WOOD SPECIES
Wood species are scientifically defined based on the inherent characteristics of a tree. Woodworkers commonly use these names as a way to reference the various properties of each species. While there are a vast number of species in the world, only a select few are suitable for cabinet construction. It’s important to note that the internal frame and box of most cabinets are made from manufactured wood, which doesn’t adhere to the properties of any one species due to the bonding agent that alters its composition.
The most commonly used wood species for cabinets include Douglas Fir, Mahogany, Western Hemlock, Eastern Knotty Pine, Poplar, Maple, Red Oak, Cherry, and Knotty Alder. While these aren’t the only woods available, they are some of the most frequently used in today’s cabinet styles. Each wood species has unique properties, but it’s typically their aesthetic characteristics that play the biggest role in determining which one to choose for kitchen cabinets.