Are you planning to build your custom closet? Or perhaps you want to hire a professional company to install a new walk-in shower. Either way, you might want to learn more about the materials used for closets to avoid those that might not be suitable for your needs. Our guide on custom closet materials should provide you with a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
The Custom Closet Industry Prefers Two Main Materials
Custom closet manufacturers and DIY enthusiasts often lean towards two popular choices: wood or melamine. While wood needs no introduction, you might be wondering what type of material melamine is.
What is Melamine?
Melamine is a versatile resin used in the lamination process to create durable materials for various applications, including furniture and cabinetry. When melamine is applied to a substrate such as a particle board or MDF (medium-density fiberboard), it is called a melamine panel.
However, when this melamine-coated panel is subjected to heat and high pressure to enhance its durability and bond, the result is Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL). TFL is known for its robustness, resistance to scratches and moisture, and availability in various textures and colors, making it a popular choice for both commercial and residential uses. While both materials utilize melamine resin, TFL specifically denotes the product resulting from the thermal fusion process that creates a particularly strong and uniform bond.
What are the Benefits of Melamine?
For starters, melamine looks very good. The material is suitable for use in simplistic, minimalist, and stylish decor. Melamine is also versatile in terms of appearance. It can be produced to resemble different types of wood or designed to showcase attractive shades of color and patterns.
Melamine is also significantly more durable than most materials commonly used to create custom closets. Due to its hard surface, it does not scratch easily, and you can quickly wipe it clean. Other benefits include affordability, stain resistance, durability, lightweight panels, and water resistance.
What are the Drawbacks of Using Melamine?
While melamine is the primary material of choice for many closet makers, both professional and DIY, there are some drawbacks that you need to be aware of.
Melamine is strong and scratch-resistant, but heavy impact can damage the material. If such an event cracks the surface, it can compromise its water-resistance qualities, allowing moisture to seep through the cracks. The good news is that careful melamine treatment can ensure your closet looks new for many years.
What Types of Wood Are Used For Custom Closets?
The most common types of wood selected for a custom closet project are plywood or medium-density fiberboards (MDF). MDF is denser than plywood and is manufactured by breaking down softwood or hardwood residuals and blending them with wax and a resin binder.
Solid wood custom closets are rare, but some high-end furniture companies make them, offering stunning creations using natural wood such as walnut, maple, cedar, oak, and cherry.
What are the Benefits of Using Wood?
Wood is strong and beautiful. This is often a better option than melamine for homeowners who love a natural look, especially those who deeply connect with the calming feel of wooden furniture and features.
While natural wood provides a sense of happiness and old-school charm, MDF offers benefits such as durability, versatility, various looks and styles, warp resistance, and the ability to handle heavy loads.
What are the Drawbacks of Wood?
Woods can scratch and dent more easily than materials like melamine. Wood also tends to swell when exposed to moisture, which can put the closet at risk of damage and mold growth, and also tends to be heavier and more expensive than melamine. Wood also cannot offer the wide range of colors and patterns melamine can.
What Other Materials Are Used for Custom Closets?
Some closets also contain elements such as wire or glass, but since neither provides the shelf strength for heavy items, they are not as popular as wood or melamine custom closets.
Artisan Custom Closets
Here at Artisan Custom Closets, we are passionate about turning your next project into a masterpiece. Whether you need a minimalist pantry or several custom wood closet systems, no task is too big or small.
If you want more information about the materials used in custom closets, our team is always ready to help. Contact us today with your queries to learn more about our products and services!