If cabinets have only been exposed to water for a short time, they may be salvageable with minor repairs. However, prolonged exposure can cause severe warping and swelling.
Start by surveying the damage and testing for moisture with a moisture meter. Next, dry out the cabinets with fans and dehumidifiers. Visit Cabinet Refinishing Modesto for more information.
MDF or Plywood?
MDF and plywood are two of the most popular wood composite materials available for construction and furniture, cabinet making, and decorative projects. Despite their similar appearance, they work very differently, and each has its strengths in different applications.
Plywood is made from layers of veneer, each with a varying grain that runs in a specific direction, and is stronger than MDF, so it’s more resistant to water damage. It’s also stainable, so you can create a very natural wood look for your kitchen cabinets or tabletops. Plywood holds screws very well, as the varying grains of each layer give them something to grip onto. However, because the edges of plywood show its plies, you’ll need to finish them with iron-on edge banding or pieces of timber if you plan on using it for decorative purposes. Plywood is also more expensive than MDF, though prices vary by species and thickness.
On the other hand, MDF is made from small pieces of sawdust that have been swept up from other wood products manufacturing processes, mixed with binders and pressed together into large sheets the size of plywood. It doesn’t handle moisture very well, so it’s not recommended for structural use outside, but is ideal for interior spaces. It has a smooth surface that is easy to paint, and can be cut with a saw like any other piece of wood. It’s very inexpensive compared to solid wood, and is perfect for smaller cabinetry or detailed work.
Regardless of what your cabinets are made from, it’s important to check for signs of water damage regularly. Swelling, discoloration, and warping are all clear indications of moisture damage. If you notice any of these, it’s best to get help from a professional right away.
Preventing water damage in your home isn’t always as simple as fixing leaks quickly and avoiding messy spills. There are other factors at play, such as the humidity level in your home, that influence how long it takes for materials to swell or mold. Use dehumidifiers, seal surfaces, and inspect all cabinets regularly to protect your home from moisture damage.
Check for Mold
If cabinets have been submerged or exposed to moisture for an extended period of time, mold can begin to grow. In many cases, mold growth can be stopped if the cabinets are removed and completely dried out before being replaced. Moldy cabinets should be discarded, as even if the mold is not visible, lingering moisture will foster further growth and create health hazards.
If you suspect mold, shut off the kitchen’s water supply at the main valve if possible and use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up excess moisture. Open windows and doors and run fans and a dehumidifier to boost ventilation. Pull out cabinet drawers to improve air flow and dry them separately from the cabinets themselves.
Inspect the surface of your cabinets for discoloration, warping and swelling. If you find any signs of rot or mold, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to discuss options. Mold can cause a wide range of health problems for occupants, from minor irritation and difficulty breathing to allergic reactions and asthma-like symptoms.
If your cabinets are swollen or warped beyond repair, they may be considered a total loss and need to be replaced. A professional can remove your cabinets, dehumidify and dry the contents, then re-install them in a new location with the proper support structure. This process is much faster and cheaper than a full kitchen demolition.
Particle board, a popular and inexpensive cabinet material, is particularly vulnerable to moisture damage. Consisting of particles of wood compressed together with glue and resin, the material can swell and crumble when saturated. If your particle board cabinets have extensive damage, they will likely need to be replaced.
If you live in a flood-prone area, regular inspections are an important step to help prevent water damage. Checking the condition of hoses, drain seals and water-resistant materials can prevent serious issues in the future.
Minor Repairs
The first thing you should do is remove everything from the cabinets, and make sure to set aside food that has been contaminated by water (unless it is hermetically sealed, like canned goods). This will allow you to improve air flow within the cabinet space and help them dry out faster.
Next, examine the cabinets for signs of damage and mold. Look for discoloration on the wood surfaces and warping. If you see any, try to address them quickly to mitigate further damage and prevent mold growth, which can spread throughout your kitchen and affect the quality of the air you breathe.
Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to repair or replace your cabinets. If you are able to salvage them, consider upgrading to flood resistant materials for long-term protection. Your insurance company may provide compensation for some or all of the replacement costs, based on your policy and level of coverage.
You should start by cleaning the cabinets, and removing any visible mold or mildew. Be sure to wear a mask or respirator when working in the affected area to avoid breathing in mold spores, dust, or paint fumes. Then, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the cabinets out as much as possible.
If your cabinets have significant structural damage or mold, you may need to replace them. In this case, it is a good idea to consult with an IICRC-certified professional to ensure your home and belongings are safe and protected.
Once your cabinets are repaired and refinished, they should be sealed to protect them from future moisture damage. Apply a few coats of waterproof sealant to the surface, and then refinish them with a new layer of stain or paint. You can also add soft-close hinges or handles to make your cabinets easier to open and close. After you’ve finished, be sure to wipe down the surfaces and let them dry completely. This will help to keep them clean and free from mold and mildew in the future. Finally, you should check your cabinets regularly for leaks, and install a water sensor in your kitchen near any sinks or appliances to catch problems before they get too serious.
Full Replacement
Cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom are often right in the crosshairs of water damage incidents—from plumbing leaks to dishwasher floods, high humidity levels over time can cause wood surfaces to swell and warp. If the wood isn’t properly dried, the cabinets can even start to crumble and fall apart. Drying and refinishing cabinets is a specialized job that’s best left to professionals unless you have experience in cabinetry. The right approach depends on the severity of the problem and your long-term goals for your kitchen.
Repairing water-damaged cabinets requires a combination of stain removal, wood glue application, and structural repairs. Light stains from water can usually be removed by sanding, and more severe discoloration may require chemical treatments like oxalic acid. Wood glue can also be used to re-secure areas of warped or separated plywood layers and clamp them until they’re fully dry. Refinishing cabinet surfaces after repairing and drying them will help restore their color and appearance.
In more serious cases of water damage, replacing the entire cabinet structure may be necessary. A full remodel can include a new layout and more design options, but comes with longer timelines and costs than refacing. The extra expense may be worth the investment if you plan to stay in your home long-term and want a modern, functional kitchen with durable materials.
Full replacement is also a good option if you have mold or other damage that can’t be fixed with repair or refinishing. Lingering moisture can encourage mold growth and lead to health hazards, so a new kitchen will be better for you and your family.
Both refacing and replacement are more cost-effective than buying and installing new cabinetry, but it’s important to consider your budget and timeline before making a decision. Choosing a quality contractor with precision-built components and fast turnarounds can keep projects on schedule, minimize project delays, and reduce stress for everyone involved. Be sure to set up a temporary kitchen space and move all your valuables before work begins to minimize your household disruption. Also, consider hiring a public adjuster to help you navigate the insurance claims process and get fair compensation for your kitchen renovations.