What To Expect When Ordering 1 Piece MDF Cabinet Doors
Ordering 1-piece MDF cabinet doors? Learn what to expect, what’s included, and how to avoid project delays with this complete guide.
Whether you’re a cabinet maker, contractor, or homeowner, you’re here because you need to order 1-piece MDF cabinet doors. But what can you expect? What do you need to know? Receiving MDF doors that don’t match your expectations can cause delays, extra costs, and frustration when a project stalls mid-install.
At Cutting Edge, we’ve been producing custom cabinet doors for over 20 years. We manufacture thousands of MDF doors every year, alongside solid wood and other options. Because we work closely with contractors and builders, we know where expectations often get missed and how to help you avoid surprises.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly what to expect when ordering 1-piece MDF cabinet doors. By the end, you’ll know the right questions to ask any supplier so you can order with confidence and avoid costly surprises.
1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors Are A Cost-Effective Painted Option
1-piece MDF cabinet doors are made from a single sheet of medium-density fibreboard (MDF). Unlike wood doors, which have rails, stiles, and panels, these doors are routed into shape using a CNC. This allows for smooth edges and consistent profiles with no joints.
They’re especially popular for painted kitchens because the smooth MDF surface takes paint evenly and doesn’t have wood grain showing through. MDF doors are also faster to finish when prepped correctly.
In short, if you’re looking for a durable, smooth, and affordable option for painted cabinet doors, 1-piece MDF is one of the most cost-effective choices.
What To Expect When Ordering 1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors
When you place an order for 1-piece MDF cabinet doors, it’s important to understand what’s included and what’s not. Different suppliers handle things differently, and knowing the details upfront can save you from missed deadlines.
1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors Arrive Ready To Paint
Most suppliers sand MDF cabinet doors before shipping, so they’re ready for paint when they arrive. However, not all do. Some suppliers deliver doors that still need work.
At Cutting Edge, we ensure our MDF doors are prepped and sanded, so all you need to do is prime and paint. This makes it easier for you to stay on schedule.
1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors May Not Come Painted
Most MDF cabinet doors don’t come painted unless you specifically request it. Leaving the finishing up to you or your painter allows for more flexibility. You can match your exact colour choice, sheen, and paint system to the rest of your project.
If you want painted MDF doors, confirm whether your supplier offers that service.
1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors Cost Less Than Standard Cabinet Doors
Because MDF is manufactured from wood fibres and resin, it’s less expensive than solid wood. For painted kitchens, MDF is often the smartest cost-saving choice without compromising on style.
1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors Have Unique Limitations
While MDF doors are durable and stable, they do have limitations you should be aware of:
- Size Restrictions: Doors taller than 43” or wider than 30” are not covered under warranty for warp or twist. MDF can warp in oversized applications, no matter what’s added for reinforcement.
- Profile Options: Most MDF doors come with standard profiles. While customization is possible, it’s not as extensive as solid wood.
- Moisture Sensitivity: MDF can swell if exposed to water, so it’s not recommended for high-humidity areas without a proper paint finish.
Knowing these limitations ahead of time will help you plan your design and avoid costly rework.
1-piece MDF Cabinet Doors Do Not Come Pre-Drilled For Blum Hinges
Not every supplier offers hinge drilling. Some do, but only if you request it.
At Cutting Edge, we offer Blum hinge drilling upon request. If you know your project requires specific hinge placements, it’s best to confirm drilling at the time of order. This avoids delays during installation.
Shaker Style MDF Cabinet Doors Have A Slight Radius In The Corners
Shaker-style cabinet doors are one of the most popular choices. However, when routed into MDF, the corners of the inset panel have a slight radius rather than a perfectly sharp square.
Some suppliers can machine sharp corners, but it’s less common. If crisp square corners are important to your design, make sure to ask before ordering.
How To Learn What To Expect When Ordering MDF Cabinet Doors
When it comes to ordering MDF cabinet doors, the truth is that no two suppliers are exactly alike. Some include sanding, some don’t. Some drill for hinges, others leave it to you. Some clearly state their size limitations, while others leave you guessing until it’s too late.
If you’ve ever dealt with a supplier who left out critical details, you already know how frustrating it can be. Delays occur, projects stall, and your reputation is hurt. That’s why it’s so important to ask the right questions before you hit “submit.”
6 Key Questions To Ask Any MDF Cabinet Door Supplier
Here’s a practical guide you can use to avoid surprises:
- Are the doors sanded and ready for paint? Some suppliers ship MDF doors rough-cut. If you’re not prepared to sand them, this could add hours of extra work.
- Do you paint doors, and how are they finished? Painted options can save time, but they may cost more and limit your colour choices.
- What size limitations apply to MDF doors? Oversized MDF doors (over 43” tall or 30” wide) can warp. Check the warranty and ask how the supplier handles these limitations.
- Do you offer hinge drilling, and which hinge systems are supported? Some suppliers pre-drill for Blum or other systems, while others don’t offer it at all.
- How are shaker corners machined? Ask whether the supplier uses a radius or square corner.
- What is your warranty process if a problem occurs? Even the best-made products sometimes have problems. A clear, straightforward warranty can save you stress when something goes wrong.
Red Flags To Watch Out For
Even with the right questions, some suppliers show warning signs that they may not be the right fit. If you notice any of these red flags when ordering MDF cabinet doors, take a step back and reconsider:
- Vague or inconsistent answers about prep, painting, or hinge drilling
- Refusal to discuss size limitations or warp warranties
- Complicated warranty processes that make replacements difficult
- Lack of transparency around lead times and shipping
When you ask the right questions, you set clear expectations. This protects you and strengthens your relationship with your supplier. Contractors and builders who clarify details upfront finish jobs faster, avoid hidden costs, and build a reputation for reliability.
Even if you’ve worked with the same supplier for years, don’t assume every order will be the same. A quick checklist of questions can save you from costly surprises down the road.
Learn How To Price Out 1-Piece MDF Cabinet Doors Online
At the end of the day, ordering 1-piece MDF cabinet doors doesn’t have to be confusing. You came here because you needed clarity on what’s included. Now you know what to expect and what questions to ask.
We understand how frustrating it can be to receive doors that don’t match your needs, especially when deadlines are on the line. That’s why we’ve spent over 20 years refining our process to make sure your projects stay on schedule.
Your next step is simple: learn how to price out your 1-piece MDF cabinet doors online with Cutting Edge. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect before you order, saving you time, money, and stress.
