Paneled Appliances Or Stainless Steel: Which Will Stand The Test Of Time?
If you're tasked with finding the perfect appliances for your kitchen, two options that you may find yourself torn between are paneled and stainless steel appliances. The paneled appliance trend is making a comeback – these appliances can be made to look like kitchen cabinets, matching them exactly. They'll have an identical finish and material, often wood, that allows for a seamless, integrated look. Buying a panel-ready appliance such as a dishwasher or refrigerator allows you to easily attach custom panels that align with your kitchen aesthetic, giving this part of your home a seamless appearance.
Despite looking great, not everyone is sold on paneled appliances. One problem is that their durability is often lacking when compared to stainless steel appliances. They can be long-lasting depending on the quality of their construction, but this varies — they'll only be as durable as your cabinets and the materials you use. Paneled appliances are typically made of wood, which isn't as durable as stainless steel. Panel replacements may be necessary over time if the panels become discolored or get nicks and scratches.
On the other hand, stainless steel appliances stand the test of time well and do a better job of resisting scratches and heavy use. Stainless steel is also easy to maintain, although you may need to rely on certain cleaning hacks to prevent rust. Both stainless steel appliances and paneled appliances can last at least a decade, if not 15 or 20 years. However, this depends on how well you take care of each type, the brand you purchase, and the specifics of any paneled appliances you install. Because of the increased durability, stainless steel appliances are likely to look better for longer, even if the lifespans of each type of appliance are similar.
How to determine which type of appliance is best for your home
The choice between paneled and stainless steel appliances isn't clear-cut. Both offer advantages and disadvantages, and specifics vary. Generally speaking, however, paneled appliances are probably the better choice if you're interested in a serious kitchen makeover and you are prioritizing the aesthetic appeal and luxuriousness of this part of your home. The stunning integrated look can do a great job of elevating a kitchen design.
If you choose paneled appliances, however, you need to ensure quality. Paneled appliances are generally more expensive than stainless steel appliances, but make sure to spend your money wisely. Work with a qualified contractor to get the paneling installation right. A carpenter or cabinet maker can help ensure the paneling is done right. Also, be aware that not all panel materials can be found. If your cabinets were installed a long time ago, you'll want to be sure you're able to get the matching panels before buying panel-ready appliances. Lack of available materials can also make future replacements difficult as well.
On the other hand, if you don't want to go through the trouble of customizing your kitchen and getting the paneled look just right, consider stainless steel appliances instead. Stainless steel appliances boast affordability, durability, and a classic look. Installation is also simple and easy. Despite this, some think that stainless steel is going out of style and looks a bit too sterile for a modern home. You may not want to choose them for your home kitchen if you want to keep it as trendy and aesthetically pleasing as possible.