When customizing furniture—whether it’s a dream kitchen cabinet, a built-in wardrobe, or a sleek TV console—most homeowners obsess over the outer color and finish.
But the most important decision is actually invisible: the core material inside.
The core determines if your cabinet will swell when a pipe leaks, sag under the weight of your books, or slowly release harmful chemicals into your home's air.
At Fatt Interior, we offer various materials including Melamine Board, MDF, Solid Wood, and Aluminium. However, our top recommendation for the majority of Malaysian homes is E0 Grade Plywood.
Here is the definitive guide to understanding why, and where other materials might fit in.
1. The Fatt Interior Standard: Plywood (E0 Grade)
What is it?
Plywood is engineered by gluing thin layers of wood veneers together, with the grain of each layer running at alternating right angles. This cross-graining technique creates a board that is incredibly tough and stable.
Why We Prefer It (The Pros)
- 💧 Superior Moisture Resistance: In Malaysia's humid climate, this is crucial. Quality plywood handles occasional splashes in a wet kitchen far better than chipboard or MDF. It does not swell easily.
- 💪 High Strength (Screw Holding): It bites into screws tightly. Your cabinet doors won't become loose and hinges won't wobble after a few years of heavy use.
- 🍃 Healthier Home (E0/SE0): At Fatt Interior, we advocate for E0 or SE0 Grade Plywood. This refers to the Formaldehyde Emission Level. E0 means the material releases almost zero harmful volatile chemicals, making it safe for babies, the elderly, and allergy sufferers.
The Trade-off (Cons)
- Cost: It is more expensive than Melamine/Chipboard and MDF, but the longevity and health benefits are worth the investment.
2. Melamine Board (Chipboard)
What is it?
Also known as Particle Board. It is made by compressing wood chips, sawmill shavings, and resin binder. It usually comes pre-laminated with a white or wood-grain colored surface.
Why Some Choose It (Pros)
- Budget-Friendly: This is generally the most affordable option on the market.
- Variety: It comes in many pre-finished colors and textures ready to use.
The Trade-off (Cons)
- Water Sensitivity (The Biscuit Effect): This is its biggest weakness. If water penetrates the sealed edges (common near sinks), the internal chips will swell and crumble like a wet biscuit. Not recommended for "Wet Kitchens."
- Durability: Screws can loosen over time if doors are opened frequently, as the material inside is just compressed chips.
3. Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF)
What is it?
MDF is made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into fine wood fibers and combining them with wax and a resin binder under high temperature and pressure. It is denser and smoother than plywood.
Why Some Choose It (Pros)
- Perfectly Smooth Surface: It has no grain or knots, making it the ideal base for Spray Paint or high-gloss lacquered finishes.
- Easy to Shape: It can be routed and cut perfectly. If you want decorative doors with routed designs (like shaker style or wainscoting), MDF is often used.
The Trade-off (Cons)
- Water Sponge: It soaks up water rapidly. Once wet, it expands significantly and cannot be repaired.
- Heavy: It is very dense and heavy, which can put extra strain on cabinet hinges over time.
4. Solid Wood (Nyatoh, Teak, etc.)
What is it?
Natural lumber cut directly from trees. In Malaysia, Nyatoh is a popular choice for painted solid wood doors.
Why Some Choose It (Pros)
- Aesthetics & Prestige: Nothing beats the natural beauty, grain, and warm feel of real wood.
- Repairable: Dents and scratches can be sanded down and refinished over the years.
The Trade-off (Cons)
- Maintenance: Real wood is "alive." It expands and contracts with heat and humidity, which can lead to warping or hairline cracks on painted surfaces.
- Termites: Unless heavily treated, it is a food source for termites.
- Price: Usually the most expensive option.
5. Aluminium
What is it?
Cabinet carcasses and doors made entirely from metal.
Why Some Choose It (Pros)
- Indestructible: It is 100% waterproof, completely termite-proof, and fire-resistant. Great for extremely heavy-duty wet kitchens.
The Trade-off (Cons)
- Aesthetics & Feel: It can feel cold, industrial, and "noisy" (clanging sounds) when putting items away. It lacks the warmth of wood-based products.
- Scratching: The surface finish can scratch, and dents are difficult to fix.
Summary Comparison Table
| Material | Water Resistance | Strength | Formaldehyde Safety | Cost | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood (E0) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $$$ | All Areas (Highly Recommended) |
| Melamine Board | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | $ | Dry Kitchen / Wardrobe (Budget) |
| MDF | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | $$ | Spray Paint Doors / Dry Areas |
| Solid Wood | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $$$$$ | Classic Style Doors / Luxury |
| Aluminium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $$$$ | Heavy Duty Wet Kitchen |
Conclusion
While every material has its place, Fatt Interior recommends E0 Plywood as the gold standard for the majority of custom cabinetry work in Malaysia. It strikes the perfect balance between durability, water resistance, and ensuring the health safety of your family.
Planning a full home makeover? Don't miss the big picture. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Custom Cabinets & Renovation in Seremban, KL & Melaka for a step-by-step walkthrough of the entire process.
Don't gamble with the core of your home. Contact us today to visit our showroom and feel the difference between these materials yourself.