When it comes to kitchen remodeling, one of the most critical elements to consider is the cabinets. Cabinets can make or break a kitchen’s design, and they are often one of the most expensive parts of a renovation. However, renovation industry pros from Kitchen Magic claim that many homeowners don’t realize how easy it is to damage them if they aren’t careful.
How Can I Accidentally Damage My Kitchen Cabinets?
Here are five ways that you could be damaging your cabinets without even realizing it:
1. Overloading
You may be tempted to stuff too many items into your cabinets, but this can cause pressure on the hinges and door frames. This can lead to warping, splitting and cracking over time, which can compromise the integrity of the cabinet and result in costly repairs or replacements.
2. Improper Cleaning Solutions
Many people use harsh chemical cleaners on their kitchen cabinets when they should actually be using milder products such as dish soap or wood polish specifically designed for wood cabinets. These harsher chemicals can strip away protective layers and leave behind a residue that accelerates wear and tear on the cabinets.
3. Poor Installation
One of the biggest mistakes people make when installing new kitchen cabinets is failing to secure them properly or level them correctly. This can cause problems with doors not shutting all the way or drawers not gliding smoothly — both of which can put undue pressure on other components and lead to permanent damage over time.
4. Improper Moisture Control
If you have wooden cabinets, moisture control is key. Excess humidity or water exposure, whether from steam while cooking, leaks from sink fixtures or even just everyday condensation, can lead to warping and discoloration in wood cabinetry. This is often impossible to repair without a full replacement.
5. Ignoring Repairs
Kitchen cabinet hinge screws tend to come loose over time due to normal wear and tear, but many people ignore these little issues until they become bigger problems down the line. For example, if door hinges aren’t tightened regularly they may start sagging after some time, creating more stress on other components like drawer slides. This can result in further damage down the road that could have been avoided by just tightening up those screws periodically.
How Can I Properly Take Care of My Kitchen Cabinets?
It’s important to be proactive when caring for your cabinets in order to avoid costly repairs down the line. The following tips will help you keep your kitchen cabinets looking great for years to come:
1. Regular Cleaning with Mild Solutions
First, regularly remove dust and debris from the cabinet exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Don’t forget to wipe down the handles and knobs too. To protect against water damage and staining, you should use a mild cleaner or wood polish on the exterior at least once every few months. If your cabinets are laminate or painted, then use a non-abrasive spray cleaner specifically designed for this material.
2. Regular Maintenance
You should periodically check for loose screws or hardware that needs tightening and take care of them. It’s also important to check for outdated sealant between the countertops and backsplash of the cabinet which may need reapplication. Finally, make sure you always store heavy items on lower shelves so that they don’t cause strain on the frame of the cabinet itself.
Taking proper care of your kitchen cabinets can be easy if done regularly. Make sure you’re using appropriate products and methods to maintain their appearance while also preserving their longevity. Regularly wiping away dust and debris while using preventative measures like sealing every few years will ensure your kitchen looks great for many years to come.
