The Cabinet Box

You might be surprised to learn that solid wood rarely forms the cabinet box. But yes this is true that it’s more often used in face frames and doors than in the larger side panels. That’s because it can warp—a special concern in the kitchen where the moisture level changes frequently. But the cabinet box, using multiple layers of plywood (real thin pieces of wood) in a variety of sizes and directions can reduce the warp factor. The materials of the cabinet box (depending on whether you have custom, semi custom, or stock cabinets) typically contain wood chips, other wood by-products, and synthetic additives to make them especially strong and warp resistant. Your options include:

Here is a detailed diagram of one of our semi-custom cabinet lines- Shiloh Cabinetry.

1. Solid wood hanging rail for secure fastening to wall
2. Solid wood corner blocks in base cabinets add strength and stability
3. 3/4" plywood drawer box with undermount guide (solid wood dovetail drawer available)
4. Solid wood door, no composite material (except thermafoil product)
5. Maple laminate over plywood for a durable interior, or a real wood veneer interior is available
6. 3/4" plywood adjustable shelving with metal shelf clips
7. 1 1/2" solid wood frames
8. 3/8" plywood bottoms are strong and resist water damage
9. Smooth, catalyzed conversion varnish topcoat that is resistant to most household chemicals
10. 1/2" plywood sides with optional applied doors or raised panel ends for a great look and outstanding quality

It is quite common that the door and the cabinet box will be constructed of different materials. A cabinet door might be solid maple and the cabinet box will be plywood covered with a maple veneer.

So when you are out there shopping for your cabinets, make sure you do your homework and understand the differences between the different materials. Usually a certain material (plywood) correlates with a certain quality of cabinetry, which will have a typical delivery time frame of four to six weeks.