Kitchen Cabinet Refacing: Pros and Cons of Using Rigid Thermofoil Doors

Are you planning to get your kitchen cabinets refaced to give your kitchen a fresh look? You’ve probably looked up the internet already for kitchen cabinet door choices already and saw thermofoil doors on the list. If you want to know what makes thermofoil doors a popular choice (along with its downsides), read on!

PROS

“Shape-shifting” ability

Because thermofoils are made of flexible, flat layers of vinyl, it can be molded into any door shape—whether it has raised/recessed panels or embossed designs.

Consistent color

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.

Water, chemical, and stain-resistant

Thermofoil doors are basically plastic-coated doors. Plastics are non-porous, making it resistant to liquid substances. Even colored fluids like juices, wine, and soy sauce can’t stain this one!

Easy to clean

As mentioned above, thermofoil doors aren’t absorbent that’s why it doesn’t accumulate much dirt on its surface. However, you still need to clean it from time to time. You can simply wipe it with a dry, clean, microfiber cloth when it gets dusty, and use a damp one if it gets greasy. But if you think that a damp cloth isn’t enough, you can use a mixture of soap and water since thermofoil doors are chemical-resistant.

CONS

Sensitive to heat

Too much heat exposure can make thermofoil doors peel because it can melt the glue attaching the vinyl to the Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF). Heat exposure also makes it prone to blistering that’s why thermofoil kitchen cabinets should be installed at least five to six inches far from stoves and other heat sources.

Scratches, dents, and chipping

When the edges of thermofoil kitchen cabinet doors are already peeling because of exposure to heat, it is prone to scratches, dents, and chips when it is opened forcefully, shut loudly, and scratched by pets (for lower kitchen cabinets). In short, thermofoil doors should be handled with extra care.

With these qualities, there’s no need to wonder why thermofoil doors are one of the most prevalent kitchen door choices. If you think that rigid thermofoil doors are best for your kitchen, you can now have your kitchen refaced! Call us today at (800) 581-0694! However, if you’re still undecided, feel free to visit our showroom at 4375 E. La Palma Ave in Anaheim, CA for actual material and design choices.

A SIMPLE PROCESS TO GET YOUR DREAM KITCHEN