How to Deal With Damaged Cabinets
Cabinets are an integral part of a home's storage system. High-quality cabinets look good, last longer, maximize space, provide ample storage, and keep the house organized and clutter-free. However, due to their repeated use, cabinets will look dull, worn-out, scratched, and damaged over time or become outdated.
Homeowners have several options for upgrading the cabinets to improve them functionally and aesthetically. But, before choosing the most suitable option, they need to identify the signs and extent of the damage.
Signs of damaged cabinets
Consider replacing, repairing, or updating the look of the cabinets on noticing issues like:
Swelling or fading
Metal part corrosion
Water damage causing the cabinets to warp, bubble, or peel
Mold
Failure to properly open and close
Broken, damaged, or worn-out cabinet boxes
Options to deal with damaged cabinets
There are several ways to fix cabinets when they deteriorate or get damaged. Let's look at a few of them:
Replacement
Replacement is the only option when cabinets are severely damaged and are beyond repair. Some reasons where cabinet replacement is inevitable include peeling external laminate, blackening wood, extensive water damage, poor functionality, mold, and the cabinet's structure is beyond repair. Replacing the cabinets is expensive. The cost usually depends on the style, wood type, design, and kitchen layout.
Most homeowners think that replacement is the only way to fix damaged cabinets. If the cabinets' structural integrity is not compromised, refinishing and refacing are the two options to give them a fresh, stylish, and improved appearance.
Refinishing
Cabinet refinishing means changing the color or finish of the existing cabinet material. Professionals add new paint or stain to the cabinet door and drawer faces after sanding or stripping the old finish and repairing any existing damages. It gives the cabinet an entirely new look. Refinish does not include changing the cabinet components.
Cabinet refinishing is more affordable and less disruptive than complete cabinet replacement or refacing. The time and effort required to refinish a cabinet depend on design complexity or the decision to paint or stain.
Choose to refinish to get a custom look and enjoy the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Refinishing is also less time-consuming and offers various options for homeowners to achieve a unique and impressive look. Proper upkeep will keep the cabinets looking great and last for several years.
Refacing
Cabinet refacing or resurfacing involves changing all the surfaces, doors, or drawer fronts visible when the cabinet is closed. The process usually includes replacing the cabinet hardware - handles, drawer pulls, knobs, and hinges. Cabinet refacing is cost-efficient and less invasive than replacement. It is an environmentally-friendly process and has a quick turnaround time. Refacing the cabinets offers countless style options to give the rooms a facelift. The cabinets look new-like and add value to the home.
Homeowners can choose to reface if refinishing is not an option due to the material, the existing finish is coming off, the cabinet hinges need an update, and to increase the cabinet life expectancy.
Update the cabinets
Contact a professional if the kitchen, bathroom, or other cabinets in the home are damaged and can benefit from an upgrade. A pro will carefully examine the cabinets to suggest the most appropriate option to revamp their appearance.
The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.