Water damage is a very common issue that home owners see in kitchens and baths. In these areas cabinets are put near to sinks, plumbing, dishwashers and large appliances which in turn makes them very prone to issues like leaks, spills, and high humidity. At the first sign of a problem many home owners turn to water damaged cabinet repair options in the hope that they can fix the damage and avoid the large cost of replacement. It is important to determine the extent of the damage before making a decision as not all cabinet types react the same way to water.
What causes Cabinet damage from water?
Cabinets out of which moisture is easily absorbed like particleboard, MDF, plywood and solid wood are common. Upon penetration at the surface what we see is swelling, warping, delamination or mold growth. Also very small leaks that may go unnoticed can cause large scale structural problems over time.
Kitchens and bath rooms are the most at risk which is a result of constant steam, splash, and issues with the plumbing. A slow leak from a pipe in the cabinet may go on for some time before it is detected. By the which time paint is peeling or panels are spongy the damage may in fact be well advanced.
Signs Your Cabinets Have Water Damage
Early identification makes the difference between repair and full replacement. Some warning signs are mild, others are clear.
Swelled out surfaces are a sign that the core has taken in moisture. Dark marks, rotting of the laminate put forth the idea of long term exposure. A damp smell is a good indicator of mold or mildew growth within the cabinet structure. When doors don’t shut right this may be a sign of warping.
Soft and crumbly material is a tell tale sign that structure has broken down. If you press in and get an indentation the damage has gone beyond simple cosmetic repair.
When Repair Is the Best Option
In many cases minor to moderate damage can be repaired without the need to replace the entire cabinet system. If the cabinet frame is still in good condition and the damage is to the surface or a small area which is affected, we may do very well with repair work.
Surface swelling, loose layers of laminate, or small rot areas can at time be dried, reinforced and refinished. At times professionals will use fillers, sealants or replacement panels to restore strength and appearance. Proper drying is key before any repair work is done to also avoid growth of hidden mold.
In large measure home owners choose to repair water damaged cabinets when the cabinet layout is still useful, the style is in keeping with the over all look of the home, and the damage is not extensive. Also it is a great option for custom built cabinetry which may be hard or very expensive to replace.
Situations That Require Replacement
Severe water damage which in turn water damaged cabinet repair we see very often. If the base is sagging, crumbling, or pulling away from the wall, usually replacement is the best option. Also note that mold infestation in the cabinet material is a issue which may make repair a impractical solution in large scale cases.
Particleboard cabinets in fact do very poorly once they become saturated which is a permanent issue. Once dried out they may not return to their original strength. As for cabinets which have been exposed to contaminated water, like in the case of a sewage backup, they should always be replaced for health issues.
Replacement is also a requirement when damage is to many cabinets, plumbing systems, or the floor below them. In which case do we put off full renovation by only attempting partial repairs.
Cost Considerations: Repair vs. Replacement.
Budget is a key factor in this decision. We see that repairs go much cheaper than the installation of new cabinets which is the case when only small scale damage is present. But in the case of very bad damage that which is extensive, repeated repairs may end up being as expensive as buying new.
Replacement also provides for great long term reliability and we see in modern cabinets an effort to include moisture resistant finishes and better construction which in turn does better at withstanding future exposure.
Home owners should also include in their budget for items like mold remediation, plumbing repairs, or removal of counters. A professional assessment will give you a better idea of the total investment.
Preventing Future Water Damage
Whether you renew or remodel your kitchen’s cabinets, it is key to protect your investment. Do a regular check up of plumbing connections, seal in any gaps around the sinks, and see to it that you have proper ventilation which in turn will reduce moisture buildup.
Installing spill sensors under the sink and using water proof linings in cabinets also helps. For new cabinetry we recommend using water resistant materials which add an extra level of defense.
Simple actions like avoiding large standing pools of water and fixing leaks right away will do much to extend the life of your cabinets.
Making the best choice for your home.
In each situation which is unique, factors like cabinet material, age, extent of damage and overall kitchen condition play a role in what the best approach will be. It is also best to consult a professional which in turn will bring to light hidden structural issues or mold problems.
At times it is best to take a hybrid approach which sees salvageable parts being repaired and more seriously damaged elements replaced. This is to preserve the integrity of the whole design while at the same time restore safety and functionality.
Conclusion
Deciding on repair or replacement is at large based on the degree of water damaged cabinet repair to the cabinet structure. For minor surface issues professional restoration is a common fix which makes for a very practical and economic solution in the case of water damaged cabinets. But should structural weakness, extensive rot or mold be present replacement is the better long term option. At the first sign of damage it is important to determine the cause and address it which in turn will protect your home, improve durability and see to it that your cabinetry is both functional and visually appealing for years to come.