Effects of Moisture in Cabinets

 

Any solid wood, or wood components, will expand or contract with changing moisture and climate conditions. All wood when exposed to air will release or pick up moisture until it is in equilibrium with the humidity and temperature of the climate. (Picture a kitchen sponge that swells as it absorbs water and then dries out again.)

 

Humid Climates

Wood products located in humid climates (such as coastal communities) are especially susceptible to expansion. As humidity levels increase wood products will expand due to extra moisture in the air. 

 

Dry Climates

In low humidity conditions (such as well air conditioned homes), wood will release moisture and shrink or contract in size. In a dry climate, (or in a home that does not have a humidifier in the winter months) wood will shrink, exposing gaps at the joints where wood is trying to contract. This may result in the appearance of an unfinished line along the center panel. Cabinet manufacturers do not consider this a defect and will not replace doors due to this situation.

 

As wood expands or contracts due to moisture content, it does not shrink or swell equally in all directions. Note that just because wood is finished with a stain and topcoat, it is not immune to moisture. Cabinets will still take in moisture through contact with liquid or absorption from the air.

 

 

Preventing Humidity Problems

 

Air conditioning, dehumidifiers and humidifiers can help maintain satisfactory levels of moisture in a home. Using a hygrometer will make it easy to check the humidity level. (Hygrometers can be purchased at a hardware store.) The recommended range is  between 35% and 45% humidity.

 

The density of wood affects how much, or how little, wood expands or contracts. Some door styles may be better suited for homes that are located in areas that are more susceptible to humidity issues. Vacation homes should maintain climate control when not in use. In an uncontrolled environment, wood is a dimensionally unstable material.

 

Cabinet warranties are written with the expectation that cabinets will be stored and installed in a climate controlled environment. Warranties will be void if cabinets are stored or installed in buildings with extreme temperatures or humidity levels.