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.
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