Quick answer: Aluminium kitchen cabinets cost more (from about S$280 per foot run vs roughly S$120 to S$160 for plywood) but they do not swell, rot or attract termites. Plywood is cheaper and can look like real wood, but its edges absorb moisture in Singapore’s humid climate. Aluminium suits homeowners who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance kitchen.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Aluminium cabinet | Plywood with laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Price per foot run | From S$280 | Approx. S$120 – S$160 |
| Water resistance | Waterproof, never swells | Edges absorb moisture and can swell |
| Termites | Termite-proof, nothing for termites to eat | Vulnerable without treatment |
| Formaldehyde | Zero-formaldehyde construction | Glues in many boards contain formaldehyde |
| Fire | Non-combustible | Combustible |
| Lifespan | Designed for 20+ years | Typically 8 – 12 years |
| Maintenance | Wipe clean, very low upkeep | Needs care around the sink and edges |
| Look and finish | Wood-grain, matte, solid colours | Wide range of laminates and veneers |
| Repairs | Rarely needed | Common where water reaches the board |
Why Plywood Struggles in Singapore
Singapore’s humidity stays high throughout the year. Plywood is built from glued layers of wood, and the cut edges and any exposed core slowly absorb moisture, especially around the sink, dishwasher and hob. Over time that can cause swelling, bubbling laminate, doors pushed out of alignment and drawers that bind. Termites are another risk because plywood is a food source.
Why Aluminium Handles It Better
Aluminium has no organic material, so there is nothing to swell, rot or feed termites. Honeycomb-reinforced panels with welded joints keep the cabinet rigid. Read how this works in our honeycomb aluminium cabinet guide and termite-proof kitchen cabinets guide.
When Plywood Still Makes Sense
- You are on a tight budget and cost today matters most.
- You plan to renovate again within a few years.
- You want real veneer or a very specific timber look.
Total Cost Over Time
Aluminium costs more upfront, but plywood cabinets that swell or get damaged may need repairs or an early replacement, which adds to their real cost. For the numbers on aluminium, see our price per foot run guide. Planning a full makeover? Look at kitchen renovation or our aluminium kitchen cabinet page.
Also see: benefits of aluminium kitchen cabinets and aluminium cabinet FAQs.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most homes, yes, because aluminium resists moisture, steam and termites that affect plywood in Singapore’s humidity. Plywood is cheaper and can suit short-term or low-budget renovations.
Aluminium starts from about S$280 per foot run, while plywood with laminate is typically around S$120 to S$160 per foot run.
Plywood is made of wood, so it can be attacked by termites unless it is treated. Aluminium gives termites nothing to eat.
No. Wood-grain and matte finishes give a warm, modern look, and many homeowners cannot tell the difference from a distance.
Aluminium cabinets are designed to last 20 years or more, while plywood cabinets typically last around 8 to 12 years in humid conditions.