Skin Panel
Also known as: Cabinet Skin, Skin
A finished panel applied to the exposed side of a cabinet to match the door and drawer finish, giving the cabinet a furniture-like appearance. Also called an end panel or gable panel, it covers the unfinished cabinet box material. Skin panels are used when a cabinet is visible from the side, such as at the end of a run, next to a doorway, or on an island.
Specifying this for a job? Captivating Pro members buy at 20–40% off retail and get cut sheets before rough-in.
In practice
Order a skin whenever a cabinet side will be visible — the end of a run, the back of an island or peninsula, or beside a window. Installers attach skins with adhesive and a few brad nails, trimming on site for a flush fit.
Common questions
What is a cabinet skin panel used for?
It covers an exposed, unfinished cabinet side so the end of a run matches the doors — most stock cabinet boxes come with unfinished or laminate sides.
What is the difference between a skin panel and an end panel?
A skin is a thin (about ¼") overlay glued onto the cabinet side; a decorative end panel is a thicker, door-style panel that reads like furniture. Skins cost less; end panels look more custom.
