PVC Kitchen Cabinets: Exploring the Pros and Cons

Modern PVC kitchen cabinets are very popular because of their affordability, easy availability and durability. But what exactly is PVC? It’s a widely produced polymer known as polyvinyl chloride and has been traditionally used in construction, healthcare, automobiles and other sectors. But it’s not just pipes that are made of PVC. We have noticed a trend that is catching on in interior design – and it has taken the shape of PVC kitchen cabinets.

A PVC kitchen cabinet design is not only a pocket-friendly option for furnishing the kitchen; it’s also super easy to clean and maintain. If you are sceptical about this material, we have a detailed guide highlighting important features of the material and all that it entails.

Types of PVC kitchen cabinets: Which is your pick?

When it comes to PVC kitchen cabinets, the market currently has two varieties – hollow boards and foam. The hollow board is lightweight and economical, and as its name suggests, is hollow. PVC foam boards, on the other hand, can be thicker, thus making them sturdier than hollow boards.

However, the use of PVC foil is noted mainly in creating membrane-like finishes for shutters. At Livspace, that’s what we do to give your shutter finishes an edge over the rest.

What are the characteristics of a PVC kitchen cabinet design?

We suggest foam boards as a preferable option when it comes to choosing PVC kitchen cupboard designs. That’s because they can make for sturdy cabinets, as hollow boards are typically not thermal or fire-resistant. Foam boards, on the other hand, are usually insulated against heat and are fairly fire-resistant. It is also considered to be a non-toxic, anti-chemical and corrosion-resistant material. This creates hygienic conditions in handling your food.

What is the PVC installation process?

One of the biggest advantages of PVC is its ease of installation. It’s available as ready-to-fit boards that usually do not require any further finishing. PVC is available in an array of colours and does not need laminates or add-ons to make it look beautiful. Since the material is lightweight, it is also easy to work on. However, PVC foam boards require the right expertise for installation, as improper finishing can result in irreversible damage to the cabinet.

Also Read: A Guide to Escaping The Worst Kitchen Nightmare With 7 Kitchen Cabinet Materials

How durable are PVC cabinets in kitchens?

When it comes to the sturdiness of PVC kitchen designs, choose the foam board as it can hold more weight compared to the hollow PVC variant. However, when it comes to its usage, we recommend using it in rented homes. You might want to consider modern PVC kitchen cabinets as a short-term investment, as the cabinets may sag over time. In worst conditions, the damage can be irreversible, if not cared for or maintained well.

Also Read: What Is PVC Laminate and Where to Use It?

PVC kitchen cabinet material vs other materials

1. PVC vs wood

PVC kitchen cabinets are chosen for their affordability, durability and easy availability over materials like wood. However, that’s not all. Modern PVC kitchen cabinets are preferred as they are more lightweight.

Wood, if not maintained well, tends to invite termites. So, in a tropical country like India, it’s better to opt for plastic cabinets that are considered termite-proof.

PVC material is also able to withstand a lot of heat damage and certain levels of surface damage. The same cannot be said for wood.

2. PVC vs aluminium

Choosing PVC cabinets or cupboards for a kitchen might be better for you in the long run as it’s waterproof and termite-proof. But the same can be said for good aluminium kitchen cabinets. Then, where lies the difference?

As you know, PVC kitchen cabinet design can get discoloured over the years, if not maintained well. With aluminium, the chances of that happening are low. However, good aluminium cabinets can sustain dents, scratches and uneven bumps if not maintained well.

3. PVC vs metal

Both PVC and metal-made modular kitchens remain unaffected by heat and humidity. However, metal is available in a limited number of colour options whereas with PVC, you can be spoilt for choice!

Moreover, plastic PVC cabinets do not rust, unlike metal. In fact, metal made cabinets might require frequent polishing to avert rust. Metal also tends to be noisier than PVC-made modular kitchens.

PVC membrane finish vs other finishes

1. PVC vs acrylic

Acrylic finish is quite a popular finish for modern modular kitchens for its highly glossy and reflective surface. However, choosing PVC for a membrane-like finish for kitchen cabinets, doors and wardrobes can do you good. That’s because PVC is easier to maintain, affordable, durable and overall a good bargain.

So, you get what you pay for! According to expert advice from our designers, the gloss might not be as aesthetic as an acrylic finish, but it’s still great and gives your modular kitchens an edge.

Also Read: An Ultimate List of Materials for Your Kitchen & What to Use

3. PVC vs laminate

It’s a close call when it comes to choosing between PVC and laminate as finishes for your kitchen cabinets. Both are affordable, durable and easily available.

In fact, you can incorporate PVC on your shutter designs or profiles, to stand out and break the monotony of plain shutters. If you’re looking for custom decorative layers over your plywood, try PVC laminate material for kitchen cupboard designs!

Pros and cons of PVC kitchen cabinets

Pros of PVC Kitchen Cabinets	Cons of PVC Kitchen Cabinets
Easy and quick to install	Prone to damage, if not maintained
Economic option	Prone to deformation, if not installed well
Moisture-resistant	Not typically fire-resistant
Termite-proof	Prone to attracting insects, if not cleaned well
Available in many colours and do not require separate finishes	Might get discoloured over the years, if not maintained
Foam boards can hold a lot of weight

What’s the price of PVC kitchen cabinets?

Compared to other commonly used modular kitchen cabinet materials, PVC kitchen cupboard designs are an economical option. Here’s a breakdown of shutter finishes in order of popularity:

1. Laminates
2. Polymers
3. PVC Membrane
4. Acrylic
5. PU
6. Veneer/ Lacquer Glass

In short, PVC kitchens are gradually penetrating Indian households as they can be more economical and sturdier. Whether you should choose PVC material for kitchen cabinets depends on your usage and budget. We hope our guide helps you in making an informed choice. For more, read our ultimate guide to kitchen materials.  

Best PVC kitchen cabinet designs for all 6 kitchen layouts

6 types of kitchen layouts are popular. A straight kitchen is typically a one-wall kitchen perfect for compact Indian families. An L-shaped kitchen is the most popular layout because it has a place for everything.

A U-shaped kitchen is best for creating an ideal golden triangle, whereas a parallel kitchen is great for storage. Both the island and peninsula kitchen have an extra functional countertop. The peninsula kitchen, however, has a countertop that is attached to a wall. Now that you know about all the 6 kitchen layouts, here’s a look at PVC kitchen cabinet designs for each layout.

1. Straight kitchen layout with PVC cabinets

This green one-wall kitchen showcases an array of PVC kitchen cabinets and PVC kitchen cupboard designs in a matte finish. Bold and beautiful, isn’t it?

2. L-shaped kitchen design with PVC cabinets

This dark grey L-shaped kitchen has a PVC membrane finish in medium gloss. Also, it’s perfect for stirring a sensible yet sophisticated picture.

3. U-shaped kitchen with PVC modular kitchen cabinets

This white U-shaped kitchen has modern PVC kitchen cabinets that you are bound to love. Also, the PVC kitchen cupboard design furnishes a rich and inspiring look.

4. Parallel kitchen with PVC kitchen cabinet design

As you can see, this olive green double-toned parallel kitchen uses a PVC kitchen cupboard and PVC cabinets. These pieces are known for their affordability, durability and ease of maintenance.

5. Island-shaped kitchen with PVC cabinets

While it’s believed that modules with acrylic finish have a high gloss and a highly sophisticated look, PVC kitchen cabinet designs like the one above can also provide that glossy look. PVC cabinets are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, from matte to glossy.

6. Peninsula kitchen with PVC cabinets

This white peninsula kitchen uses the right mix of modern PVC kitchen cabinets and cupboards to create a storage-efficient kitchen that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Want some different kitchen styles for your home?

Kitchen styles are not restricted to just their design layouts. You are invariably using one of the styles in your home, so let us help you make an informed decision with these different style options:

Indian kitchen: A traditional Indian kitchen has cabinets with grooves and handles, lofts, wall cabinets, and base cabinets, maintaining a legacy model for the first modular kitchens in India.

Country-style kitchen: This design ensures the cook has a panoramic view of the home, complemented by rustic elements like wooden rafters, stone or brick walls, and warm tones for a cosy ambience.

Industrial kitchens: This kitchen style features black metal lights, distressed finishes, and cement screed walls (takes you right back to the Industrial Revolution).

Bohemian kitchens: Plants, colours and layers – this is what a Bohemian kitchen will have along with a patterned floor, backsplash tiles, vivid jars, crockery, and a kitchen garden.

Scandinavian kitchens: Whites or neutrals with seamless finishes (no visible handles and smooth surfaces like acrylic) are preferred in Scandinavian interior design for kitchens. 

Mid-century modern kitchen style: Ideal for small kitchens, this style is marked by hanging pots and pans while merging with the dining area. This style also favours unique colours like mauve or teal, alongside wooden and metallic tones.

How can Livspace help you? 

• Our kitchens come with a flat 10-year warranty*
• All our modular products are precision-engineered in factories
• Plus, they are powered with superior technology such as AntiBubble, AquaBloc and DuraBuild that prevent air bubbles and moisture from damaging the product

If you want a beautiful kitchen for your home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today.

*For full scope of warranty, please visit livspace.com/in/service.