The Complete Guide to Wood Veneer
Wood veneer has been used for centuries to make beautiful, durable cabinetry and furniture. It is a thin slice of natural wood bonded to the core material, like MDF (medium-density fiberboard). The inside of all Fabuwood Allure and Value cabinet boxes and the center panel of the stained cabinet doors are made with wood veneer. Using veneer lets us showcase the natural beauty of wood without using large quantities of it.
This guide will explore everything about wood veneer, how it is made, its history, its benefits, and tips for choosing the best type for your cabinets.
What is Wood Veneer?
Typically less than 3 mm thick, a wood veneer is a very thin slice of natural wood that is placed over the top of MDF, particleboard, or plywood. Creating a veneer retains the grain, pattern, and unique character of the wood to create a stunning wood surface. It is as beautiful as it is durable without the price tag of solid wood.
What are the Types of Wood Veneer Cuts?
How wood veneer is cut from the wood affects the appearance of the grain and the overall look. Some common cuts include:
- Plain Saw- a varied grain pattern
- Quarter Saw- a more uniform grain pattern with added stability
- Rift Cut- has a linear, minimal grain pattern for sleek designs
- Rotary Cut- showcases a broad grain pattern from the wood being cut in a continuous sheet. This works well with large surfaces
What are the Benefits of Using Wood Veneer?
There are numerous benefits to using wood veneer- here are our top five:
- Affordability- it is more affordable than solid wood while still providing the look and feel of solid wood. This makes it ideal for those on a budget.
- Sustainability- wood veneer maximizes a single log by creating many layers, allowing for less waste. This helps conserve resources and supports sustainability.
- Durability- wood veneers are highly durable and less prone to warping or cracking due to moisture, making them ideal for kitchen cabinets.
- Variety- veneers come in many colors and grain patterns, giving homeowners design and style flexibility.
- Versatility- veneer is lightweight and easier to shape than solid wood and can be manipulated to fit differing shapes. This makes them perfect for custom designs and layouts.
Wood Veneer Vs. Solid Wood Cabinet Doors
Both wood veneer and solid wood are popular choices for kitchen cabinet doors. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which works best for you:
Appearance
Both offer the look and feel of natural wood grain. Veneers usually look just like solid wood but have slight variations in grain due to the thin strip of wood used for veneer.
Durability
Solid wood doors are highly durable but can expand or contract with temperature changes, which is natural. Veneer doors expand and contract, too, but only minimally. Due to their stable MDF or particleboard, they are less likely to warp, although they can peel or chip if damaged.
Finish Options
Solid wood is better for staining because its natural textures are more visible. Some in the industry believe veneer is best for paint because its stable base reduces the chance of paint cracking over time.
Cost
Solid wood is more expensive than veneer since it uses more wood. Veneer offers a similar appearance for a fraction of the cost.
History of Wood Veneer
Wood veneer has a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years:
Veneer was first used in ancient Egypt. Egyptians would apply thin layers of expensive wood onto cheaper materials. King Tutankhamun’s tomb featured veneered wood!
During the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, veneers were used for high-end furniture, especially intricate designs. During the Industrial Revolution, artisans popularized veneers to make expensive hardwoods more available. With the new machinery of the time, veneer production was easier than ever. Today, veneers are used across industries, from kitchen design to high-end furniture and instruments.
How to Choose the Best Veneer for Your Kitchen Cabinets?
Consider the type of wood used for the wood veneer. Different woods offer distinct patterns and colors. Here are the most popular choices:
- Oak- known for its warm color and prominent grain
- Maple- ideal for modern designs because of its uniform appearance
- Cherry- the rich, dark color adds sophistication to the kitchen
- Walnut- looks luxurious and upscale
Veneer Cut, Grade, and Appearance
The cut will affect the veneer's appearance, and the grade defines its quality. Grades are scaled from AA to C. You can choose whichever grade you wish, depending on your project and how you want the veneer to look. AA is the highest grade, highlighting the best quality with a near-perfect look. C is the lowest grade for a cost-effective option with many color options.
When looking for veneer, remember that there are stained vs. uncolored options and open vs. closed pores.
Stains Vs. Uncolored
Stains allow you to change the tone or color of the veneer. While they give you plenty of color options, they tend to dull the natural wood of the veneer.
An uncolored veneer is not dyed or enhanced, it simply showcases the wood’s natural beauty.
Open Vs. Closed Pore
Open pore veneers have a low-shine finish that shows off the natural wood grain. Closed pore veneers have small holes filled, making them shiny and glossy. Some types of wood need filling because they have large pores, like oak and mahogany, while others don’t need filling and are naturally smooth, like cherry and beech.
Tips for Maintaining and Repairing Wood Veneer Cabinets
Clean your cabinets regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap. Wipe up spills immediately and protect them from direct sunlight to avoid warping. You can use our touch-up kits for minor scratches, which have all the tools needed to repair the veneer. It’s important not to sand the veneer since the thin layer can easily be removed.
Wood veneer is an excellent choice for those who want natural wood cabinets without the high cost or maintenance. They are beautiful, durable, and sustainable, with many design options and colors that will fit any style, making them a top choice for modern kitchens. Order your sample doors to see and feel the quality of the wood veneer and how it will look in your kitchen.