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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/maple vs. birch kitchen cabinets

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Expert: - 11/6/2006


Question
HI,
I am having my kitchen redone and had agreed on maple kitchen cabinets. My contractor has brought in birch cabinets, saying he upgraded because the maple cabinets have been splitting.
Is it an upgrade from maple to birch?

Answer
Birch is a good product, having used it on staircase balustrades.  Not involved in kitchen cabinets much. Cost-wise, I don't see birch as an "upgrade", as it is cheaper than maple, has a different porous factor, and takes stain differently.  If you are trying to keep a "natural" look, maple is a good way to go.  If you are trying to stain it "dark" or another color, birch would be a better option.   Some people I've worked with like the grain pattern in birch in lieu of maple.

As far as durability, Maple will outshine Birch, since it is harder and has a greater density.

Overall, I would not consider birch an upgrade over maple.  I hope your contractor is offering a discount.

Hope that helps!

Joseph G. Swallow
Westifire Mfg., Inc.

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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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