I’m having cabinets built for my kitchen. They’re face frame with inset doors, paint grade (Shaker style). I have the choice between solid wood or MDF for the door panels. Assuming I’m not concerned about panel movement and the paint cracking which is better? My main concern is durability and longevity.
Thanks
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Based on over 40 yrs. of doing kitchens, chances are that what you do today will be worn and out of style in 20 yrs. if not before. The durability and longevity of either solid wood or MDF is a moot point in such a short time. Both can be repaired and repainted but it's more likely the cabinets will get replaced for the new design trend in the future. MDF panels should be fine, save you a little money and be less apt to movement.
MDF vs wood
As was previously posted, you will probably replace the kitchen before the MDF doors need replacing. My only worry is that if the doors are not PROPERLY sealed and they get wet, MDF tends to expand like a sponge and not return to its original size when it dries out. Is it possible to make MOST of the doors made from MDF and just thge two or three doors at the sink area made from solid wood? I'm assuming it is less expensive to make MDF doors than solid wood ones. Once painted, only you will know the difference
SawdustSteve Long Island, NY (E of NYC)
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