines the best of both worlds: authentic wood grain and modern kitchen modular practicality. However, it remains a high-maintenance kitchen finish material.
Acrylic
Image Source: Zameen.com
Acrylic is a man-made material that is placed to your marine ply shutter as a thin layer. It provides a high-gloss finish to your kitchen. It comes with long-lasting quality. Also, It comes in a variety of basic and glittering colours and can last for up to 15 years.
Lacquer
Image Source: SNIMAY
Lacquer remains one of the most frequently used finishing materials in the kitchen, because of its high stain resistance and ease of maintenance. It uses high-quality glass in several colours. Lacquer is particularly long-lasting, as it does not fade or lose its luster with age.
Glass
Image Source: Pinterest
For a better view of your spices and groceries, you can choose from different varieties of simple or frosted glass shutters. This will make your kitchen appear more open and functional.
Conclusion
Plywood is the most preferred modular kitchen material in India. Moreover, many Indian brands have come up with innovative cabinet kitchen materials to design high-quality modular kitchens. Godrej uses mild steel to build the kitchen carcass. It is a cheaper alternative to Stainless Steel, although there is a huge difference in the quality and specifications of the two as well. Grace Kitchens use HPL to build modular kitchen carcasses. They are termite and water-resistant.
As for the shutters of modular kitchens, several modular kitchen material brands have come up with modern, creative solutions that not only increase the functionality but also the aesthetic appeal of the kitchen overall. Combinations of glass and aluminum or glass and solid wood give the shutters a visually delightful look and enhance the look and utility of the modular kitchen.
Kitchen finishes give an appealing look and protect the carcass material from all sorts of damage. Today, we have multiple kitchen finishes in the market such as laminates, glass, acrylic, and more. Each material comes with its set of pros and cons.
This article helps interior designers, decorators, homeowners, and everyone who wants to create a new kitchen or remodel an existing one. With the right material, finishes, and smart choice of appliances, one can have a lavish modular kitchen within budget.
If you want to buy top-quality modular kitchens from the best brands, click on the link given below to check your options and submit your inquiries:
For more details, contact below: WhatsApp Number: +91-9967632127 (Only message; no calls) |
Functional Vs Designer Modular Kitchens: What should you pick?
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