Cabinets made from thermofoil are generally made with vinyl material applied over a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) core. Thin layers of PVC or vinyl can be pressed against MDF to create rigid thermofoil (RTF). By applying the coating to the front of the doors and drawers, this process makes the cabinets more cost-effective. There are a wide variety of styles, colors, and finishes available for thermofoil cabinets. Often, thermofoil is confused with laminate, but laminate is adhered to MDF surfaces with glue, while thermofoil uses a vacuum press.The surface of the thermofoil is critical. MDF is a durable material that is used by most thermofoil cabinet manufacturers. It is also possible to use plywood or particleboard. Stronger, heavier, and more durable than MDF, plywood is the next preferred choice after MDF. This material is better suited to resisting shearing and bending.
Surfaces made from thermofoil are seamless from top to bottom. Since it is made of plastic, there are no pores on it. There is no effect of water on thermofoil. Thermofoil is resistant to most stains.
Since thermofoil cabinets are made of vinyl, they have smooth, consistent colors. As opposed to painted wood doors, these cabinet faces will retain their color for years to come.
A thermofoil cabinet's easy maintenance and care may attract homeowners. Laminate surfaces are stain-resistant and easy to clean. All-purpose cleaners can be used to remove stubborn residue, such as grease. Unlike wood cabinets, thermofoil cabinets require no protective coating. Unless the laminate skin is damaged, they won't chip or crack in high humidity.
The wide range ofcolors and patterns available with thermofoil cabinets is one of their greatest advantages. You can choose between a basic flat cabinet or one with an embellished design. This cabinet has a matte or glossy finish, because the vinyl surface can be molded into a variety of patterns and shapes. From basic white to colorful shades such as red.
Heat resistance of thermofoil cabinets is poor, even though many homeowners install them in their kitchens. Laminates may pull away from veneer cores if they are placed too close to a heat source, such as an oven. The problem can be solved by installing heat shields, which are essentially metal strips, between the cabinets and the heat source.
As a consequence of their superior moisture resistance, thermofoil cabinets are commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms. Despite being more moisture-resistant than other materials, such as MDF or wood, they are not completely waterproof. A damaged laminate skin may allow water to seep into the cabinet's core, causing irreversible damage.
Compared to traditional wood cabinets, thermofoil cabinets are heavier since they are made with laminate on top of MDF or engineered wood. As a result, they are more difficult to install. A professional installation can add to the cost of Thermofoil cabinets, which is comparable in price to other cabinet materials. Unlike wood cabinets, thermofoil cabinets cannot be repaired once their vinyl layer is damaged.