KITCHEN CABINET:- MATERIAL SELECTION

SARASIJ MAJUMDER

 

If you’re installing new kitchen cabinets, it’s very important to understand the pros and cons of the materials you choose. You might choose cabinet finishes that look great and blend in with your décor theme, but unless you make wise choices about the core materials that go into the making of the cabinet itself, you might find that it’s not as durable or sturdy as you would like.

But, one thing is sure—don’t leave it to Carpenter, or Supplier, and take advise from them.

Two of the most popular cabinet materials are BWP (Boiling Waterproof) and BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) plywood. Read on to know what are the differences between the two, and which is the best option for your needs!

BWP (Boiling Waterproof) Plywood:

• BWP grade plywood is certified with the IS:710 specification number from the Bureau of Indian Standards.
• BWP is considered to be completely waterproof. It is the best choice for kitchens and bathrooms, and in fact, it can be used for even outdoor applications such as decks, and can withstand high levels of moisture and high temperatures.
• The strongest plywood available, BWP is manufactured with a greater number of plies, superior resins and adhesives, and raw materials of the best quality.
• It is also resistant to termites and borers and typically comes with a warranty from the manufacturers.
• BWP plywood is built to withstand environments with high moisture and humidity levels, such as kitchens and bathrooms, as it is treated to withstand Mold and mildew.
• BWP ply comes at a higher price point due to its exceptional quality, durability and longevity.

BWR Plywood:

• BWR grade plywood is certified with the IS:303 specification number from the Bureau of Indian Standards.
• BWR plywood is not completely waterproof, and as such is not recommended for outdoor applications. It is suitable for indoor use in kitchens and bathrooms, but should be well-sealed to prevent the entry of moisture.
• Although it also undergoes preservative treatment for water resistance, it falls short of the water-resistance levels achieved by BWP.
• It resists water better than commercial plywood, and is also termite proof.
• Budget-conscious consumers may find BWR a more accessible choice.

So, which of the two should you choose for your kitchen cabinets?

When it comes to your kitchen cabinets, the best choice is often said to be BWP. This is because BWP plywood can withstand prolonged exposure to moisture without any delamination or warping — this makes it ideal for the kitchen, where spills and high humidity levels are a given! BWP ply is constructed using multiple layers of hardwood veneers bonded together with phenolic resins under high pressure, and can easily endure the rigours of daily kitchen use.

However, in terms of cost, BWP plywood is more expensive, and is approximately 10-20% higher in price than BWR plywood. Do keep in mind, though, that the extra investment safeguards your kitchen cabinets from potential water damage and ensures their long life, even under conditions that are almost certainly going to be humid and damp!

In cases where kitchen cabinets are predominantly machine-made and meticulously sealed with laminates and edge-bandings, BWR grades can serve their purpose capably. If you are working on a budget, and if you are sure that your cabinets are constructed well and the edges are perfectly sealed, then opt for BWR plywood.

NOTE:-

The BLOGGER is a CIVIL ENGINEER, with 50+ Years of experience.