Oak Kitchen Cabinets: A Kitchen Staple

By Leslie A.M.
RefacingCabinet.com Columnist

Oak kitchen cabinets may seem too basic for your custom kitchen look, but don't rule them out just yet.

The Beauty of Oak Kitchen Cabinets

There are two main categories for the 295 different kinds of oak in the world: red and white. White oak is used for most furniture and cabinetry because of its uniform color. Red oak is identified by a reddish-orange tinge, usually around the knots.

There are about 50 kinds of oak in the United States. It has a strong grain pattern and can range in color from a very light white to an almost orange tint. Some people opt to stain oak cabinets, which is a very effective way to get the color of wood you want at an affordable price.

Oak Kitchen Cabinets for Long Life and Durability

Oak is chosen most often for stock kitchen cabinets because it is so economical. Just as important is its ability to withstand moisture and resist mold and mildew. Oak is strong and durable. Oak kitchen cabinets look great just with a coat of varnish, or stained a variety of colors.

Going With the Grain: Oak Kitchen Cabinets and the Cut

Oak is cut in two ways--plain or quarter-sawn. Most oak kitchen cabinets, especially stock kitchen cabinets, come from plain-sawn oak. It is most affordable and creates the least amount of waste of the log. The result is a pattern of rings in the grain.

With quarter-sawn oak, the log is first cut into quarters, then cut into boards. The grain presents in long, parallel lines, often with flecks of grey. This style is often preferred by craftsmen for specialty cabinetry and furniture.

Oak kitchen cabinets have the unique characteristics of being both reasonably priced, and a great long-term investment.

About The Author

Leslie A.M. Smith is a freelance writer and desperately needs a new kitchen. Until she can afford it, she has her eye on refacing her cabinets.