Don’t Use These Materials in Your Modular Kitchen at Any Cost

1. Don’t Use These Materials in Your Modular Kitchen at Any Cost PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

2. WHY MATERIALS MATTER IN A MODULAR KITCHEN The choice of materials is the foundation of a safe, durable, and beautiful modular kitchen. Kitchen interiors face constant exposure to heat, moisture, steam, and frequent cleaning, which can quickly damage low-quality or inappropriate materials. Using the wrong materials can cause cabinets to swell, laminates to peel, countertops to stain, and hardware to corrode. Poor-quality materials also affect hygiene, allowing mold, bacteria, or odors to accumulate, and reduce the overall lifespan of your kitchen. On the other hand, high-quality, moisture-resistant, and certified materials ensure that your modular kitchen stays functional, easy to maintain, and visually appealing for years. PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

3. LOW-GRADE MDF AND PARTICLE BOARD CABINETS Low-grade MDF and particle board are commonly used in budget modular kitchens. However, these materials absorb moisture easily from kitchen steam, spills, and humid conditions. They swell, warp, and can develop mold or fungus over time. Many low-cost boards also use adhesives that emit formaldehyde, which can harm indoor air quality and affect health. Cabinets made with these materials lose structural strength quickly, making them unsuitable for long-term use. Always opt for marine-grade plywood or moisture-resistant boards that are certified for kitchen use. PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

4. CHEAP LAMINATES AND VENEERS • Peel or bubble when exposed to steam and heat from cooking. • Get stained easily by oil, water, or colored liquids. • Can crack or discolor over time with frequent cleaning. • Low-quality laminates may use adhesives that emit harmful fumes. • Unsafe for cabinet surfaces, shutters, or countertops. Safe alternative: High-pressure laminates (HPL) designed for kitchens. PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

5. POOR-QUALITY PU/UV COATINGS ON CABINET PU (Polyurethane) and UV-coated cabinets look glossy and modern but cheap versions are unsafe. They peel, scratch easily, and lose shine when exposed to kitchen heat, moisture, or cleaning chemicals. Some low-quality coatings may also emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, affecting indoor air quality. Properly applied, certified PU or UV coatings last longer, but avoid using low-cost or untested finishes for modular kitchens. PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

6. UNSEALED OR LOW-QUALITY MARBLE/STONE COUNTERTOPS • Porous stones like low-grade marble absorb water, oil, and stains easily. • Cracks and scratches appear quickly, reducing durability. • Cheap sealing products wear out fast, requiring constant maintenance. Better alternatives: • High-quality granite or engineered quartz with proper sealing. • Solid surface materials like Corian for stain and scratch resistance. PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

7. INFERIOR BACKSPLASH MATERIALS (WALL PANELS) Some modular kitchens use thin laminates or low-quality tiles as wall panels. These materials can peel, discolor, or retain moisture behind the panel. Over time, mold can develop between the wall and panel. Decorative panels made from cheap PVC or thermocol also warp under heat from stoves. It’s safer to use ceramic tiles, tempered glass, or high-quality HPL panels that are heat-resistant and easy to clean. PRESENTED BY CHAPTER OF DESIGN

8. CHEAP KITCHEN FLOORING MATERIALS Many modular kitchens use low-cost vinyl or laminate flooring. These materials may warp due to water splashes or high humidity. They scratch easily under regular kitchen activity and can emit toxic fumes if low-quality. They also reduce kitchen durability and safety. Opt for ceramic tiles, vitrified tiles, or high-quality waterproof laminates designed for kitchens.

9. LOW-COST PVC OR PLASTIC SHELVES • Bend under heavy load of utensils or food containers. • Not heat-resistant; deform near cooking zones. • Can discolor over time from oil, steam, or sunlight. • Emit unpleasant odor and fumes when new. Safe alternative: Metal shelves or plywood shelves laminated with HPL.

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