Expert: Jamie Yocono - 6/18/2005

Question
What is the best wood selection for building kitchen cabinets - plywood or joined wood panels?  I am talking about the carcase of base cabinets.
Solid wood panels are too expensive for us.

Will joined wood panels expand and contract thereby leaving cracks in the panel or warping the panel?

Answer
Hi Freida-

I just saw the last part of your question- about the cracking and potential for gaps. Yes, this is always a possibility, although modern adhesives allow for somewhat of a "flexibility" for the wood to expand and contract a bit. It really depends on where you live- if it's a highly humid area, there could be bigger fluctuations. Also- is your home air conditioned? Constant heat/AC control somewhat diminished the chance that wood humidity is going to fluctuate that much.

And then there is the question of the moisture content of the wood when it's being used. Kiln dried wood is about 6-8% moisture, whereas air dried wood could be double that. DO NOT use air dried wood, regardless of how cheap it is. It will split and warp and ruin your cabinets over time. Do not let anyone talk you into this.

I still stick by my first answer- plywood is the way to go. It afford you savings, durability, and stability. If there was a special place that you REALLY want the look of solid wood, like an island in the middle of your kitchen, I would consider using panels made of raised panels with a stile/rail framework. It's quite stable and beautiful But REALLY expensive.  Put your money in the things that count.

Jamie