What are the differnt types of wood for cabinets? by Doug R.
The material you choose for your cabinets is one of the most critical decisions in a renovation or new build. Not only does the wood species dictate the final aesthetic, but it also impacts the durability, stability, and overall cost of your project. I will break down the common characteristics and types of wood used for cabinet construction to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding Wood Hardness: The Janka Rating
To accurately compare the durability of different woods, professionals use the “Janka hardness test”. This test measures a wood species' resistance to wear and denting by gauging the force required to press a steel ball halfway into the wood. The data is expressed in pounds force (lbf).
The higher the Janka number, the harder the wood and the more resistant it is to dents and scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchen environments.
The Impact of Wood Grain Cuts
Beyond the wood species itself, the way a log is cut into lumber profoundly affects the appearance, stability, and final cost of the cabinet material.
Plain Sawn: This is the most common and economical way to saw lumber. It involves making cuts that are tangent to the log's circumference. While this method produces wide boards with minimal waste, the lumber is more likely to warp, twist, or cup over time due to the angle of the growth rings.
Quarter Sawn: This cut produces a straight, tight grain pattern with visible "ray fleck" or "flecking" that creates a unique, often striped appearance. Known for its superior durability and stability, quarter sawn wood resists warping and cupping. This look results from the log being cut at a 90 degree angle to its growth rings.
Rift Sawn: Rift sawn wood features a uniform, parallel, and straight linear grain pattern with minimal to no "ray fleck." It is highly stable and resists warping. This look is achieved by cutting the boards at a radial or near perpendicular angle to the growth rings, but this process results in significant wood waste and consequently, higher costs.
Hardwood Characteristics and Durability
Hardwoods are the preferred choice for kitchens due to their strength and longevity. Here is a breakdown of common species, ordered by their approximate Janka Hardness rating from highest to lowest.
Wood Species, Janka Rating (lbf), Key Color/Grain Features, Notes on Use & Finish.
Hickory 1,820 Bold variation, from pale cream to dark brown. One of the hardest domestic woods. Highly resistant to dents and scratches, perfect for high traffic areas.
Maple 1,450 Smooth, consistent, and light in color (creamy white to light brown). Very durable and highly resistant to dents. Takes paint beautifully, making it easy to achieve any desired color.
Beech 1,300 - 1,450 Fine, straight grain with a light, warm color (pale cream to pinkish brown). Dense, stable, and smooth. Easy to finish evenly with paint or stain. Offers a great balance of strength and cost.
White Oak 1,360 Tight, straight grain with a clean, uniform look (pale beige to warm golden brown). A highly popular, durable choice. Provides a clean, modern aesthetic.
Red Oak 1,290 Open, prominent grain with warm pink and red undertones. Strong, reliable, and widely available. More cost effective than White Oak. Its open grain pairs well with natural stains.
Walnut 1,000 Deep brown with rich, flowing grain and natural warmth. Softer than Maple or Oak, but prized for its luxurious appearance. Its natural color and grain are highly valued.
Mahogany 800 - 2,200 Deep reddish brown color with a fine, even grain. Rating varies significantly by species. Resists warping and holds a smooth finish that deepens with time.
Alder 590 Smooth, even texture with a light brown tone and subtle grain. Very soft, dents and scratches easily. Takes stain well, often used to mimic darker woods like Walnut, or to achieve a distressed look.
Takeaways
When selecting the ideal wood for your cabinets, balance the desire for aesthetics (color, grain, cut) with the need for performance (durability, cost). For longevity and resistance to wear, woods like White Oak and Walnut are excellent choices. For a clean, stable look that resists movement, consider the premium Quarter Sawn or Rift Sawn cuts, particularly in oak.
