What Are NEXGEN Slim Shaker Cabinet Doors?
Discover what NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors are, their unique challenges, and how to use this product for modern, stylish cabinetry.
As a cabinet maker or contractor, staying on top of emerging trends is crucial to meeting customer demands. But how can you ensure you’re not sacrificing quality by embracing new products? The last thing you want is to jeopardize your reputation with unreliable materials that cause delays or defects. So, are NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors the right fit for your next project?
At Cutting Edge, we’ve partnered with contractors and cabinet makers for over 20 years. Our commitment to quality ensures we only offer products that are durable and functional. With our expertise, you’ll not only stay ahead of trends but also maintain the high standards your clients expect.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- What NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors are
- Why NEXGEN slim shaker doors use Tafisa® Karisma® materials
- What NEXGEN slim shaker doors look like
- Potential challenges you may face when using NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors
But first, you need to understand what NEXGEN™ products are.
But First, What Are NEXGEN™ Products?
NEXGEN™ products are cabinet materials developed by Olon Industries and trademarked in 2016. These products have an MDF core wrapped in a decorative layer, offering a modern alternative to traditional wood.
Key features of NEXGEN™ materials include:
- Durability: Resistant to heat, scratches, and fading.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A seamless, uniform finish suitable for contemporary designs.
- Cost Efficiency: More affordable than solid wood without compromising on style.
Originally, the term NEXGEN referred to Olon’s products. However, the industry soon began using this term to describe any products with an MDF core and paper or laminate wrap.
In fact, the NEXGEN slim shaker doors you’re learning about don’t use the true NEXGEN materials.
What Are NEXGEN Slim Shaker Cabinet Doors?
Slim shaker cabinet doors are a minimalist twist on the traditional shaker design. Instead of a wide and deep frame, these doors feature a narrower and shallower frame. These doors appeal to customers seeking modern, streamlined aesthetics. When made with NEXGEN materials, these slim shaker doors combine style with practicality.
NEXGEN Slim Shaker Cabinet Doors Use Tafisa® Karisma® Materials
Many NEXGEN slim shaker doors use Tafisa® Karisma® materials, which have a paper wrap rather than a laminate finish. This material offers a sleek appearance, but it’s important to note that it is less durable than traditional NEXGEN laminates.
So why do cabinet door manufacturers use this material for slim shaker doors? The answer is simple – Tafisa’s Karisma collection is one of the first to offer a slim shaker profile. Because they were among the first to this market, these products are the most popular option for NEXGEN slim shaker doors. However, the reduced durability means you’ll need to take extra care during installation and use.
Key Design Features of NEXGEN Slim Shaker Cabinet Doors
The design and construction of NEXGEN slim shaker doors vary based on the supplier. At Cutting Edge, we use Tafisa® Karisma® Gamma or Kappa moulding for a clean, consistent finish.
Specifications of Cutting Edge’s NEXGEN Slim Shaker Doors:
- Moulding Dimensions: ½” wide and ¾” thick.
- Centre Panel: A ⅝” thick panel that forms the main body of the door.
- Construction: The moulding wraps around the panel edges to create the slim shaker profile.
NEXGEN Slim Shaker Cabinet Doors Present Unique Challenges
NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors have a lot to offer – modern style and affordability – but they also come with unique challenges. As a contractor or cabinet maker, it’s essential to understand these potential hurdles. You must ensure your projects stay on track to meet your client’s expectations. While these doors are a fantastic choice for minimalist designs, their slim construction and specific materials require a more careful approach during production and installation.
Understanding these challenges in advance can help you avoid common pitfalls. Let’s explore the unique obstacles these doors present and how to address them.
The Thin Panel Makes Hinge Installation Difficult
The Issue:
The thin ⅝” centre panel in NEXGEN slim shaker doors can make hinge installation tricky. Due to the reduced thickness, there’s less material to work with when drilling, which increases the risk of cracking.
The Solution:
To avoid issues, use a drill press or jig to ensure precision and stability during hinge preparation. Always mark the hinge locations before drilling, and consider using pilot holes to reduce stress on the panel. Additionally, work with care and avoid using excessive force, which could damage the panel. Using hardware designed for thinner panels can also improve your results.
The Narrow Moulding Can Lead to Inconsistencies
The Issue:
The narrow mouldings used in NEXGEN slim shaker doors, such as Tafisa® Karisma® Gamma or Kappa moulding, can have slight variances. Your supplier will likely ensure the front face remains consistent and uniform. However, this means the back of the door may have small gaps or inconsistencies where the moulding meets the centre panel.
The Solution:
Address these concerns upfront with your client to manage expectations. You should explain the potential for minor variances on the reverse side of the doors. Plus, emphasize that the face will remain consistent and appealing. Providing samples can help your client understand the look and feel of the product before installation. This proactive communication builds trust and ensures your client can make an informed decision.
Discover the Pros and Cons of NEXGEN Slim Shaker Cabinet Doors
In the past, contractors like you may have struggled with inconsistent suppliers and outdated options. Or, worse yet, had up-to-date options that fell short of your expectations. Today, NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors offer a stylish, cost-effective solution to meet modern design trends. However, their reduced durability and installation challenges are two of many factors you need to consider.
At Cutting Edge, we ensure that our NEXGEN slim shaker doors meet high standards. We want to help you deliver beautiful results on time and without compromise. Your next step is to explore the pros and cons of NEXGEN slim shaker cabinet doors to ensure you fully understand this product before ordering.
