1. Alder wood cabinets are low quality
Alder is a common, kiln-dried hardwood for kitchen cabinets. It is a softer hardwood than maple or oak, but it is considered a medium-density hardwood, often called a semi-hardwood. This is why some people would have quality concerns with alder wood cabinets. It will dent more easily than some other hardwoods, but it is still a good choice for cabinetry.
Here’s why:
- A dent does not affect how a cabinet opens, closes, or holds weight, and it does not weaken hinges or drawer systems.
- For many homeowners, light wear blends into alder’s grain and reads as natural aging rather than damage.
- Proper sealing protects alder from moisture and stains, while quality finishes slow wear and reduce surface marking.
When alder is well finished, it holds up to normal kitchen use.
Overall cabinet quality comes from:
- Cabinet box construction
- Joinery
- Drawer systems
- Finish process
Alder wood cabinet doors are built with strong boxes and proper finishes that perform well in kitchens.
2. Alder wood cabinets only work in rustic kitchens
Alder is often shown in rustic spaces, especially when door fronts are chosen with many visible knots and wood characteristics. That has shaped it’s perception. In reality, alder works well in many kitchen styles, including transitional and traditional design.
3 Alder Kitchen Design Ideas: How To Choose Clear VS Knotty Alder
In this blog post, we’ll explore alder kitchen design ideas and help you decide between clear and knotted alder for your kitchen.
3. Alder wood cabinets should never be painted
The truth is, alder wood cabinets can be painted, and many companies do this well. At Decor Cabinets we do not offer painted alder cabinets. When a painted finish is the goal, we offer better options that perform more consistently.
HDF and maple are stronger choices for painted cabinets, with HDF being our preferred option due to its smooth surface and excellent durability. Painted finishes stay more even and hold up better on these materials over time.
Alder shines best when it is stained, where its character and depth are meant to be seen.
So while alder can be painted and done well, we choose other options that work better for our customers.
