Thermo foil doors are a low maintenance and affordable type that provides the look of painted doors without the inconvenience of having to continually paint them. They are made out of medium density fiber board (MDF) covered in a thin layer of heat-fused vinyl or laminate that creates a uniform and smooth surface with no color variations or streaks.

Thermo foil doors are amazingly priced compared to wood doors, and typically cost two thirds less, making them an appealing choice for individuals wishing to renovate their kitchens on a budget. Advances in modern design have allowed manufacturers to simulate real wood with their designs so it is difficult to tell the difference between a traditional wood door and thermo foil door.

The thin layer of vinyl or laminate creates a seamless, non-porous surface that doesn’t hold dirt, which makes these types of doors very easy to clean.

MDF tends to have a higher density than plywood, which means that thermo foil doors are heavier to lift and makes installation a challenge. Due to increased weight, special attention needs to be given to selecting the right screws & hinges so that there is no shifting or sagging of the doors over time.

Excessive heat can melt the glue that joined the vinyl or laminate to the MDF and cause it to peel off. Heat can also cause surface blistering and discoloration. Thermo foil doors are most likely to get damaged around cooking areas like the stove and microwave or around the dishwasher where heat from the drying cycle can eventually loosen the vinyl or laminate. A heat shield should be placed between the cabinet and the heat source.

PROS: Although there have been marvellous advances in thermoplastic’s ability to mimic the real thing, only wood doors will fully look and feel like wood doors. They have the advantage of being able to be sanded down and refinished, allowing for a ‘new look’ without having to actually buy new doors. They don’t peel up when exposed to heat, and scratches and gashes only reveal more wood underneath and can be patched with wood fillers. Wood can give a very elegant and rich look to a kitchen that only helps to increase its effect and value.

CONS: Wood can warp and crack under conditions of heat or changes in humidity. Wood usually costs more than thermoplastic doors. If you need to replace a wood door in the future, there may be a marked difference between the new door and the rest of the doors. Patina in the wood causes it to change colour as time passes and it is exposed to light. It may be difficult to match a stain because dye lots will differ, even when buying the same door and stain from the same supplier. Wood doors require more careful cleaning because the finish can be worn away with use and washing with corrosive or abrasive cleaners. Wood doors are made of slats of natural wood and the colours of those sections, themselves, may vary from one another making for an uneven distribution of tones and grains. This is considered a natural quality and charm of the wood. Wood doors usually take longer to order than thermoplastic doors.

PROS: Thermoplastic doors are usually the most economical solution to a new kitchen look. A finished kitchen with thermoplastic doors, although not completely like the look of natural wood, can still look convincing and beautiful. They are easy to maintain and are easy to clean of most stains, including grease. They do not require special cleaners. If a thermoplastic door is damaged, it is more likely to be able to find a replacement for it quickly, economically and closely resembling the old doors as there is little variance in dye lots. Although they cannot be refinished, they can be painted over with a melamine paint for a future change in look. Thermoplastic doors will not warp or crack with changes in humidity.

CONS: Thermoplastic doors are susceptible to extreme heat and should not have heat sources like toasters or self cleaning ovens directly near them. As the core of thermoplastic doors is made of MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) it can suffer from swelling from water damage if any of the MDF is exposed due to the edge glue coming loose. The thermoplastic layer is tough, but thin, and if any scratches cut through it, the MDF core will be exposed. This can be filled with a resin glue or a melamine paint, but it may be more noticeable than similar damage to a wood door. Not all glues or thermoplastic wrapping techniques are equal. Inferior companies may produce doors that will bubble or peel after time.