Get matched with top cabinet makers in Decorah, IA

Q: What is better for shelving: MDF or plywood?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re looking for shelving that will stand up to years of heavy stacking, plywood is the clear winner against MDF (a.k.a. medium-density fiberboard). Plywood is a sturdy material that resists sagging, warping, and splitting, making it the perfect fit for shelving in a variety of spaces. For sheds, garages, and other environments that aren&rsquo;t climate-controlled, wood or plywood is a must, as moisture and humidity will cause MDF to warp over time. While MDF is the more wallet-friendly material, it should only be used for storing lighter items in a climate-controlled space. </p></div>

Q: What is the best thickness for shelving?

• <div><p>For most purposes, you should go with wood that&rsquo;s at least 3/4-inch thick for DIY closet shelves. This is the standard thickness for solid wood or MDF shelving and should be able to hold a good amount of weight (around 80 pounds for MDF and 130 pounds for plywood). If you&rsquo;re storing tools, camera equipment, or other heavier items, you can go up to 1 1/4-inch thickness for maximum strength and durability.</p></div>

Q: What type of cabinet lasts the longest?

• <div><p>Custom cabinets made from solid wood tend to last the longest, remaining in good condition for 20 to 50 years. Cabinet lifespan depends on upkeep, the amount of heat and moisture inside the home, and general wear and tear. Popular hardwood options include oak, cherry, maple, walnut, and hickory. Its longevity means that solid wood is more expensive than alternative materials like furniture board, laminate, and plywood. The average cost of solid wood cabinets ranges from <b>$100 to $1,200 per linear foot</b>. </p></div>

Q: What is the most durable wood for kitchen cabinets?

• <div><p>The Janka Hardness Scale rates wood species according to their hardness levels or density. On the scale, hickory ranks as the most dense hardwood that is common for use in making cabinets. While there are woods that are harder, they're uncommon in cabinetry. Maple, oak, and walnut also rank relatively high on the scale and are excellent for use in cabinetry. </p></div>

Q: What is the least expensive material for shelves?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re on a tight budget, the least expensive material you can buy for DIY closet shelves is chipboard, a.k.a. particle board. This inexpensive material is made from a pulp of sawdust, resin, and glue that&rsquo;s pressed together under high temperature and pressure. As you can imagine, it&rsquo;s not very sturdy and might buckle under your blue jean collection, so you should only use it if you&rsquo;re storing very light items. </p></div>

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Last update on November 17, 2025

Reviewed in April 2024
They double check several times to make sure it was exactly what I wanted/needed
Big Mike's Siding and General Construction
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Reviewed in May 2023
EXCELLENT services, works with any issues i have. Dependable, always here when states they will be and does beyond necessary work to make my yard look its best!! I could not be happier!!!
NH Lawn Care, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2014
I locked myself out of the house while my husband was out of town and called Mike to see if he could help. Mike was out of town helping someone else and wouldn't be able to make it right away. He was able to give me the number of another locksmith. He said to call them and if they couldn't get...
Mike's Lock & Key
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Reviewed in February 2014
They forgot to put the trap in the shower drain. It took about a year to make this discovery since shower was only used for occasional guests. I called Casper Plumbing and asked them to come to take a look and examine the shower. They claimed that there was no way they could have forgotten to...
Casper Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in September 2013
Todd went above and beyond from the first minute I spoke to him. He was thorough in diagnosing the problem and went to extensive lengths to find the information he needed to make the repair on an uncommon planetary system in the transfer case. I was very impressed by the strength of his...
Bowman Trannsmission
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Reviewed in February 2013
Marcia sat down with us and sketched out plans for our remodel with ideas of how to stay in our current footprint and not add on to our existing house. She sketched several different ideas until she had for us exactly what we wanted. Marcia gave some great ideas that we are incorporating with...
Creating Spaces
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Reviewed in December 2012
Tech arrived on time. Was kind and considerate. He diagnosed the problem and informed us about the issue. Said he would have to go look for the part. Came back soon with the correct part, replaced it and checked to make sure the furnace was up and running.
Vick's Heating Plumbing & Ventilating Inc
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Reviewed in May 2012
Mary shampooed, cut and styled my hair for a very reasonable price and with excellent results. She is friendly and willing to make an appointment for the early evening. She was able to advise me about the style that would suit my face shape, and she was careful not to cut too short without...
Mary & CO
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Reviewed in September 2008
Commander Carpet Care was able to come to my house promptly and give me an accurate estimate that matched my bill (no hidden costs like the last guy)! Gave me some options up front along with tips to make my carpet last longer and look better which I really appreciated. They worked with my...
Commander Carpet Care
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Get matched with top cabinet makers in Decorah, IA

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New Hampton Cabinetry

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myhometutions

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Andy's Cabinets & Construction

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1st Construction

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Wooden Ways

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