Expert: Jamie Yocono - 4/6/2009

Question
Jamie,

The two choices for our garage cabinets are: 1) Particleboard that is coated on both sides with melamine (i.e., "fully finished") or 2) Particleboard that's coated on one side with melamine.
Are there any problems with using single-sided particle- board?  We live in the Las Vegas area, where the humidity is usually 10-25%, but it can go up higher occasionally. Will the single-sided absorb moisture and cause problems?  Or any other problems?

Thanks,
Ray

Answer
Ray,

Small world, I live in LV too. Reading your question reminds me that I need to build myself some garage cabinets. Those are SO handy, and I feel like they really add value to your home.

As far as your question goes - there shouldn't be that much of a difference in price for a one sided or two sided MDF panel. But if there is, you need to ask yourself a couple of questions.

First, you're right that moisture can enter the untreated side. And even though our humidity here is minimal, there is still the possibility of moisture entering the panel. So that would be the number one reason that I would want the melamine on both sides. No doubt about it. I've seen some manufacturers actually spray a sealer on that bare side, but I would prefer melamine.

Second, is it worth it to have an easy-to-clean surface on both sides? Garages are notoriously dirty, and I would want the ability to keep both sides clean. I've had more than one can and bottle leak inside an outside chest, so melamine helps to make those clean-ups a breeze.

Last thing -  are you by chance buying your garage cabinets from Southwest Garage Cabinets on Gowan? If so, mention my name and tell Doug I said to give you a discount! No, I'm kidding - I just met him about a month ago, I am moving in next door to his cabinet shop. Hey, I guess it wouldn't hurt to tell him I sent you and ask for a slight discount. They seem like a nice company to deal with, but like everywhere else, business is low for them. They might have a "recession special" running this month. Doesn't hurt to ask.

Good luck, I think you already knew the answer to this question, but wanted to double check. You were definitely on the right track, you want to keep that humidity at bay.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
My woodworking blog: www.wooditis.blogspot.com