A brief history of kitchen cabinets
Built-in kitchen cabinets are a relatively new item in the kitchen. Cabinets were never a part of kitchen construction in centuries past. Most of the time they were freestanding structures like porcelain cabinets or cake racks that could be moved from one place to another.
During the 20th century, cabinets became an integral part of the kitchen. Kitchen cabinets were no longer an afterthought or a secondary necessity. The introduction of small kitchen appliances made kitchen cabinets a necessity in the home.
Cabinets emerged as a main feature of the contemporary home. They were often made by hand from solid woods. Various types of cabinetmaking became an informal brand of cabinets. These fine details once indicated precisely where a set of cabinets came from. It seemed that cabinetmakers in almost every region of the United States had their own style and decorative elements.
With the passage of time, the creation “by hand” of cabinets began to decline. Companies began to mass produce cabinets in massive quantities with cheaper materials and cheap labor. A division emerged in the cabinetmaking arena that separated quality cabinets from lower-quality products.
The division exists today with kitchen cabinetmakers using particle board or MDF. These cheap materials are often covered in thin sheeting that won’t stand up to sanding or other repair work. These products are cheaper than solid wood cabinets, but the owner is cautioned that you get what you pay for.
Lower-quality cabinets may seem like the best deal. Many of these cabinet systems appear durable and solid. The two main forces that ruin poorly made cabinets are general use and the environment. Moisture, temperature changes, and too much weight will bend or bow cabinets over time. Wood cabinets are durable and long lasting against these threats. There are also the visual benefits of wood cabinets. Many types of solid wood cabinets will change slightly over time as the wood ages.
Cherry cabinets will subtly darken over time. Maple cabinets are known for the beautiful and unique grains. Oak is a sturdy wood that has pronounced grain, and oak cabinets can even contain what’s called a “pin knot.” Birch has been labeled a “contemporary” wood and accepts paints and stains well. Alder is like cherry when dyed. It is a medium-hard wood that has a compact grain. Rubberwood is also known as plantation hardwood. The grain is straight, but this type of wood is also known to have unusual markings that create visual interest.
The well-known downsides of solid wood cabinets have been on the table for years. Many solid wood kitchen cabinet manufacturers have produced designs that are virtually waterproof. The engineering of wooden kitchen cabinets today goes through a variety of processes.
Just a few of the common treatments include UV inhibitors to protect against sun damage, heat catalyzed finishes, hand painted stains, and scrubbing. The thick sealants and finishes used today are much more durable and long lasting than those of the past.
You are sure to install a durable and stylish feature when you choose solid wood cabinets. Your kitchen cabinets will retain their beauty through the years. Solid wood cabinets are an investment that will pay you back as long as you own your home.
