When Should I Replace My Kitchen Cabinets?

Our kitchens age even without us noticing it. Just like our gadgets and appliances, most of our kitchen tools and furniture can’t surpass the test of time. For example; our kitchen cabinets. So, how will you know if you already need a kitchen cabinet replacement? At Salisbury Home Renovations, we got you! Plot your ideas and we’ll turn that into reality.

Kitchen cabinets are an important component of any home. Getting replacements is a huge deal, but when it is time to go, it is time to go.  This is a huge decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If your cabinets were made from really nice wood, then they can last over a lifetime.  However, if they were just a cheap install, they could fall apart rather quickly. So, if you decide that you do need to replace your kitchen cabinets, keep that in mind.  The kitchen is full of water, oils, and greases that can land on the finish of the cabinets. If the finish isn’t done properly then the cabinets could absorb these things and leave stains or even ruin them. 

Some things to watch for is water damage.  Be sure that your cabinets are protected at all times from water damage.  This means that you might have to put on a layer or coating of oil from time to time.  This all depends on what type of wood and cabinets you have. If you do have water damage, you need to find the source of the water problem first.  Or replacing will only mean that the next set of cabinets will have water damage as well. Be sure that the source is resolved. Signs of water damage are:

• Cabinet finishes bubbling up.
• Signs of Mold in the cabinets.
• Cabinets seemed warps and are not opening or closing correctly.
• Wood has turned a black color.
• The outside is delaminating or warping.

The Cabinets are not functioning properly

The overall function of the cabinets is frustrating.  This means that the cabinets don’t function as you would like them too or expect.  There are many reasons for this, it could just be a preference. But, we use our kitchens differently and have different options than we ever did before.  And, perhaps its time for an upgrade.

Your kitchen cabinets have gone soft

After years of standing their ground with the steam and water that fill the air of a kitchen, they have gone soft.  Meaning that they are literally squishy. If the sides or shelves have gotten squishy, they are about to fall apart.  This is cause for sure to get new kitchen cabinets.

If your cabinets are not holding their shape, it might be time to look at new cabinets.  But, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes it is due to a contractor not thinking about the weight that a granite countertop would do to the cabinets. If your cabinets don’t see to have a nice square shape, this could be why.  And, maybe you just need some reinforcement done to them. This is something that is very important and should be done when countertops are replaced, but sometimes an inexperienced installer doesn’t think about it.

Kitchen Cabinet Replacement: Assessment

There are some options when your cabinets are in good working order, not damaged but just ugly.  Things such as a cabinet refacing could be a great option. Sometimes a total tear-out is needed and sometimes you just need to modernize the look. 

Now, check your cabinets for signs of aging. As mentioned earlier, it is not necessary to replace them instantly. You should know whether it is already a total mess, or if it just needs a touch of professional hands. With that being said, you can count on Salisbury Home Renovations for all your restoration needs.