How to Choose the Right Materials for Your Joinery Project

Radoslaw QA Solutions Ltd
Aug 28
4 min read

Stacked lumber in a warehouse on metal shelves. Wooden planks vary in size, organized neatly under a corrugated metal roof.

Choosing the right materials is the foundation of any successful joinery project. Whether you're planning custom-built wardrobes, new staircases, fitted furniture, or intricate woodwork in your home, the quality and type of materials you select will impact the final look, durability, and long-term satisfaction.

At Sharpsaw Joinery & Builders, we specialise in joinery services in Aberdeen and surrounding areas - and we know how vital it is to guide our clients through material choices that fit both their aesthetic vision and practical needs.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider when choosing joinery materials - from wood types and finishes to sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

Understand the Purpose of Your Joinery Project

Before diving into wood species and finishes, think about how your joinery feature will be used:

High-traffic or weight-bearing elements like staircases or doors need strong, durable hardwoods.
Built-in wardrobes, shelving, or panelling may allow for more flexibility in material choice.
Kitchens and bathrooms require moisture-resistant materials and finishes to avoid warping or cracking over time.

Every project has its own requirements—so it’s essential to match materials to the function.

Solid Wood vs Engineered Wood: What's Best?

There are two main categories in joinery materials: solid wood and engineered wood products like MDF or plywood. Each has its pros and cons.

Solid Wood Joinery

Solid wood is a timeless choice. It offers natural beauty, unique grain patterns, and strong structural properties.

Popular hardwoods: Oak, Ash, Maple, Beech, Walnut
Popular softwoods: Pine, Cedar

✅ Advantages:

Durable and long-lasting
Natural, luxurious look
Can be sanded and refinished

⚠️ Considerations:

More expensive
Sensitive to humidity (may expand/contract)

Solid oak staircases or ash doors, for example, bring incredible warmth and elegance to a home - and are often worth the investment.

Engineered Wood (MDF, Plywood, Veneered Panels)

Engineered materials are manufactured from real wood fibres or layers, designed to be more stable and cost-effective.

✅ Advantages:

Less expensive
Smooth, uniform finish (ideal for painted surfaces)
Resistant to warping

⚠️ Considerations:

Less natural aesthetic
Not as strong as solid wood
Harder to repair once damaged

For painted wardrobes or contemporary shelving, MDF with a durable spray finish is often ideal.

Choose the Right Wood Species

Your material should match the project’s design style and usage. Here’s a quick guide to popular species used in joinery work in Aberdeen:

Wood Type	Ideal Use	Style	Notes
Oak	Doors, staircases, fitted furniture	Traditional, modern	Strong, heavy, classic
Pine	Shelving, doors, general joinery	Rustic, budget-friendly	Softer wood, needs protective finish
Walnut	Bespoke furniture, accents	Luxury, modern	Dark grain, high-end finish
Ash	Doors, stairs, furniture	Scandinavian, minimalist	Light in colour, resilient
Beech	Cabinetry, furniture	Smooth, modern	Durable but slightly difficult to stain

Not sure what suits your home best? Our team at Sharpsaw can walk you through samples and examples to make an informed choice.

Consider Finishes and Paint Options

The finish applied to your joinery can drastically alter the final appearance and longevity.

Clear lacquer or oil – enhances the wood grain, keeps it natural
Painted finish – for a clean, contemporary look (ideal on MDF)
Wax or stain – adds colour without hiding the wood grain
Laminates or veneers – for durability and easy maintenance, especially in kitchens and bathrooms

We always recommend high-quality, low-VOC finishes that are better for your health and the environment.

Moisture Resistance Matters

For kitchen units, bathroom joinery, or garden structures, moisture resistance is critical.

Use marine-grade plywood or moisture-resistant MDF in high-humidity areas.
Apply a waterproof sealant or finish where necessary.
Avoid using untreated softwood in spaces that are prone to damp.

We’ve seen many poorly executed joinery projects in Aberdeen homes where materials weren’t suitable for the environment. With Sharpsaw, you get experienced joiners who understand how to protect your investment.

Sustainability & Sourcing

Modern homeowners are more environmentally conscious than ever - and joinery can reflect that.

Choose FSC-certified wood from responsibly managed forests
Reclaimed timber is another eco-friendly option with great character
We source local or UK-based timber whenever possible to reduce carbon impact

Sharpsaw is committed to sustainable practices while delivering exceptional craftsmanship across all joinery projects.

Cost vs Value

Joinery is an investment in your home - and like all investments, quality matters.

Solid wood will generally cost more upfront but adds long-term value
Engineered materials offer affordability for larger projects or built-ins
Bespoke joinery may cost more than flat-pack, but it fits perfectly, lasts longer, and looks far superior

Built-in wardrobes start from £500, while bespoke staircases start from £3,000 - each crafted with precision and care.

Why Choose Sharpsaw for Your Joinery Project?

We understand that choosing materials for joinery work can be overwhelming. That’s why our Aberdeen-based joinery team provides hands-on advice, design guidance, and full-service craftsmanship - from initial consultation to final installation.

Whether you’re renovating your home, upgrading a staircase, or commissioning built-in storage, we ensure your materials match your vision, your lifestyle, and your budget.