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Thermofoil cabinets are a unique type of cabinetry made using a vinyl that is heated and pressurized onto an MDF core. Usually only used for cabinet doors and drawer fronts, Thermofoil cabinets come in many colors, styles, and finishes — even made in textures that resemble solid wood.
Do thermofoil cabinets peel?
Thermofoil is a considerably thinner (and cheaper) material than either wood veneer or laminate veneer and thus is much more susceptible to peeling. Heat, moisture, or a combination of the two often are enough to loosen the bond between the thin thermofoil layer and the MDF core.
What are the pros and cons of thermofoil cabinets?
The Pros & Cons of Thermofoil Cabinets Easy Care and Low Maintenance. Homeowners may be attracted to thermofoil cabinets because of their easy care and maintenance. Design and Color Versatility. Heat Resistance. Moisture Resistance. Cost, Installation and Repair.
What is the difference between thermofoil and laminate?
Laminate refers to any type of material used in the laminating process, whereas thermofoil constitutes a very specific type of PVC vinyl coating. Thermofoil comprises just one of the numerous laminates used in and around the home.
Are thermofoil cabinets bad?
Cons. Damage: Despite their durability, thermofoil kitchen cabinets are prone to damage. Additionally, thermofoil cabinets can be sensitive to excessive heat and moisture, so it is best to keep this in mind when thinking about placement.
How long do thermofoil cabinets last?
Lifespan: Thermofoil kitchen cabinets remain in pristine condition for around ten years if it is properly maintained. For the average cabinet, this lifespan is relatively short, but if you’re looking for something trendy that you’re willing to replace or upgrade in a few years, then Thermofoil is the perfect option.
Do thermofoil cabinets scratch easily?
What is Thermofoil? Surface finishes improve aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. Kitchen and bathroom cabinets need high-quality finishes that can withstand frequent use; otherwise, they’re vulnerable to scratches, dents, chips, and breakage. This is where thermofoil comes in.
Can you paint over thermofoil cabinets?
“You can paint over thermofoil, provided it isn’t peeling. First, ask your local paint store for the correct primer, then apply the finish paint you wish to use. Most of the time, semi-gloss sheen is used on [thermofoil] cabinets.”Aug 9, 2017.
What is better thermofoil or MDF?
Thermofoil fronts are a lot more stable to MDF being used as the core; however, because of the nature of how they are made, they can be susceptible to heat. Extended exposure to a heat source will result in the plastic material peeling away from the core and discoloring.
Are IKEA cabinets thermofoil?
IKEA kitchen cabinet styles at a variety of price points, including GRIMSLÖV, RINGHULT, VOXTORP, and YTTERBYN, are made of thermofoil adhered to a base of MDF or particleboard. Thermofoil coating results in a smooth, even, great-looking finish that is simple to wipe clean.
Is thermofoil cabinet good?
Thermofoil cabinets are a superb option, and they can be used in any room of your home. Because thermofoil is a cost-effective cabinet material, your kitchen can be revamped more easily by simply choosing a new color, finish, or style of door to be swapped out with the old.
How can I tell if my cabinets are thermofoil?
With Thermofoil, you will always be able only to cover 5 of the 6 sides of an object. It generally means that the backside of the cabinet doors will be some neutral colored laminate that will not match the rest of the door.
How do you tell if I have thermofoil cabinets?
Thermofoil vs. Melamine and Laminate cabinets are often confused with Thermofoil, but they are not the same material. Melamine and Laminate are made of melamine plastic, Thermafoil is vinyl. You can tell them apart by the following: Thermafoil is thicker, softer feeling, peels off more easily, and is more flexible.
Can thermofoil cabinets be resurfaced?
When You’re Upgrading the Door Material If your existing cabinet doors are made from low-quality materials, refacing gives you the chance to upgrade. Instead of sticking with cheap, thermofoil cabinetry, you can reface cabinets and make the switch to wood veneer, or even solid hardwood doors.
How do you clean thermofoil cabinets?
Care and Cleaning for Thermofoil (Matte and Wood Grain) To clean stains, always use a damp cloth or nonabrasive sponge and wipe with a 50/50 mix of water and Simple Green®, scrubbing lightly for 10 to 20 strokes. This should remove most stains.
Are vinyl wrapped cabinets good?
Types of Cabinet Wraps Vinyl is capable of mimicking the look of different materials. While it might not feel like it, the aesthetic quality can capture exactly what you’re looking for. From these general categories, there are a variety of colours and shades you could choose from.
Are Formica cabinets good?
Laminate cabinets are more affordable than traditional wood cabinetry, and they are very easy to maintain. They are also less vulnerable to heavy wear and tear, making them an ideal option for young families. Today’s laminate, however, can stand side by side with wood and prove to be the better choice for your project.
What is thermofoil refacing?
Thermofoil cabinets can be a great choice for your kitchen remodel or refacing project. These cabinets arrive fully finished, and they are more budget-friendly than solid wood. Thermofoil is a vinyl laminate that is heated and pressurized onto a medium-density fiberboard, or MDF, core.
Is thermofoil a vinyl?
Vinyl. Despite it’s rather deceptive looking name, thermofoil is not made of foil or any other metal for that matter. It is actually a layer of vinyl that is applied to cabinet doors that are made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
What happens to rigid thermofoil over time?
Unlike common kitchen cabinet doors coated with paint, thermofoil doors are coated with layers of colored vinyl that’s why its color doesn’t fade even with decades of usage.
