Figuring out how to repair water damaged kitchen cabinets after they get soaked may be a problem to some. Kitchens, especially those located under or beside refrigerators and other appliances, endure a great deal of stress due to their manufactured materials. Just like you, we know a lot of people are wondering how.
Even with a tiny amount, water will cause their coats to enlarge, fracture, or even break apart. While moisture in the air and water from your sink is capable of causing water-damaged cabinets, the extent of the damage depends on other factors.
Water damage requires special cabinet drying techniques, and you cannot save all cabinets at a reasonable cost. Cabinet fixing can be severe enough to require a whole cabinet replacement if the material is delicate, such as plywood. Additionally, due to the cabinets’ water damage, the laminated surface would most likely pop off altogether.
In this article, we are here to help you on how to repair water damaged kitchen cabinets.
How To Fix Water Damaged Cabinets
Step #1. Remove all items on the cabinet
Make sure to check your cabinets are ready before you begin the project. The cabinet door should be taken off its hinges and placed on a secure surface from paint and tools. If you’ve got old clutter in your cabinets, start with it first.
Glass or plastic containers are acceptable for storing food items, but toss away those in a box or bag. The textiles and towels must be washed, as well as all disposable items like paper towels.
Step #2. Measure the level of damage
To get an accurate estimate of the amount of time and resources it will take to fix the cabinet, it is usually a good idea to assess the damage. It will also enable you to be in a fully relaxed state of mind.
If the water damage was caused by a sudden burst of water, and you responded quickly, then you can be confident that simply repainting is required. To properly restore the cabinet, you must persistently fix the water damage by giving a few minutes of your time.
Step #3. Dry the insides
As you now realize the full extent of the structural damage, it is time to start planning the steps to bring the structure back to its former condition. Allow the moisture to dissipate before proceeding.
When the cabinet is completely dry, you will have a better chance of assessing the damage and gathering needed materials. It’s a good idea to keep woodworking glue, clamps, and screws in your toolbox.
Step #4. Apply a primer
Most hardware stores have shellac-based primers. It helps restore tiny flaws and other damage on wood furniture, including wooden cabinets.
This primer typically comes in a spray bottle, making it easy to apply to damaged areas. Spray one to two coats of primer over damaged areas to help smooth the cabinet door’s surface.
Step #5. Sand the cabinet
Use finer sandpaper to refinish the paint when it has dried. To make the paint look smoother, the wood is reshaped or flattened. Sanding the cabinet door will also create microscopic grooves and holes in the surface, supporting future paint coats in sticking and applying correctly.
Step #6. Repeat the process
Paint the cabinet one more time, let it set, and sand it down again with fine 220-grit sandpaper. Depending on the condition of the cabinet door, this procedure may need to be repeated.
Paint peeling or water damage should be invisible by now. With a new cabinet door, your repair job is nearly complete.
How to protect kitchen cabinets from water?
To make your cabinets easier to keep clean, you can laminate them. Cabinetry jobs include putting a water-resistant, smooth finish to the exterior of cabinets.
It’s a good idea to laminate cabinets to protect them and give them a new look. However, the laminate isn’t waterproof.
You can also try something waterproof like a clear coat or varnish. By applying this strategy, even if the cabinets are created with lesser wood, there will be no water absorption. Many formulae of waterproof, transparent, and sealing varnishes are available.
Do homeowners’ insurance cover kitchen cabinets?
Your deductible for your home’s insurance makes it nearly impossible for you to receive all of the repair costs for your kitchen floor. Your insurance coverage should cover any damages caused by a pipe freezing or because of water leaking in through a roof.
Regardless of who claims responsibility, the insurance company views its commitment to making the homeowner whole again as having been completed, as stated in the insurance agreement.
Conclusion
Damaged kitchen cabinets may negatively affect your kitchen. The longer the harm is left unattended, the more likely it is that it will get worse. Knowing the appropriate steps on how to repair water damaged kitchen cabinets can help you improve your cabinet as quickly as possible.
The length of time required in repairing will depend on various factors, including the amount of damage, the paint used, and the tools utilized.