If a new kitchen is on the cards at your church, or something you’re building funding for, it’s important to choose materials that will not only stand the test of time but also provide peace of mind when it comes to hygiene and food safety

Providing a halfway house between domestic and professional catering kitchens, a semi-commercial kitchen offers a warm and welcoming space for everyone who uses it. However, with so many options on the market, we understand that it can be difficult to decide which materials to install and what they offer…

MDF and chipboard
One of the most widely-used sheet materials in the world, chipboard is affordable and convenient – much like MDF, which is most commonly used in kitchen cabinets. However, while suitable for domestic kitchens, these materials can easily soak up oils, grease and germs, making them inadequate for a semi-commercial purpose. They also encourage mite infestations, which can cause health and safety issues.

You may also find during your kitchen research that foil wrapped MDF is an option – this is when a thin layer of plastic or paper is mixed with resin or foil and bonded to MDF. Plastic lipping around chipboard might also be something you come across but neither of these will provide a sustainable hygienic seal due to the natural way in which they peel and crack overtime.

Additionally, these materials are weak, which can cause problems with screw fittings and fixings and easy breakage. A better solution for the lifecycle of your kitchen? Stainless steel.

Stainless steel kitchens
Designed to stand the test of time and last longer than a standard domestic wooden or MDF semi-commercial kitchen, a powder-coated steel carcass from Steelplan Kitchens will act as a protective layer against scratches and chips. Ultimately, creating a hygienic surface that is impervious to water, non-porous and easy to keep bacteria-free.

They also won’t peel like traditional paint or foil, and can be used for worktops as well as cabinets. Creating a durable, hygienic and fire-resistant kitchen in your church. One that is also welcoming, aesthetically pleasing and saves money in the long-term on replacing wooden alternatives.

Steelplan Kitchens tip: With many semi-commercial kitchens, the focus is on installing a solid, durable and hygienic worktop, but weaker, less effective cupboard. At Steelplan Kitchens, we use quality stainless steel throughout your kitchen, saving on costly repairs and ensuring a hygienic setting. Why? Because wood is no good.

If you’re ready to start your kitchen journey, call the Steelplan Kitchens team on 0844 809 9186 – we can discuss your plans, our products and how we create the perfect kitchen for you and your community