MDF facades: PVC or paint?
Kitchen with MDF film facades MDF facades are very popular.
Kitchen furniture with such fronts is preferable to solid wood furniture. Firstly, because solid wood is more expensive. Secondly, such material is less practical. Despite the fact that MDF is essentially sawdust. MDF facades have the following advantages:
- strength
- durability
- resistance to external negative influences
Environmental friendliness is another advantage. No harmful substances are used when pressing sawdust. They stick tightly to each other due to the release of a special substance contained in the wood. The problem of choice does not end there.
Which ones should you choose?
Each of the facade options proposed above has its own disadvantages and advantages. In general, thanks to modern production technologies, they all work perfectly in the kitchen, but there are nuances. For example, painted facades, unlike film ones, cannot have a wood structure or pattern, but we have the opportunity to give them absolutely any color. The disadvantage of plastic facades is that milling cannot be done on such facades. At the same time, there is a definite plus: they can withstand temperatures up to 240 degrees Celsius (according to some experiments, even more).
Solid wood facades are a very individual product that is not suitable for everyone. Firstly, they are quite expensive compared to all other options. Secondly, they require proper conscious care. But with good care they will last in the kitchen for up to 50 years, and possibly longer.
CONS of acrylic kitchen facades
- Uniform surface without patterns or woody colors.
- A small palette of choice - 21 glossy and 7 matte colors.
- Resistance to increased scratches is lower than that of equivalently priced HPL plastic.
- SUPER GLOSSY. Judging by the reviews of owners of acrylic kitchens, some consider the perfect gloss to be a plus, while others consider the dazzling shine of its solar reflections to be a minus. If you don't want to give up acrylic beauty. We recommend complementing the interior with curtains or roller blinds, or... Order furniture made from super-matte nano-plastic FENIX NTM.
It is not a shortcoming, but a feature of acrylic that our company abandoned the production of glass facades (showcases).
Using the trial method, we realized that high-quality processing of the inner side of the ends with an edge is impossible. And the use of chrome beads on expensive acrylic material reduces the cost of the set as a whole.
Summarizing the pros and cons of an acrylic kitchen
The pros of an acrylic kitchen outweigh the cons. But this is our opinion. Let us remind you that practicality and functionality, external beauty and stunning characteristics can fill your home with a new style. And the disadvantages of a limited range of colors should not prevent this!
Moreover, when the manufacture of facades is offered to you by the manufacturer at a cost without markups.
Production of MDF with paint and MDF with film
The film is applied to MDF facades using a press, creating high temperature and vacuum. Paint is applied under normal conditions: at “room” temperature, with existing atmospheric pressure. First, the surface of the MDF facade is coated with a primer. Next, a special enamel is applied. If necessary, additional layers of enamel are applied and the façade is varnished.
The properties of furniture facades also depend on coating technologies.
What paint is suitable for MDF?
How can you paint MDF?
- water-based compositions (water-based). ...
- compositions based on alkyd enamels. ...
- silicone materials. ...
- polyvinyl acetate materials - suitable only if the product is not subject to heavy loads or damage;
- oil-based compositions are moisture resistant;
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Comparative analysis
Furniture facades MDF PVC and facades coated with paint have certain features that it is advisable to analyze and compare in order to make the right choice. Let's make a comparison:
- Film is cheaper than paint. Consequently, film-coated facades will cost less.
- The film is more resistant to mechanical stress. It is not as easy to scratch as it seems. It can withstand relatively high temperatures. Not afraid of moderate exposure to ultraviolet radiation. A surface coated with paint is easier to damage as a result of mechanical stress.
- You can clean the film surface without paying special attention to the choice of cleaning product. A painted façade can only be cleaned of dirt using special products.
- MDF PVC kitchen facades are somewhat less moisture resistant. Read the rules for using facades!
- When covering a facade with enamel, you can combine colors and create different effects. When using film, this is more difficult to do.
Here are just a few comparisons that already show that paint and film are completely different coatings with different properties.
Film is more practical and costs less. Therefore, you need to proceed from what is more important for a person who wants to purchase a kitchen with MDF facades. To dispel doubts about the quality of film facades, we wrote an article MDF facades: myths and misconceptions!
MDF White wood + gold patina
Kitchen facade patina silver
MDF facade with “Wave” milling
MDF film facade patina
ADVANTAGES of acrylic facades for the kitchen
LET'S START WITH A CLARIFICATION:
All the described advantages of an acrylic kitchen are relevant ONLY for QUALITY furniture polymer
(low-grade products have a completely different story)…
- Saturation of deep color + ultra-gloss of a smooth surface, confidently “bypassing” painted facades and plastic analogues (analysis of the differences between plastic and acrylic here).
- Resistance to UV radiation penetrating the window lasts for over 10 years (guaranteed that there will be no fading during this time).
- No fear of moisture, mold (does not rot), sharp objects, solvents and liquid cleaning chemicals.
- Resistance to mechanical and loads without surface deformation (you can place household appliances and heavy dishes).
- Possibility of creating radius parts for bold designer sets.
An important characteristic of the polymer material is NON-TOXIC - exposure to high temperatures will not cause the appearance of strong odors or harmful fumes.
Facades painted or prepared for painting
First of all, it is better to consider MDF kitchens, since today they are at the peak of popularity. The main advantage of such kitchens is a large selection of colors, if you choose already painted facades. But the list of advantages does not end there:
- All colors from the palette can be easily combined with each other.
- Painted MDF is easy to clean without the use of additional products.
- Possibility to make an individual design - curved or rounded facade.
- It does not absorb moisture and odors well, which is important for kitchen furniture.
- Large selection of coatings - matte, glossy or pearlescent.
However, do not forget that MDF for the kitchen also has its disadvantages:
- After a certain time, colors fade and lose their former attractiveness.
- A kitchen made of MDF is an expensive pleasure. Such furniture does not fall into budget options.
- The coating is very easily soiled and fingerprints always remain on it. To make the kitchen look neat, you will need to regularly wipe the facades.
- The material is not resistant to mechanical damage.
- The reverse side of the facades is white, and over time it will lose its whiteness.
Beautifully painted facades look great
The color of the kitchen set is the most important thing in kitchen design, since this part unites the entire design idea. There is a large selection of facades on the market. Painted MDF facades for kitchens are more popular than those that are simply prepared for painting. However, if you want to choose the right shade yourself, then it is better to choose the second option.
If you plan to paint MDF facades yourself, then take into account all the nuances during preparation, selection of paint and materials. Advantages of facades prepared for painting:
- Unlimited choice of color palette.
- Choice of any coating - matte or varnished.
- Wide selection of paints and varnishes.
- No additional processing of parts is required.
It is important to consider that the durability of the coating you choose depends on how accurately the painting technology is followed. When choosing paints and varnishes, pay attention to:
- Decorative. This is an important condition for creating a stylish interior.
- Material service life.
- Type of kitchen unit design.
- Coating thickness.
Advice: if you are in doubt about which material to choose for a particular product, it is better to contact a consultant in the store. He will tell you about all the advantages of each coating and how they differ from each other.
Important characteristics of paintwork materials include:
- Environmental friendliness. Most paints contain harmful and toxic substances that are not suitable for painting home furniture. Give preference to safe ingredients.
- Drying time. This parameter determines how quickly you will finish painting the facades. However, keep in mind that the time indicated on the jar is usually not accurate. Drying time directly depends on temperature and air humidity.
- Covering power. This parameter determines how many layers of paint are required for an even coating. Choose paintwork materials that are applied in one layer.
Painted MDF is very popular among housewives
What is the difference between chipboard and MDF: features of production and processing ↑
Budget materials for the kitchen facade are slabs made of wood chips and fibers. Commercial markings: chipboard and MDF. Despite the fact that both types of boards are made from crushed wood, their characteristics and performance differ.
Kitchen: MDF facades with film
The difference in structure is visible to the naked eye
What is a chipboard: characteristics ↑
When choosing which façade is best for the kitchen, buyers, focusing on low cost, give preference to chipboard. Particle board is made from waste from the wood processing industry.
Wood shavings, specially crushed, are filled with an adhesive composition. Among the ingredients are synthetic resins, which melt under high temperatures and glue the chips together. The material filled with resin is pressed under high pressure.
Internal structure of the slab: heterogeneity of particles and cavities
As a result, a fairly strong slab is obtained from a mixture of wood chips and glue. Slabs of different thicknesses are formed depending on the purpose - from 5-6 mm to 5 cm. The finished slabs must be sanded until the surface is completely smooth.
Budget is the main advantage of the material. There are many more disadvantages:
- The internal structure of the slab is heterogeneous.
- It is impossible to form a textured surface, the slabs are only smooth.
- Difficult to process, the material chips easily.
Chipboard with finishing coating
The main disadvantage is the release of formaldehyde compounds into the air. The material does not tolerate moisture well and swells when wet. The surface and edges must be covered with film or laminated - this reduces the risk of harmful substances entering the air.
MDF: how and what facades are made from ↑
MDF facades - what is it? MDF is a board made from wood fibers. Instead of shavings from production waste, finely dispersed wood fibers are used for production. The fibers also bond under pressure when exposed to high temperatures.
MDF board section
The fundamental difference is in the production process. Synthetic resins are not used in the manufacture of MDF boards. When the fiber mass is heated, natural resins are released that glue the particles together. Paraffin or lignin is used as an additional adhesive composition. These substances melt and fix the fibers in the internal structure. This production method allows you to obtain a material that is not a source of evaporation of harmful substances.
Advantages:
- Affordable price.
- Ease of processing.
Bent MDF Kitchen Cabinet Doors
- Possibility of creating bent shapes and fine milling.
Fine processing: framed facades, milling and texture
- Environmentally friendly.
Which material is better for a kitchen facade: advantages and disadvantages of slabs ↑
The answer to the question of which kitchen is better to choose is clear. If you have to choose between budget chipboards and MDF, give preference to MDF. The difference in price is small, but such a facade will last much longer.
Chipboard facades with film
An exception can be made only for laminated chipboards, which are used as inserts in an aluminum profile. It is the edge parts of the slabs that are most vulnerable to water ingress.
MDF options with film
Do not use standard chipboards covered with paper film for installation as a countertop. In the places where the sink is embedded, in a couple of years unesthetic waves will appear, and the top decorative layer will simply peel off from the base.
Chipboard can be used to make cabinet frames, side parts of cabinets, and shelves.
Facades covered with PVC film
Often on the market you can find kitchen sets made of MDF coated with PVC film. This film can imitate absolutely any coating, even the most expensive and elite wood. For this reason, this technology is popular. Before choosing this option, consider its advantages and disadvantages.
- The back side is white - it fades in the sun and is difficult to wash.
- With prolonged contact with water and hot steam, the film begins to peel off and bubbles appear on the surface, which spoil the appearance of the kitchen set.
- If you look at the furniture from a close distance, it is still noticeable that this is not a natural material, but an imitation.
- A kitchen with a film coating will cost you much less than one with painted facades.
- PVC film imitates any coating.
- Environmental friendliness. In addition, the film is resistant to mechanical damage.
- Facades are made of any size and shape.
Film MDF
The frequent use of this material for making furniture is explained by its popularity. The production process of its manufacture is much simpler than when producing a painted surface. The base is covered with a layer of PVC in a vacuum installation. This explains the financial availability of film MDF.
Positive aspects of film MDF:
- Design aesthetics . The industry produces a wide variety of colors. The film can be matte or glossy. High-quality matte surfaces are difficult to distinguish from painted ones. In addition, it is practiced to produce a textured film to special order that allows you to imitate wood.
- Possibility of milling . This allows you to diversify the design of facades.
- Affordable prices . In this regard, neither painted nor plastic products will compete with film MDF.
- Speed of production . To produce a furniture set from film FDF, 48 working days are enough, while other materials increase this figure to 68.
- High quality guarantee up to 5 years .
Disadvantages of film MDF:
- A small number of possible design solutions.
- Low threshold of heat resistance. The surface is damaged even if a hot kettle is placed on it.
- Low moisture resistance . Facades can be wiped with a damp cloth without harm, but they are negatively affected by prolonged exposure to water.
- React with chemicals.
- Gives the impression of inexpensive furniture.
- Inability to repair if significant damage is caused.
About plastic
MDF material for the kitchen is an excellent solution, especially when there is such a choice. However, it is worth considering kitchens made of plastic to make a final decision. First, pay attention to the positive points:
- Kitchens made of plastic have high wear resistance.
- The coatings are durable, they do not fade or lose color in the sun. Not afraid of moisture and steam.
- Any detergents are used for cleaning, because plastic kitchens are unpretentious.
- Suitable for different budgets. With an MDF base, this is a more expensive option. With chipboard - budget.
- Matte surfaces require special care.
- The plastic facade is easily soiled. Fingerprints remain on the surface.
- The inner sides of the walls are white.
- Sometimes the design in the center of the facade is distorted. This happens due to the fault of production technology.
Plastic facades for the kitchen are made in three main stylistic directions:
- Classic style. To implement this design idea, simple and uncomplicated shapes, neutral shades and a minimum of details are used.
- Empire style This style is characterized by various patterns and decorations. The color scheme is light and delicate. The shapes are thin and smooth.
- High tech. Popular style today. It uses many elements not only made of plastic, but also metal or glass. The choice of colors is organic - black, white or red. Sometimes metallic shades are used.
It is important to take this nuance into account when choosing which is better, MDF or plastic for the kitchen. However, plastic will limit you a little when creating an unusual design.
As you can see, a kitchen made of plastic-MDF will turn out to be almost identical in its characteristics, so making a choice is problematic. When choosing which kitchen is better, plastic or MDF, proceed primarily from your personal preferences or consult a professional designer. An experienced specialist, taking into account all the nuances, will help you decide.
About the nuances of production at Plastic Acrylic and... among competitors
We “extract” the acrylic plastic itself directly from the Senosan company in Austria. Next begins the filigree process of gluing it onto a durable base made of MDF canvas. So that when used in your kitchen, acrylic does not peel off wood boards. We use polyurethane glue and rolling technology with special rollers.
We talk about our production methods in more detail on another page... Here we would like to focus on the differences in technology compared to some competitors :
"Plastic Acrylic" | "Another company" | |
Edge edging | Glueless Air Tec seam creates a seamless fabric | With seams |
Back side coating | Gluing with matte acrylic plastic to protect against moisture and bending (uniform compensation) | Melamine paper is applied, which threatens to swell due to humidity, the facades will gradually begin to deform |
Thickness of acrylic over MDF | 1 mm Gives deep color | 0.6mm Reflects everything underneath |
We create custom-made high-quality acrylic kitchen facades. Proudly describing the pros, openly declaring the cons. We are confident that the products purchased from us will become the dominant feature of any interior for many years.
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Kitchen MDF or plastic: which is better to choose?
Choosing a kitchen set is always associated with a certain tension. After all, the design of this space requires taking into account several factors: the comfort of preparing and eating food, the convenience of storing and using objects and products, and aesthetic aspects. In short, you want the kitchen to be perfect. And then a lot of nuances emerge that you have to take into account when choosing and make a decision on them.
For example, the material from which the set or its facades are made. It’s quite difficult to choose in today’s variety. You need to weigh the characteristics of each, compare and decide what will be better in a particular case. Of course, photos and reviews won't hurt. We will consider the following comparative characteristics: MDF and plastic - which is better?
Plastic facades
Practicality is the main distinguishing feature of plastic covering of facades. The material is resistant to abrasion and practically does not lose its original color over the years. At the same time, plastic does not require any special care. The only disadvantage of the coating is its inability to be cleaned with abrasive agents.
Kitchen fronts from modern collections often use acrylic plastic with a mirror surface. To improve its aesthetic qualities, the material can be sanded. However, a beautiful appearance also requires careful care; the mirror surface is susceptible not only to “kitchen” stains, it even absorbs fingerprints.
Painted MDF
The market offers a huge selection of color solutions in this direction, so there are a lot of offers. In this diversity, you can lose the original idea, so it’s worth weighing everything carefully. If you use special forms of material, you can get a very original look for the kitchen.
The material is painted in the same way as painting a car: first the surface is cleaned, then primed, and then painted in several layers. Moreover, their quantity is determined by the qualities of the base. And at the end, a layer of varnish is applied to protect the coating from external influences.
Which MDF is better to use for what?
There is no clear answer to this question, as it depends on several factors . Firstly, it is necessary to clarify under what conditions the furniture will be used . Secondly, the financial capabilities of the buyer . Thirdly, find out the taste inclinations of the future user.
If we are talking about furniture for the kitchen, bathroom or toilet, then it is better to give preference to painted MDF. Such panels withstand even prolonged exposure to moisture. In addition, the rich color spectrum allows you to create an appropriate atmosphere in these rooms.
Furniture for the hall should look solemn and elegant, which means it is worth buying something that is made of painted solid wood. This statement applies to both recreation areas and sleeping areas. If you choose a film option, then only from well-known manufacturers and matte. In this case, laminated MDF is very difficult to distinguish from painted MDF.
Source
MDF covered with PVC film
This is an inexpensive solution, so it has a certain list of disadvantages. For example, a slightly old-fashioned appearance. This is largely due to the lack of texture in the drawing. But this allows you to save significantly. And if you need a budget kitchen model, then it can be made of this material.
Lamination of the material with PVC film occurs in press equipment. First, glue is applied to the surface. Its qualities influence the final appearance.
Advantages
- good budget option;
- resistance to external influences;
- for care, the use of chemically aggressive agents is allowed;
- large assortment of colors and textures;
- The production of unusual samples is allowed, which does not greatly affect the price.
Flaws
- after a certain period, the color of the material becomes dull;
- if a pattern imitating the structure of wood is used, the set gets a “cheaper” appearance;
- in places of increased load during operation, the film may peel off;
- Since the back side of the façade is white, it runs the risk of turning yellow after a while.
What do painted and film MDF have in common?
Each of these types of products has positive aspects, but only some of them are shared by both:
- Strength indicators are at a high level.
- The appearance is eye-catching.
- The surface is easy to clean from dirt.
- The quality is greatly influenced by the accuracy of manufacturing technologies.
- Prevents the spread of fungus and mold.
- The non-porous surface allows you to easily remove traces of natural dyes such as coffee, natural juices, wine, and blood.
Frame MDF
Despite the original appearance, the kitchen remains in the budget segment. And even though this option has certain disadvantages, the appearance, style and texture are close to solid wood.
This solution can be combined with rattan, mirrors and glass.
Advantages
- you can combine several materials in one façade;
- it is possible to insert several elements into the frame;
- lighter weight than array;
- the size can be any, and the price does not vary much;
- In general, this is a budget option.
Flaws
- low resistance to moisture;
- you have to make an effort to care;
- When exposed to elevated temperatures, the material can peel off, which often occurs in the slab area.
Painted MDF
Products made from MDF are given unusual and attractive shapes, which are painted in a large palette of colors and shades. However, one must understand that in addition to the advantages of this material, there are also disadvantages.
Advantages of painted MDF facades:
Disadvantages of painted MDF:
Plastic
Another solution that is often used in modern kitchens is covering the facades with plastic. The environment in which it has to be does not allow making the kitchen completely plastic, so only the covering is done.
There are two technologies that are used to create facades covered with plastic:
- The plastic is glued to the chipboard.
- Plastic is glued to MDF.
There are several ways to process ends:
- PVC or acrylic edge, you can make the ends a different color than the main plane;
- aluminum profile edging;
- postforming - obtaining ends without seams.
Advantages
- resistance to damp environments;
- long service life;
- resistance to chemically active household products;
- wide range of color solutions;
- resistance to ultraviolet radiation.
Flaws
- The matte surface does not wash well, and over time the aesthetic properties deteriorate;
- the back side, as a rule, is white, which causes a fairly rapid deterioration in the appearance of this part of the facade;
- During production by cold pressing, geometric distortions occur;
- Fingerprints remain on the coating, which affects visual perception.
Which is better: plastic or film on the kitchen facade ↑
If MDF for the kitchen is the optimal basis for the facade, then difficulties always arise with the choice of the top layer. What to prefer: plastic, enamel, film? Evaluate the appearance, compare the cost, and, most importantly, determine exactly how much time you are willing to spend every day on caring for the furniture.
Advantages and disadvantages of film headsets ↑
The best combination of price, quality and aesthetics is found in film facades with an MDF base. The material is easy to care for. Easy to clean with ordinary household chemicals. The film can only be deformed under the influence of high temperature and steam. It is necessary to ensure that the sun's rays do not reach the surface from the window.
The advantage is an unlimited number of design options, the ability to individually combine colors and textures, and cover complex shapes.
Poppies on PVC film: designer kit
Matte film with a wood pattern is used to create classic sets with carved facades.
Practical surface: the matte finish does not show stains
Both film and plastic can serve as canvas for photo printing. Multi-colored drawings and photographs also have practical value: water stains are less noticeable on them than on plain glossy facades.
Bright and extraordinary kitchen: film on MDF
Designers combine several colors and textures in 2 main shades, as in this “chocolate” kitchen.
Floral print film
Design and operation of plastic headsets ↑
Plastic MDF facades look bright: rich colors, mirror shine. The material is not afraid of the sun, high temperature and humidity levels. But glossy plastic panels require regular maintenance. Fingerprints remain on the mirror surface, splashes of clean water leave stains.
Semi-matte plastic textures are more practical than glossy ones.
The most fashionable color of the season in plastic kitchen facades
Glossy plastic, even in a dark color, will make a small kitchen extraordinary and spacious.
Small set with a plastic facade
Those who love gloss will have to polish their kitchen daily until it shines.
Monochromatic set: the highlight is the shade
The latest trend in kitchen fashion: plastic in an aluminum profile.
Acid-colored plastic with aluminum frame
Painted MDF: stylish solutions for modern kitchens ↑
Unlike plastic and film, enamel fits perfectly on any surface. Painted facades require careful handling and specific care. Lacquered enamel cannot be cleaned with conventional products containing chlorine and some surfactants. Cleaning with powders is prohibited.
Gold painted kitchen: enamel on MDF
It is better not to use sponges with a hard layer. When exposed to aggressive conditions, the varnish becomes covered with a network of small scratches and the surface loses its shine. You can restore the original appearance by polishing, but the top protective layer becomes thinner during polishing. It will not be possible to carry out the procedure multiple times.
Enamel is the choice for kitchens with complex-shaped facades.
Glossy red painted set
A combination of two colors and an interesting solution for the shape of the doors: with longitudinal stripes and contrasting paint.
Anthracite and red: a successful combination of shape, color and shine
Futuristic 3D facades without external fittings. You just need to touch the door to open the cabinet. Laconic form and complex texture – a game of contrast.
Painted textured MDF panels
Airbrushing is a feature that emphasizes uniqueness. Each drawing is created only once.
Kitchen with sparkle: airbrush on enamel
Veneer and solid wood: luxury of natural wood ↑
Veneer coating is increasingly being combined with other facade decoration options. For example, a patina, enamel or varnish is applied to a veneered façade. Veneered facades are combined in one set with painted or film panels.
Patinated veneer on MDF
The veneer in a warm golden hue contrasts with the black gloss of the plastic and photo printing on the dark glass of the apron - an interesting idea.
Design project: veneer in one set with plastic and glass
Veneer in a fashionable light-colored zebrawood texture will fit perfectly into a small modern kitchen with a snow-white upper tier of cabinets.
Film and veneered MDF in one set
Video: how facades are made with PVC film ↑
Video: the manufacturer shows the entire process of covering MDF panels with decorative film.
If you find it difficult to choose the finishing decor, contact the designer. A specialist will advise which type of coating will be best for your kitchen set. When ordering individual production, be sure to ask what material the base is made of. Find out which manufacturer's materials are used to cover the facades. Ask for a warranty in case there are problems with the finishing coat.
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What to choose?
Understanding the characteristics of a particular material, you can make a choice in one favor or another. The main thing is to clearly correlate the disadvantages and advantages with your conditions and views, and also with your purchase budget.
After all, the cost of a kitchen set very often plays a significant role in the choice. Therefore, everyone chooses for themselves whether to choose plastic or MDF. It is only important to get the best option in terms of external and internal characteristics, focusing on reviews and photos.
Read kitchen reviews
Buyers of plastic, acrylic and enamel kitchens left their reviews. Interested in knowing their opinion about the purchase? Then read on.
On a note
We have had a kitchen with glossy enamel fronts (dark gray top, bright orange bottom) for 4 years. Beautiful. Of course, the bottom gets dirty all the time, but it depends on how you treat it. There are two small children in the house, so, of course, they don’t carefully open the drawers by the handles. But everything washes off easily. And then, on a lighter facade, the spots are not particularly visible, especially if bright light does not fall on them. We are glad.
On a note
I immediately decided that my kitchen facades would be made of plastic. Caring for furniture is generally beautiful, you just need to periodically wipe it with a cloth, it’s simple. In terms of cost, again, a kitchen is much more budget-friendly than one made from other materials, but at the same time it is in no way inferior in its characteristics.
On a note
I can say the following about my kitchen - acrylic facades look incredibly beautiful, but to my great regret they are very difficult to maintain. Our kitchen is located on the sunny side, so it turns out that every speck of dust is visible on it, so we have to constantly clean it.
Rational balance: facades made of MDF coated with PVC film
A kitchen set with MDF facades is perhaps the most popular solution on the market. There are several reasons for this popularity. Firstly, MDF boards can be milled - this means that any relief can be created on the surface and panels can be created (compare with laminated chipboard: this material cannot be milled, which means that the facades can only be smooth). Secondly, the film responds to any design request - it can be made in different colors or imitate natural textures. Thirdly, the film covers not only the front part of the facades, but also the edges - and edging increases the service life of the kitchen by two and a half times.
Our factory works with this particular combination of materials. The arguments in favor of the tandem “MDF plus PVC film” are much more significant than the small shortcomings that, by the way, any material has.
affordable price. You can purchase our set for a price starting from 70 thousand rubles. The kitchen bodies are made of laminated chipboard - this affordable material does not increase the cost, but has proven itself well as a structural element;
large selection of shades. Our palette includes more than 150 shades - from calm natural colors to bright, open colors and wood imitation. This means that the kitchen will be easy to fit into any interior;
practicality. MDF coated with PVC film is a solution for a kitchen where you cook every day: the facades are easy to clean and can easily withstand contact with moisture and high temperatures;
environmental friendliness. Both MDF and PVC film are absolutely safe materials for kitchen facades. The main characteristics are confirmed by our sixteen years of experience.
instability to mechanical damage. If such a surface is scratched with a knife, it will be impossible to sand and restore it.
Something special: facades made of glass or ceramics
You won’t surprise anyone with a ceramic countertop or glass apron. But in recent years, these materials have begun to be used to create kitchen facades. So far they can be seen mainly at interior exhibitions - but gradually they are penetrating into luxury home kitchens.
unusual aesthetics: glass and ceramics are still rare materials for kitchen facades. The main characteristics make the kitchen unique and focus attention on it;
long lasting color. The glass is painted from the inside, and the ceramics are in bulk, so the paint layer cannot be damaged.
very high price: glass and ceramic facades are attributes of a premium-segment kitchen;
impossibility of repair. If a crack appears (for example, from an impact), the entire sash will have to be replaced. Considering the cost of materials, replacing even one element can seriously hit the budget.
Alternative: MDF with enamel coating
The design of the facades is the same, but the finishing coating is different. The MDF board is first primed, then coated with paint in several layers, varnished and polished. The surface can be given a matte or glossy texture.
variety of shades. In this parameter, enamels are similar to film: the palette is almost unlimited. True, it will not be possible to imitate wood or concrete texture, unlike film;
practicality. Enamel does not absorb odors and is not afraid of moisture.
the cost is higher than film facades. This is due to a more complex material application technology;
unstable color. Enamels fade in direct sunlight or high temperatures;
special care. Facades under enamel cannot be washed with abrasive and active alkaline agents - because of this, the fight against drops of grease and heavy dirt turns into a challenge.
Painted or laminated MDF. Which facade to choose for the kitchen?
Good afternoon friends!
Some of the most popular types of facades are painted and film MDF. That is why we decided to tell you the whole truth about these two types of facades.
Let's start with the base - MDF is a fine fraction, but if you go into the English abbreviation, it is a medium-density fiber board, and if in a very simple way it is compressed cardboard and fine wood dust. This material comes with single-sided lamination and double-sided lamination, kelp on MDF is always white - therefore MDF painted and laminated most often on the back side of the facade always has a white side
The production process of diaper facades occurs using glue and vacuum
A thin layer of adhesive mass is applied to the facade and the process of creating the facade layer takes place under a vacuum machine.
The production of a painted facade consists of 4 stages: an insulator is applied to the prepared MDF, then a primer, and after drying, paint and varnish are applied.
Let's now compare these two materials on a 5-point scale.
Looking at a kitchen set, it is not always possible at first to determine whether it is paint or laminated MDF. Only a few features can help you understand: if a part is the same color on both sides, it is painted MDF. If the facades have a wood texture on the face and the back is white, it is laminated MDF.
Also, if we compare two glossy facades: painted and laminated, then lamination is clearly inferior in terms of the layer of glossy coating, it is duller and upon closer examination you can see glue lumps that give the effect of shagreen on the facade.
From painted and laminated MDF you can make absolutely any kitchen from modern to classic style. So. Let's sum it up: for the visual effect I would give laminated MDF a 4, and painted MDF a 5.
Of course, touching the lamination there is a feeling of plastic; painting in this regard is much more pleasant to the touch. Even wood decors are perceived as artificial turf. Therefore, I give painted MDF 5, and laminated MDF 4.
Variety of decors and textures.
Painted MDF has three types of coating: gloss, matte and soft touch. In laminated, these 3 are added to a structural one, which perfectly replicates the decor of wood and silk.
The number of shades in which painted MDF can be painted is limited only by the NCS and RAL catalogs; it is also possible to paint in 2-3 colors, mix a matte layer with a glossy one on one facade, and follow any pattern. Lamination, like painting, also has films with a soft effect, and this is a definite plus, but the choice of colors is very limited, and this is a minus. Therefore, these materials receive a well-deserved 4 point for the variety of decors and textures.
Facade design and design features.
The design of laminate and paint facades can be identical, but there are some minor features. For example, a prefabricated facade can be made from MDF. And all internal angles will be clearly 90 degrees, which is virtually impossible when milling the front part, because the smallest cutter has a radius of 3mm.
On Laminated MDF it is impossible to make internal milling under the handle, which is undoubtedly an advantage for painted MDF.
On laminated facades, upon closer examination, you can find the junction of the film and MDF. Also, on milled laminated facades there are special holes on the back side, so that bubbles do not form under the film during vacuum gluing, unlike painted MDF, this does not need to be done.
Radial facades can be made from any of these materials, but complex geometric details are best made from painted MDF. I will give the design of painted MDF facades a 5, and laminated ones a 4.
The kitchen area is quite often susceptible to grease deposits - this is especially noticeable on glossy facades; painted MDF cannot be rubbed with abrasive sponges, solvents and harsh chemicals containing shamanite. Also, on a painted facade, frequent wiping in the same place can cause a layer of varnish to rub off over time, which will create a stain on the facade.
With laminated MDF it is a little easier, but solvents and harsh chemicals are also not recommended for care. Therefore, I will give these materials 4 points each
High segment: solid wood kitchens
Many people think that solid wood facades are solid wood. In most cases, this is not entirely true: boards glued together would dry out after the first heating season. Typically, the structure of a “massive” facade consists of several materials. The substrate is made from a sheet of chipboard or MDF.
The attractive appearance is determined by the finishing coating - natural wood finish under several layers of varnish or enamel.
variety of decor. Carved panels, patterns, classic cornices, patina - any effects look good on solid wood;
aesthetics of natural wood. The surface retains its decent appearance for a long time and ages beautifully.
array is expensive. Substrates made from budget materials slightly reduce the cost, but the array will not cost the same as a façade under film;
Wood does not tolerate prolonged contact with water and does not like household chemicals; it requires careful care.
Another solution: MDF coated with plastic
MDF board is an ideal base for various types of coatings, on which even plastic fits well. The coating is applied at high temperature and under pressure so that the finishing material does not peel off from the base. Such solutions are also in our assortment: plastic is a worthy alternative to PVC film.
durability. Plastic facades are resistant to moisture and high temperatures;
color saturation. Unlike enamels, plastic does not fade in the sun.
affordable price. The cost of a set with facades made of MDF coated with plastic is from 110 thousand rubles.
small palette. The color variability does not match that of PVC film, which is rich in different shades, but you can choose from 30 shades - our assortment includes all the popular basic colors.