Installing new kitchen cabinets is a great way to refresh your kitchen, giving it a new look and improved functionality. Since kitchen cabinets are a big investment, you’ll want to make sure that they last for years to come. Preventing damage to your cabinets is easy if you know what to look for. Keep your cabinets in top shape by being aware of these potential hazards:
- Poor layout or installation. Before your cabinets are even installed, review the layout to ensure that there is plenty of clearance for each cabinet door to open without hitting another cabinet, the refrigerator, or other kitchen object. Too much contact can cause damage over time. Additionally, ensure that the cabinets are installed properly by a trained professional so that the joints are secure.
- Temperature changes. Fluctuations in temperature can wreak havoc on kitchen cabinets. Frequent expansion and contraction can cause cabinets to warp, making it harder for them to open and close. Temperature changes can also cause paint to chip or small cracks to form on cabinet panels. Keep your home at a steady temperature and address any humidity issues promptly to avoid damage to your cabinets.
- Water. Perhaps one of the most common causes of damage to kitchen cabinets is water. While most cabinets can withstand small splashes of water, overflows and big spills can cause paint to crack and cabinets to expand. In the event of a large water accident, clean the area immediately and dry thoroughly. In addition, be aware of steam that is emitted from kettles, pressure cookers, and other kitchen appliances. Upper cabinets can absorb this steam and, over time, can experience the same type of water damage.
- Pests. Bugs love the warm, moist environment of the kitchen and often seek shelter in the dark that cabinets provide. Wood-eating bugs like termites, beetles, and carpenter ants can cause structural damage to your cabinets, compromising their functionality and beauty. To prevent damage to kitchen cabinets it’s important to take care of a bug problem as soon as possible and take preventive steps so that the bugs don’t return.
- Improper cleaning. Using the wrong type of cleaning solution on your cabinets can also damage them. Harsh products like bleach or ammonia can damage the finish of the cabinets; mild solutions should be used instead. Always test a new product in a small, out of the way area of the cabinet before fully cleaning. To prevent excess moisture from accumulating in your cabinet, wring out the cloth before washing and allow the cabinets to dry fully before closing the doors.
Myrtle Beach Cabinets is your home for all your cabinet needs, from cleaning tips to design to installation. We offer a wide range of cabinet options to meet all budgets and visions. For a no-obligation cabinet estimate or to learn more about our products, contact us online or at (843) 273-6336.