A wood cabinet is a wood cabinet, right? … Wrong. There are hundreds of different types of woods used all across the globe, and each species has its own unique coloring, grain patterns, and textures. It may not have the obvious differences as white and black cabinets, but each wood type is certainly unique. Understanding the differences between types of wood used in kitchen construction projects can help you choose the perfect style for your home!

Differences Between Types of Wood Used in Kitchen Construction Projects

As we said earlier, there are hundreds of types of wood, so for the sake of this article, we’ll stick to a selection of some of the most common in the United States.

Alder

With a light-brown to reddish undertone and an even-textured grain, alder is a popular wood for kitchen cabinetry. It holds stains evenly and creates a rustic appeal that is popular in many different design styles.

Ash

Among the most popular woods, ash is often the lightest in color. It has very little graining and takes a stain well, making it extremely versatile. It also holds paints well and is often used for the foundation of cabinets.

Cherry

With reddish undertones and a relatively uniform texture, cherry is often used in kitchens with a formal, refined style. It is elegant and smooth with a closed-grain appearance.

Beech

Beech wood is a popular source for furniture makers and has been used throughout history as fuel and even shoes. It’s also a gorgeous wood for cabinetry thanks to a light-brown coloring and straight grain.

Maple

Like cherry, this type of wood also has a smooth and uniform appearance, but it’s also one of the lightest woods available. It has very little graining compared to other woods, and it’s often used as a base for stains.

Oak

According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, oak is the most common type for solid wood cabinets. Oak is extremely versatile and can be stained to almost any color. It looks great in many different design styles, but is particularly popular in country-themed kitchens.

Pine

Another popular wood for country designs, pine has a natural yellowish coloring and is marked by numerous knots, which gives is a distinct appearance. However, it can be softer than other wood, which makes it easy to dent or gouge.

Now that you understand the differences between types of wood used in kitchen construction projects, you are better equipped to choose the right material for your home.

Helping You Understand the Differences Between Types of Wood Used in Kitchen Construction Projects

Contact JK Cabinets & Design for more information on the various types of wood used in kitchen construction.

We’ll design the perfect kitchen for your needs, creating an elegant home that makes you happy for years!