What typically defines cabinet grade materials?

Cabinet grade materials are primarily characterized by their surface quality and dimensional stability. In the context of cabinetry, surface quality refers to the appearance and smoothness of the material, which plays a crucial role in achieving a high-end finish. This is essential for cabinets, which are often stained or painted, and the finish needs to adhere properly without imperfections.

Dimensional stability is equally important, as it ensures that the material does not warp, twist, or shrink over time, maintaining the integrity and alignment of the cabinets even in changing humidity and temperature conditions. These properties help to ensure the longevity and durability of cabinetry, which is critical for both functional and aesthetic purposes.

In contrast, while other aspects like color, texture, weight, flexibility, cost, and availability may be considerations in selecting materials, they do not fundamentally define the quality and usability of materials specifically for cabinetmaking. Surface quality and dimensional stability are the key factors that make materials suitable for creating high-quality cabinets.