Best Modular kitchen 2025 |HDHMR, Boilo, Plywood, MDF, and PVC Sheet – cost, benefits & disadvantages.
1. HDHMR (High Density High Moisture Resistant)
Details:
Engineered board made from fiber chips and resin.
High density and moisture resistance make it ideal for kitchen use.
Cost:
₹80–₹120 per sq.ft (depends on brand and thickness)
Benefits:
Water & termite resistant.
Stronger than MDF, smoother than plywood.
Screw-holding capacity is good.
Ideal for shutters and under-sink areas.
Disadvantages:
Slightly expensive compared to regular plywood.
Not as strong as Boilo or BWP plywood.
2. Boilo (BWP Grade Boiling Waterproof Plywood)
Details:
Premium grade plywood; BWP stands for Boiling Water Proof.
Made from hardwood and bonded with phenol formaldehyde resin.
Cost:
₹130–₹180 per sq.ft
Benefits:
Excellent waterproofing – suitable for Indian kitchens.
Long life (15–20 years).
Termite-proof, high load-bearing.
Disadvantages:
Expensive.
Heavy to work with, harder to cut/shape.
3. Plywood (MR & BWR/BWP Grade)
Details:
Most popular material.
Available in MR (Moisture Resistant) and BWR/BWP (Boiling Water Resistant/Proof).
Cost:
MR Grade: ₹55–₹70 per sq.ft
BWR Grade: ₹85–₹120 per sq.ft
BWP Grade: ₹120–₹160 per sq.ft
Benefits:
Strong, durable, good for carcass and shutters.
Easily available in India.
BWR/BWP is suitable for kitchen use.
Disadvantages:
MR not suitable for wet areas.
Quality varies across brands – must check certification.
4. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
Details:
Made by compressing wood fibers with resin.
Popular for painted or decorative finishes.
Cost:
₹40–₹80 per sq.ft
Benefits:
Smooth finish, great for painted designs and CNC cutting.
Cost-effective for shutters.
Disadvantages:
Poor water resistance – not suitable for wet areas.
Low screw-holding capacity.
Swells if exposed to moisture.
5. PVC Sheet (Foam Board or Hollow PVC)
Details:
Plastic-based material, available as hollow or foam board.
Cost:
₹35–₹70 per sq.ft
Benefits:
100% waterproof and termite-proof.
Very lightweight.
Easy to clean and maintain.
Disadvantages:
Looks plasticky, less premium finish.
Low strength – not ideal for heavy storage.
Hinges may loosen over time.
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Conclusion: Best Material by Use Case
Area Best Material Reason
Under-sink cabinet Boilo / HDHMR Highest moisture exposure
Regular base & wall units BWP/BWR Plywood Balance of strength and moisture resistance
Decorative shutters MDF / HDHMR Smooth finish, good for paint or CNC work
Budget kitchen PVC Sheet / MDF Low-cost option, use in dry zones only
Premium kitchens Boilo + HDHMR Combo Long-term durability + modern finish