What are the advantages and disadvantages of enamel kitchens? Tips and reviews from owners

16.05.2018 0

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Finishing materials and furniture for the kitchen must be resistant to moisture and dirt. In this regard, impeccably shiny enamel facades seem not entirely practical to some owners. In the photo, glossy sets look very elegant, and how they perform in use can be determined by real reviews from owners of enamel kitchens.

Chipboard

An option for those who want to update their kitchen quickly and economically. The facades are based on slabs of compressed sawdust and shavings, which are impregnated with formaldehyde resins. To give the surface an attractive appearance, it is covered with a polymer film, resulting in laminated chipboard.

Advantages

1. Low price
2. Variety of colors
3. Resistance to damage

Flaws

1. Chipboard slabs do not bend, so the surfaces are made in strictly geometric shapes
2. Simplicity of appearance
3. Short service life
4. Absorbs moisture and odors well
5. Since this material is not dense, the holes for the screws become loose over time.

Photo gallery

The basis of the kitchen interior is the furniture. It is important to compare high functionality and aesthetic appearance . It is necessary to choose a material that will last for several years. Quality depends on the manufacturing and processing process. Manufacturers offer a wide variety of models. Recently, enamel coating has become the most popular. It has a number of advantages over other products. Before purchasing, you need to know the specifics of selection and care.

MDF in PVC film

This is a material that is sawdust glued together with lignin or paraffin (health-safe substances contained in natural wood). The kitchen set, made of MDF, is characterized by elegant shapes.

Advantages

1. Long service life
2. Resistance to temperature changes
3. Large selection of colors
4. Moisture resistance
5. Easy to care for

Flaws

1. Due to the use of low-quality glue, the film may peel off
2. Decorative panels are subject to mechanical damage (easily scratched).
3. Under the influence of ultraviolet rays, bright colors lose their attractive appearance.

Features of MDF facades coated with enamel (painted)

What is a kitchen façade? These are drawer and cabinet doors covered with decorative materials to create an original design. The modern furniture manufacturing industry boasts a large number of materials used for the manufacture of facades. The most popular today are facades made of MDF panels , which have a fairly affordable price and are easy to process. This makes it possible to create facades for kitchens of both the middle and high price segments. The final price primarily depends on the materials used to cover the facades. One of them is enamel; such facades are also called painted , due to the specific treatment of the surface of the panels.

Why is MDF so often used in kitchen construction? There are all reasons for this, from price to processing. MDF is a sheet of wood chips and resins compressed under high pressure and temperature. During the manufacturing process, the slab acquires the necessary characteristics for processing. First of all, the distinctive quality of MDF boards is their high density; such boards are even more durable than natural solid wood. Thus, a kitchen with MDF facades can withstand high pressure and preserve the structure, and screws and nails will be tightly fixed inside the slab.

The undoubted advantage of MDF panels is their processing capabilities, which cannot be said about chipboard. Firstly, the slabs can take almost any shape: curved, oval, wavy, etc., which is convenient for making rounded facades. Secondly, the surface of the slab lends itself perfectly to artistic carving and embossing. This way you can install a kitchen with stunning fronts not only in color but also in shape. Moreover, the MDF set is resistant to moisture and temperature changes , which guarantees long-term and comfortable use.

Principles of manufacturing painted facades

Coating facades with enamel is one of the popular ways to decorate them. If you prefer curly facades with bright patterns on the treated surface, choose enamel. Thanks to the proven process of applying paint to the slab, facades retain their appearance for a long time. So, how is enamel applied?

• An MDF board 16–18 mm thick is treated with filler to remove air from the surface. Next, it is dried and excess material is removed from the surface.
• The dry surface is sanded with emery and covered with an insulator . Dried and sanded again.
• A layer of primer is applied to the finished surface , which dries in approximately 8–10 hours. Then it is sanded again.
• A layer of enamel is applied . The more layers of paint are applied, the higher quality, wear-resistant façade is produced. This point can be clarified with the seller or manufacturer.
• After applying the paint, the surface dries, is varnished and thoroughly polished .

This slab coating technique is similar to car painting technology . This approach guarantees high-quality results and durability of the finished product. Moreover, you can choose the texture and effect to create a unique design. For example, for a modern design, a glossy surface would be an ideal option, for a classic one, a matte surface . If you prefer a “shabby chic” or “vintage” style, feel free to choose patination - the effect of an aged surface using a special technique.

Pros and cons of using enamel-coated facades

The undeniable advantage of painted MDF facades is the implementation of almost any design. The possibility of giving various shapes and radius processing allows you to create original samples. For example, if you do not tolerate standards, a rounded kitchen may be your option. In this case, the facades of the kitchen unit are processed so that they take on a curved shape without loss of quality . Processing along any radius allows you to create small bends and give the necessary shape to drawers.

Unlike plastic facades, painted surfaces can be treated as desired . Since MDF is a fairly dense material, fine carving or embossing will not damage the structure, and the finished elements will retain their shape. For example, you decide to create a kitchen in a country style. An excellent option for decorating facades would be lasso or horse embossing. This option will create some zest in your kitchen and emphasize the mood, and the matte surface will enhance the effect.

A rich palette of colors is not all. You can not only install a kitchen set in a juicy peach or black color, but also create a true masterpiece. Thanks to its matte or glossy texture, such a set can affect the overall perception of the kitchen: bring it closer or further away, lower the ceiling or expand the walls. In addition, manufacturers offer to use the effect of mother-of-pearl and pearls, metallized surfaces, chameleon facades, and airbrushing to create truly unique facades. This move will highlight your individuality.

If you order a kitchen based on a personal sample, not only catalog color options are available to you - RAL . You can also use other samples: thanks to special equipment, exactly the halftone and effect that you need is created. Now you can create a set that perfectly matches your wallpaper or tile border.

Using the technique of applying enamel to the surface of an MDF board, you can create not only unique facades. If your set has open shelves, you can also order them to be covered with enamel . Decorative elements of the set, housings of hoods and plinths can be stylized using enamel. This feature significantly increases the possibility of creating a unique design.

Significant advantages important for any housewife are:

• Easy to care for. Painted facades are easy to clean using ordinary detergents . You do not need to purchase special solutions for quality care.
• The surface of the facades does not absorb odors , this will limit you from regularly using the flavor in the kitchen.
• Resistance to moisture guarantees the preservation of the original shape and the absence of surface delamination.
• With prolonged use, such facades retain their appearance and do not warp .

The disadvantages include the rather high cost : the price of such a set will significantly exceed the cost of a kitchen with PVC film or plastic facades. Regardless of the chosen surface effect, any hand touches will leave stains: you will have to wipe the facades quite often to maintain an aesthetic appearance.

If your kitchen is located on the sunny side , choose a different material for the set. Facades coated with enamel fade quite quickly under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Also, the back side of such facades is usually white, which is typical for a certain type of surface treatment of MDF boards. And one more important point: if you have hyperactive children at home, they may accidentally hit the doors, which will lead to chips or cracks , since these facades are afraid of mechanical damage. A small number of disadvantages and a huge number of advantages of facades with enamel contribute to their popularity among many connoisseurs of beauty, practicality and original design.

Pros and cons of painted MDF facades video:

AGT facades

Advantages

1. Aesthetics
2. Resistance to moisture and mechanical damage.
3. Affordability
4. Easy to care for
5. UV resistance
6. Abundance of decors and textures
7. Environmental friendliness

Flaws

1. Fingerprints, dust and other contaminants are visible on the smooth surface
2. To make the kitchen look harmonious, it is important to correctly combine the colors of glossy surfaces
3. Sometimes the film on the panels may peel off

Such surfaces are covered with several layers, which allow the furniture to maintain an attractive presentation, despite a long time of use.

Film facades: pros and cons, comparison with other options

from February 9, 2014
Film facades are a popular modern solution for the front decoration of furniture: they are economical, varied in color, and allow you to imitate various surfaces. But sometimes buyers have distrust in the quality and durability of such furniture. Many people have the impression that these facades are covered with ordinary film, which can be bought at construction or hardware stores. To understand this mistake, you need to take a closer look at the production technology of film facades and their characteristics.

Enamel

Gloss and unique shine immediately catches the eye. Kitchen sets with decorative panels coated with enamel are the choice of those who are looking for high-quality furniture at a reasonable price.

Advantages

1. Huge range of colors
2. Various effects (mother of pearl, metallic, chameleon and others)
3. Does not absorb odors
4. High temperature resistance
5. If the tone of the facade gets boring, you can always update it
6. Milling and patina possible

Flaws

1. When exposed to sunlight, the paint fades
2. Impacts cause chips and cracks
3. Average moisture resistance
4. Excessively visible fingerprints and grease stains

Reviews and advice from owners

People who choose enamel kitchens are sure: beauty requires sacrifice. The elegant look of the room is worth buying furniture with glossy fronts. Dirt is very noticeable on a dark surface. Therefore, if you don’t want to do cleaning and polishing several times a day, give preference to a light-colored set. In addition, shiny pastel enamel helps to visually enlarge the space. This is especially appreciated by owners of small kitchens.

Advice. Dirt and grease, as well as streaks and drips from dried splashes, are most noticeable in areas exposed to sunlight. If the size of the kitchen allows, take this into account when arranging furniture.

Many consumers also don't like scratches and chips on the surface, which are difficult to protect against while working in the kitchen. Enterprising housewives manage to mask minor damage with ordinary nail polish, matched to the tone of the enamel. Sometimes scratches appear even after unsuccessful washing of facades. Find out in advance the rules for caring for a varnished surface, and also study opinions about furniture manufacturers so as not to buy a low-quality set.

The enamel coating is capricious and demanding in its own way, but it looks very advantageous in the interior, filling it with light and shine. Such a room does not seem trivial. When choosing a headset, rely on the recommendations of experts, consumer reviews, as well as personal preferences. If you are ready to carefully care for the enamel, feel free to buy elegant furniture that will brightly and stylishly transform your kitchen.

Veneered facades

Visually, facades covered with thin veneer are close to surfaces made of valuable wood. To ensure that decorative panels last as long as possible, they are coated with special antiseptic agents. Veneer is also used to make not only straight, but also radius facades.

Advantages

1. Aesthetics
2. The material is resistant to high humidity compared to natural wood
3. Resistance to mechanical damage
4. Low price (when compared with natural wood)
5. Environmental friendliness

Flaws

1. High price relative to other options
2. Under the influence of ultraviolet rays, veneer loses its presentation
3. If the veneer is poorly glued, it may peel off over time.

Differences from acrylic facades

Both materials - enamel and acrylic - are characterized by a luxurious shine that captivates the eye. And although enamel facades are not only glossy, but also matte, when choosing a set, consumers often compare these particular coatings. It is impossible to say for sure which of them has more pros or cons. Rely on your own preferences, as well as the basic characteristics of the materials:

1. The shine of the enamel is less bright than the shine of an acrylic kitchen. Remember that spending a long time in a room where gloss predominates can have a stimulating effect. This is harmful for people with unstable mental health.
2. Acrylic facades are most often straight. Enamel kitchens can have almost any configuration. Another plus is that they have a wider color palette. The differences are due to manufacturing technology.
3. Both types of coating are considered environmentally friendly and easy to maintain.
4. If we compare them in terms of strength, then acrylic has an advantage over enamel.

Attention! The average cost of both headsets is approximately the same. They are more expensive than film facades, but cheaper than solid wood kitchens.

Combined facades

Front decorative panels covered with veneer and enamel at the same time are an option for those who are looking for non-standard design solutions. Typically, such facades are used when decorating a kitchen in the Art Nouveau style.

Advantages

1. Low price compared to kitchen sets made from natural wood
2. Increased moisture resistance and strength
3. Possibility of manufacturing radius facades

Flaws

1. The veneer may peel off from the substrate
2. UV Exposure
3. Fingerprints and dirt are visible on glossy areas

Kitchen fronts are not cheap. It is necessary to approach their choice with full responsibility; the final decision is made only after weighing all the pros and cons.

Characteristic

Several layers of enamel are applied to the facade, and the more there are, the stronger the product (the best option is 4-8 ). MDF is used as a basis , since the surface of the plastic peels off and crumbles.

The facade is primed and paint is applied in several stages. As soon as the new layer dries, the surface is sanded. This increases the strength of the product.

At the final stage, an enamel layer is applied. It is needed to protect the headset and aesthetic beauty.

Types of coating:

1. Glossy.
2. Metallic.
3. Matte.
4. Chameleon.

For an enamel kitchen, it is advisable to choose light colors , since dirt is more visible on dark ones.

It is better to purchase kitchen furniture to order . So, you will have the opportunity to choose a unique style. Nowadays it is popular to combine a kitchen with a dining area. They are designed in a single design.

What to look for when choosing facades in furniture stores

A modern kitchen is used for more than just cooking. This is a place where romantic evenings and noisy family celebrations are held. Therefore, when arranging a room, every detail is thought through. When choosing a kitchen set, specialists from the Antares store advise taking into account the following nuances:

• allocated budget;
• color spectrum;
• preferred style.

Kitchen units based on AGT facades are in demand, however, if you have a limited budget, you can also take a closer look at facades made of chipboard. You should not skimp on the quality of materials; the appearance, comfort, and duration of use of the furniture depend on this indicator.

Types of enamel paints in kitchen painting

The chemical composition of enamel paints, which provides their protective properties, determines their main drawback. Enamel paints are toxic and fire hazard to one degree or another.

The fire hazard of enamels relates more to their liquid state, but even when exposed they burn well. The toxicity of paints determines the place of their application, dividing paints into compositions for interior, exterior or universal use.

Based on their composition, enamel paints are divided into the following types.

Alkyd paints. Refers to paints based on natural components. They create a durable protective, but not elastic, film on a wooden, metal or stone surface. Can be used both outdoors and indoors.

Pentaphthalic paints. This is a type of alkyd paint based on glycerin. These paints are marked with two capital letters PF with numbers. It is worth noting that it is pentaphthalic enamels that have found the greatest application in everyday life.

For example, enamel PF-115 is a pentaphthalic alkyd enamel paint for interior and exterior use. Used for painting wooden surfaces and products, stone walls after plastering, and various metals.

Related article: Scheme for laying tiles on a kitchen apron

In the kitchen, PF-115 can be used for painting wooden products, windows, baseboards, doors, and less often heating radiators and metal structures and products. Work with this paint with open windows, ventilation is required. The paint has a high degree of protection against precipitation and a wide range of colors.

PF-226 enamel is interesting for the kitchen. It is used for painting floors with enamel. The first number “2” in the marking means that this enamel is intended for interior work and working with it is somewhat easier. The color of this enamel is closer to brown.

Glyphthalic paints. Belongs to the group of alkyd paints. They are marked with two letters “GF” with numbers. They are practically not used in everyday life due to the long drying time (three days) and the insufficiently smooth film.

Oil paints. A type of enamel paint based on natural oils and toxic solvents. It has a pungent odor and long drying time (up to 3 days). The advantages include high adhesion, versatility of application, and the highest water-repellent properties. Previously, they were widely used for painting walls in apartments, including kitchens.

The modern use of MA oil paints in interior decoration is questionable due to the presence of more technologically advanced analogues. However, they can be used for high-strength painting of doors and windows.

Niroenamel. This type of enamel paint has a pungent odor and very fast drying (3-4 hours). The letter field is marked with two letters “NC” and numbers. Designed for painting wood or metal, indoors or outdoors. Apply by roller or spray. They dry quickly, but have a strong toxic odor.

In the kitchen they can be used to create glossy surfaces of doors, windows, and wooden furniture facades.

Features of the material

Facades made of painted MDF have literally burst into the furniture market in recent years and have rightfully taken a leading position. Kitchen furniture made from painted MDF is very durable and reliable, it competes with wooden furniture and is in no way inferior to it in either beauty or practicality. The thing is that the production of painted MDF does not involve the presence of harmful chemical compounds and is environmentally friendly. The board consists of tiny grains of wood dust, which, when exposed to high temperatures, release a substance called lignin.

The latter, in combination with paraffin after pressing, promotes the formation of a dense monolithic material. Despite the strength of painted MDF, it is very practical in the manufacture of products, as it tends to sag under high temperatures, which allows you to make the furniture elegant. Its shape can be oval or round; the material allows you to make facades with carved patterns and other original decorative elements.

By painting MDF panels you can create any original design

Design solutions with enameled facades

Kitchen design using enamel facades can be very diverse, because the palette of colors is huge, and the ability to use gloss or matte varnish makes the choice even more difficult. You can choose the optimal solution taking into account the style in which the interior is planned.

• Classic prefers matte solutions made in noble shades. The kitchen here is white, cream, beige, milky. There may be burgundy, ripe cherry color, as well as veneer or natural wood without painting. Kitchen facades in this style are usually decorated with milling or moldings.
• Modern is a style of smooth, natural lines that reflect the natural flow of life. Radius facades and corner kitchens with rounded cabinets are popular here. Matte varnishes are more often used, although the use of glossy surfaces is not alien to modernism. In such an interior, it is more likely that veneer will be present on the furniture than plastic or acrylic. A white kitchen or one made in natural shades of green, blue or orange is preferable. They cannot be too bright, since in nature they exist, although in deep, but still not in obsessive colors.
• Country. The rustic style does not like gloss or any shine; only matte surfaces are used here. Only cleanly washed tiles can shine. Veneer is appropriate for decoration, and the kitchen, as in modern and classic, is most often chosen to be white.
• Modern styles ─ such as minimalism, hi-tech or Japanese style ─ are a celebration of the technology of our time. Everything here is functional, and the decor is the furniture itself, so smooth facades of any color, often glossy, are used. Of course, they can be not only enameled, but also plastic - this is a matter of taste and budget. An interesting discovery by the designers was enamel and veneer in one finish: veneer strips are placed under a final glossy varnish, which makes the furniture look exclusive and extraordinary.