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Cabinet Box Materials: Melamine vs Plywood – Which Should You Choose ?

Written by: RTI CABINETS

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Time to read 2 min

When designing a new kitchen, one of the most important decisions is choosing your cabinet box material. At RTI Cabinets, we offer two main options — Melamine and Plywood. Each has unique advantages in durability, style, and cost. This guide will help you understand the differences so you can choose the best fit for your home.



Comparing Cabinet Box Materials: Melamine vs Plywood

Here’s a breakdown of each option so you can choose what’s best for your project.


Melamine Cabinet Boxes (Particle Board Core)

Melamine cabinet boxes are made from a particle board core with a melamine surface. At RTI Cabinets, we never use MDF cores for melamine — only particle board — which makes them strong, durable, and cost-effective.

They are available in multiple colors: White, Hardrock Maple, Dark Grey, and Black. Each option is finished with edge banding included standard, giving your cabinets a clean and polished look.

Key Benefits of Melamine Boxes:

  • Affordable and reliable for everyday kitchens.

  • Easy to clean and maintain.

  • Consistent finish across all interior surfaces.

  • Available in a variety of colors to match your style.

Birch Plywood Cabinet Boxes

Plywood cabinet boxes are our premium box material option, built with a 3/4" birch plywood core for maximum durability and strength. Unlike particle board, plywood layers are cross-bonded, giving your cabinets better moisture resistance and long-lasting stability.

All plywood boxes at RTI Cabinets come with edge banding standard, ensuring a seamless, finished look. The natural wood interior adds a touch of warmth and quality that stands out in any kitchen design.

Key Benefits of Plywood Boxes:

  • Superior durability compared to particle board.

  • Better resistance to moisture and warping.

  • Stronger construction for heavy kitchen use.

  • Premium interior finish with visible wood grain.




Cabinet Box Material Options at RTI Cabinets

At RTI Cabinets, we offer a variety of cabinet box materials and finishes to suit your style and budget. Choose from:

  • 5/8" Melamine in White, Hardrock Maple, Dark Grey, or Black – durable, easy to clean, and cost-effective.

  • 3/4" Birch Plywood – our premium option for maximum strength and moisture resistance.

Every cabinet box includes edge banding standard for a clean, polished finish. Whether you want the affordability of melamine or the durability of plywood, you can customize your kitchen with confidence.

Cabinet Box Materials – Melamine and Plywood Options by RTI Cabinets

"Melamine offers affordability, Plywood delivers durability — at RTI Cabinets, you get both options to match your needs and budget."

Which Projects Each Material Fits Best


Melamine Cabinets
Melamine is an excellent choice for modern, budget-friendly projects. Its clean, consistent finish and multiple color options make it popular for:

  • Rental properties or investment units

  • Condos and basement kitchens

  • Projects where cost-effectiveness and style are equally important

Plywood Cabinets
Plywood is the go-to option for premium projects and long-term durability. Its strength and moisture resistance make it perfect for:

  • Forever homes and high-end kitchens

  • Busy family kitchens that see heavy use

  • Areas with higher humidity or moisture exposure

Ready to Choose Your Cabinet Box Material?

Whether you prefer the affordability and clean look of melamine or the premium durability of plywood, RTI Cabinets makes it easy to design a kitchen that fits your style and budget.