Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/pine cabinets

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Expert: - 1/20/2008


Question
Hi Joseph, We're building a log home and using much of our own wood on the interior. I prefer color on our kitchen cabinets because of all the wood elsewhere. I first looked at thermafoil, but have been discouraged by all the cabinetry store folk. We could use our pine and paint it, but because it is not a hardwood, how will that wear over the (hopefully) 25 years we may live there? Should we consider birch instead? Thank you

Answer
Sherry,

I would look into something in a hardwood but inexpensive to paint.  Since I am involved mostly in stair building, we often set poplar as the choice of painting.  The cost is economical.  Most moldings and lumber dimensioning is available in poplar.   It is not porous, so it paints with a smooth finish.  Take a look at poplar in your area and see how it stacks up.

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Volunteer

Joseph G. Swallow

Expertise

I can answer all staircase balustrade questions where handrails, newels posts, balusters (wood and metal), and stair treads are concerned. I cannot help with cabinetry and floor (outside of stair-related treads and risers), as well as stain and finish issues unless staircase related.

Experience

30 years in the stair industry. Founder of Hardwood Creations in Southern California and CEO of Westfire Manufacturing, Inc. I was a stair builder for 10 years, both in custom and production housing. Have estimated over 750,000 single family homes and provided materials to lumber yards and builders for 12 years. Was an expert witness in several staircase related law suits in Southern California. Stair codes, installation help, stair handrail and balustrade installation are what I know best.

Organizations
NAHB of Portland, OR. Was a member of ICBO for 9 years.

Education/Credentials
Cal State Fullerton, Cypress College

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