Is giving your kitchen a new look a priority this spring? There’s no need to get in over your head with a full kitchen remodel. Consider replacing your cabinets instead as they are one of the longest lasting components in any kitchen. However, there are things that can cause cabinets to wear and tear faster than normal, regardless of their original quality. We’ve outlined a few ways to tell if replacement is the answer.
Are your cabinets inexpensive? One way to tell is if they are made from particle board or a similar material. Sometimes it’s possible to reinforce the existing cabinet frame, but the truth of the matter is, you get what you pay for. With a weak, low-grade cabinet structure, you’ll be better off tearing them out completely and starting new. The upside to this is that you can select higher-grade cabinetry that will surely last for a number of years; leaving you with one less worry of having to replace them again.
Are your cabinets moldy? Believe it or not, mold loves cabinets - mostly because of the temperature and moisture they can hold. If you discover mold as it is just beginning to grow, you can certainly do a deep clean to prevent further growth. However, many times mold is overlooked or not noticed at all. If this is the case, it will only get worse and will deteriorate the quality of your cabinets. Moldy cabinets are typically the result of water leaks. Before replacing your entire cabinet setup, make sure you have identified and repaired any source of water leaks. Otherwise, you may find yourself going through yet another round of replacement.
Do your cabinets smell? It’s not uncommon for old cabinets to obtain a foul odor. If your cabinets start to smell musty, whether they are old or not, it’s time to replace them. Older cabinets are mostly made of wood, instead of particle board like some newer ones. Since wood is porous, it will directly absorb odors. Once your cabinets absorb an odor, it’s incredibly difficult to get rid of it. You’ll be better off saying goodbye to the lingering stench and simply replacing everything.
Are your cabinets soft? Try pushing on the sides of your cabinets. They should feel strong and sturdy as you put force on them. But if they feel soft and brittle, get rid of them! This is a definite indication that your cabinets are on their last leg and will soon fall apart. If the sides of your cabinetry aren’t solid, they can’t hold up to their job. The last thing you want is to have these structures come crashing down when they’re full of dishes. If they can’t hang tough, make the call to replace them altogether.
When it’s time to replace your kitchen cabinets, call Fischer Lumber. Our knowledgeable staff has the know-how, design skills, and expertise you need to get the job done right. Take on this project with confidence by letting Fischer Lumber handle the hard stuff. Stop by our warehouse and showroom at 210 N. Shamrock Street in E. Alton!