Premium-Grade Products for Lasting Closets
At Up Closets, we build every custom storage system with industry-leading materials chosen for their strength, appearance, and longevity. Unlike many closet companies that rely on particleboard, MDF, or melamine, we use heavy-duty Aranco Prism TFL (Thermally Fused Laminate) panels and European-engineered hardware from TAG and Häfele to deliver durable, beautiful systems that outperform and outlast.
Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) is the modern evolution of traditional melamine and HPL (High Pressure Laminate). It was developed in Europe for high-end kitchen cabinetry and is now the preferred material for premium closet and cabinet systems in the U.S. It is often more expensive than ordinary closet construction materials.
We proudly source 90% of our TFL from Aranco, an American manufacturer based in North Carolina. The remainder comes from Uniboard, a Canadian leader in engineered panel solutions.
Heavy-Duty Performance: Our engineered core supports 250–300 lbs on a single 32″ shelf—significantly stronger than melamine or plywood.
Furniture-Grade Quality: With rich woodgrain textures and modern finishes, Aranco’s Prisim line rivals real hardwood in appearance.
Heat-Fused Durability: The paper-resin layer is fused directly to the core using heat and pressure—not glued like melamine—resulting in a harder, more scratch-resistant surface.
Eco-Friendly Construction: Our TFL is carbon-neutral, formaldehyde-free, recyclable, and comes with a structural warranty.
Made in the USA: Aranco is 100% American-made, and we are proud to be a direct, exclusive partner.
| Material | Strength | Core Composition | Durability | Moisture Resistance | Appearance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TFL (Up Closets) | High (250–300 lbs/shelf) | Engineered lumber core with large wood strands | Highly scratch/chip resistant | High | Realistic wood textures | $$$ |
| Melamine/HPL | Moderate (100–150 lbs/shelf) | Often MDF or particleboard | Prone to chipping/discoloring | Low–Medium | Basic finish | $$ |
| Particleboard/MDF | Low (50–100 lbs/shelf) | Pressed sawdust or paper core | Easily crumbles, chips, swells | Low | Plain | $ |
| Plywood | Medium | Layers of thin wood veneer | Decent but not ideal for closets | Medium | Exposed edges | $$ |
Many budget closet systems—such as those at big-box retailers or lower-cost franchises—are built with traditional HPL (melamine) pressed onto cheaper cores like MDF or particleboard. These materials may look similar on the surface, but they can warp, swell with moisture, chip easily, and carry far less weight.
TFL, by contrast, requires diamond-tipped saw blades to cut. It’s that much stronger.
No great closet system is complete without top-tier hardware. We use TAG Hardware for stylish and functional accessories, and Häfele for precision European hinges, glides, and components.
Together, our materials and hardware ensure that every Up Closets installation is as strong, beautiful, and reliable as it is custom. Your locally owned Up Closets location can design and build any type of closet you want – share your Pinterest ideas and we can deliver!
A: Up Closets uses heavy-duty Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) panels—primarily from Aranco (USA) and Uniboard (Canada)—along with premium hardware from TAG and Häfele. These components are furniture-grade and engineered for strength, durability, and aesthetics.
A: TFL is a modern, high-performance material made by heat-fusing a decorative paper layer to an engineered wood core. Unlike traditional melamine (HPL), TFL creates a more durable, scratch-resistant surface and offers realistic woodgrain finishes. It is widely used in high-end kitchens, closets, and cabinetry.
A: TFL panels used by Up Closets are stronger, more moisture-resistant, and more visually appealing than common materials like MDF or particleboard. The core is made from oriented wood strands (not sawdust), giving it a much higher weight capacity—up to 300 lbs per 32″ shelf. TFL is also thicker, less prone to chipping, and does not off-gas harmful chemicals.
A: Yes. Aranco’s TFL is carbon neutral, formaldehyde-free, recyclable, and manufactured in the USA using sustainable practices. It’s one of the most eco-conscious options available in the furniture-grade panel market.
A: No. Up Closets does not use melamine or HPL, which are often found in lower-quality or mass-produced systems. These products are typically pressed onto lower-grade cores like MDF or particleboard, and may chip, swell, or discolor over time.
A: Aranco produces heavy-duty commercial-grade TFL with thicker coatings, higher density cores, and superior finish quality. It’s designed for structural applications like closets and shelving, and is exclusive to Up Closets for certain styles and finishes.
A: Up Closets uses TAG Hardware for modern accessories and finishing touches, and Häfele for precision-engineered hinges, glides, and structural components. These European and North American manufacturers are known for quality, durability, and style.
A: The majority of Up Closets’ TFL comes from Aranco in North Carolina. Additional panels are sourced from Uniboard in Canada. Hardware is sourced from TAG (North America) and Häfele (Germany and U.S. distribution).
A: Yes. Up Closets uses Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) panels that are carbon neutral, recyclable, and made with sustainable forestry practices. Aranco, our primary supplier, manufactures in North Carolina using eco-responsible processes and non-toxic adhesives. Our closet systems are built to last, reducing landfill waste from short-lived furniture alternatives.
A: Up Closets systems are designed with heavy-duty TFL and engineered lumber cores that support up to 300 lbs per 32-inch shelf, depending on installation and configuration. This is 2–3 times stronger than standard particleboard or melamine systems, making them ideal for storing heavy items without sagging or failure over time.
A: No. The TFL panels we use are formaldehyde-free and meet strict indoor air quality standards. Unlike MDF or low-grade particleboard that can off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), our materials are heat-fused and sealed—ensuring no harmful emissions, safer indoor air, and peace of mind for your family.
Chris RyderWe had an incredible experience with Up Closets, and would highly recommend them!!!
Ryan was very thorough throughout the design process, and walked us through multiple design recommendations to best utilize our space.
Thanks, Ryan and Up Closets team!!!
Linda BaxterFantastic experience and the only project I’ve had this year that came in complete on/before estimated time of delivery! Bobby was incredibly helpful with taking my rough sketch and turning it into a reality – my “dream” closet provides both function and form and I could not be happier with the end result.
From my first appointment to the follow up install, I received regular communication via email as we went back and forth with ideas, received phone calls for any changes and texts for product shipping updates as they happened. I never felt “in the dark” about next steps or when I could expect something to happen (a huge relief for someone that needs to mentally check the boxes!). I am super happy with this project and the fantastic customer service provided.
HIGHLY recommend Up Closets of Memphis – 5/5 stars!
(( I think Bobby was almost as excited with the end result as I was – and that’s a good feeling! ))
Seth WebberWe had an outstanding experience working with Bobby from Up Closets of Memphis. From start to finish, he streamlined the entire custom closet design process, making it so easy for us. Bobby really listened to what we wanted and created a design that perfectly meets our needs, all while staying within our budget. He came out to our home, designed the closet on-site, and the professional installation was completed in just one day. The finished product looks phenomenal! We absolutely love our new walk-in closet and couldn’t be happier with the quality service. Highly recommend!
Kayla MaxwellAngie was great to work with and made my dreams come true. I love my closets! They were affordable, I was able to transform all of my closets for LESS than the competition quoted me for my master alone. Here are a couple of pictures that just do not do it justice and our new master closet is out of this world!
V Annette AuthementGwen and her team at Up Closets were AWESOME! From the estimate to the install, everything went very smoothly and exactly as described when we made the agreement:). I definitely recommend using Up Closets to maximize and beautify your space!
Yes, custom closets are more affordable than you might think! We offer a variety of design options to fit different budgets. With our flexible pricing and cost-effective solutions, you can transform your space without breaking the bank. Plus, a well-organized closet adds value to your home, making it a smart investment for the long term. Contact us for a free consultation and discover how we can create a custom closet that fits both your needs and your budget!
The timeline for installing a custom closet typically ranges from 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the space. Our team works efficiently to deliver quality results without unnecessary delays.
The cost of a custom closet varies based on factors like size, design complexity, and materials used. We offer a range of options to fit different budgets, so you get the best value for your investment. Contact us for a free consultation and personalized quote.
Yes! Custom closets can be designed for bedrooms, walk-in spaces, pantries, garages, mudrooms, and even laundry rooms. No matter the space, we create functional, stylish solutions that make the most of your available room.
Getting started is easy! Simply contact us to schedule a free consultation, and we’ll guide you through the design process. We’ll listen to your needs, create a personalized plan, and work with you to bring your vision to life.