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The Best Kitchen Cabinets To Buy: A Guide


When selecting which kitchen cabinets to buy, consider the most popular materials: laminate, metal and wood.

  • Laminate is the cheapest option available. It is relatively durable and holds up to water quite well so long as the water doesn’t get inside or underneath the laminate material.
  • Metal cabinets are more expensive than laminate and offer a great look in the right kitchen. When choosing metal, select a type that  will withstand the normal wear and tear that comes with use in a kitchen. Metals such as stainless steel and aluminum are good options.
  • Wood cabinets are the most expensive option, but they also add the most value to your home. Wood cabinets are available in nearly any type of wood, but the most popular include white oak, teak, pine and red oak. When considering wood cabinets, remember that the wood will need to be refinished periodically to protect it from water.

Factors That Affect Which Kitchen Cabinets To Buy

Since cabinets come in so many styles, your own tastes will determine which color, texture and material you buy.

Before deciding, consider the climate of the area in which you live. In places where humidity is a constant problem, avoid using soft wood, which warps when exposed to moisture.This problem can be dealt with by refinishing the wood on a regular basis, though that adds extra cost and time. Hard woods handle humidity fairly well but cost more.

Another factor to consider is your home’s location and value. When you are remodeling a kitchen, you should aim to spend no more than 50% of the total return value added. For homes in many neighborhoods, laminate cabinets are the best bet because they cost significantly less and they are durable.









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