How to Choose the Right Joinery for Your Kitchen Renovation
Are you planning to renovate your kitchen and wondering which type of joinery to choose? When it comes to kitchen joinery in Australia, there are several options available, each with their own unique characteristics, pros, and cons.
The most common options are melamine, thermolaminated or vinyl wrapped, 2-pac painted finish, timber veneer, and hardwood. In this blog post, we will discuss each of these options in detail and provide indicative price points relevant to the Australian market to help you make an informed decision.
Melamine:
If you're looking for an affordable and versatile option for your kitchen joinery in Australia, you might want to consider melamine. It's a popular choice that's made by layering a resin-infused, decorative paper on top of MDF or particleboard. It’s super durable and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. The best part? Melamine comes in a variety of colours and finishes, so you can easily find one that matches your style and taste.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable
- Resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Available in a wide range of colours and finishes
Cons:
- Can look artificial
- Panels are trimmed with an edge tape (not seamless)
- Limited design options - panels are generally flat-faced rather than profiled
- Not as durable as some other options
Indicative price point: Low
Thermolaminated:
Thermolaminated joinery is a process of applying a decorative vinyl film to MDF or particleboard using heat and vacuum pressure. This results in a seamless and durable finish resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. You can choose from a variety of colors and finishes, including stunning woodgrains, matte and gloss options. The end product is a beautiful and long-lasting joinery that will enhance the look of any space. Thermolaminated joinery is my number one go to option here at Tahleah Hoyle Design!
Pros:
- Seamless finish
- Durable
- Resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Available in a wide range of colours and finishes
- A huge range of profiles options are available - if you want that shaker style, Hampton’s kitchen, this is the choice for you.
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than melamine
- Difficult to repair if damaged
Indicative price point: Mid-Range
2-Pac Painted Finish:
Certainly, here is the rewritten version:
Transform your kitchen with 2 Pac, the ultimate choice for high-end kitchen joinery. A two-component polyurethane paint is applied to MDF or timber, then baked in an oven for a durable and long-lasting finish that will stand the test of time. With a wide range of finishes, as well as an array of colors to choose from, 2 Pac will give your kitchen a luxurious and sophisticated look that will leave a lasting impression.
Pros:
- High-quality finish
- Durable
- Resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Available in a wide range of colours and finishes - if you’re looking for a specific colour match, a 2-pac finish should be considered.
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires professional installation
- Difficult to repair if damaged
Indicative price point: High
Veneer:
Veneer is a natural and timeless option for kitchen joinery in Australia. It involves applying a thin layer of real timber to MDF or particleboard. Veneer is available in a wide range of timber species, each with its unique grain patterns and colours.
Pros:
- Natural and timeless
- Rich and warm finish
- Available in a wide range of timber species
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than melamine and thermolaminated options
- May require more maintenance
- Not as durable as some other options
Indicative price point: Mid to High End
Hardwood:
Hardwood joinery is another option to consider for kitchen joinery. It involves using solid timber for the cabinets and doors, rather than MDF or particleboard with a veneer or laminate finish. Hardwood joinery is a high-end option that offers unmatched durability and a natural, rich finish that ages beautifully over time.
Pros:
- High-quality finish
- Durable - Hardwood will outlast most other finishes
- Resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Natural and timeless
- Can be custom-designed to suit your needs and preferences
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires professional installation
- May require regular maintenance, such as oiling or staining, to maintain its finish
- Due to the natural tendency of timber to change shape over time, this option may not be as stable as others.
Indicative price point: The Highest! Stunning but expensive. Opting for a custom-made vanity is a great idea, but it may not be the best choice for your entire kitchen.
When it comes to hardwood joinery, it's essential to keep in mind that the cost may vary significantly based on the timber species utilized and the complexity of the design. In Tasmania, some popular timber species for hardwood joinery are Tasmanian oak, Sassafras, Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, and Huon Pine. Each of these species has unique characteristics and price points.
In conclusion, when it comes to kitchen joinery, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each option has its own unique characteristics, pros, and cons. Melamine and thermolaminated options are affordable and durable, while 2 pac and veneer options offer high-end finishes at a premium price. Hardwood joinery is a custom-designed option that can be tailored to suit your needs and preferences. Consider your budget, design preferences, and lifestyle when choosing the right option for you.
If you're feeling confused and could use some friendly expert guidance with designing your next kitchen, why not make an appointment with Tahleah Hoyle Design? We'll be with you every step of the way.
