How Long do Kitchen Cabinets Last?

Wondering how long do kitchen cabinets last? High-quality kitchen cabinets can last up to 50 years approximately if taken care of. Sounds impossible, isn’t it? However, they can really last that long. The life span of cabinets depend on how often you use and maintain them. The durability also depends on the kind of material used to build the cabinets.

However, this doesn’t mean that your cabinets will never have any issues during this period. Sooner or later, you might have to consider getting replacements or minor repairs to keep their functionality intact. Some problems might not be too evident, and so they’ll require expert supervision. Let’s check out what you need to know about the maintenance of your kitchen cabinets.

Signs that Your Kitchen Cabinets Need to be Replaced

If you’re wondering how to tell if your cabinets need refinishing, here are a few ways to detect the signs.

Water Leakage or Damage

Some of the telltale signs of water leakage in your cabinets are dark color spots, swollen surface areas, creaky doors, warped wood, peeling laminate, etc. If you notice bubbles inside or outside the cabinet, that also means that there’s a leak somewhere.

This is especially prevalent in wooden cabinets as wood is highly susceptible to water damage.

The first step to dealing with water leakage is to locate the source. Once you’ve found the source of the leak, you need to make sure it’s sealed or redirected. After redirecting or fixing the leak, soak the remaining water until the surface is completely dry. You may then decide whether the cabinet needs any other repairs.

Due to swelling or peeling, certain parts might require alterations. For stains, you might have to bleach the surface which will cost around $1500 to $5000, depending on the size, number, and material of your cabinets.

It’s recommended that you hire an experienced contractor for cabinet refinishing and consult them regarding all the necessary repairs. If a repair isn’t going to deliver the expected results, it’s better to get the cabinet replaced.

Mold or Rot

After years of usage or sometimes due to lack of maintenance, it is common for mold to develop inside your cabinets. Before refacing your cabinets, check the wall attachments and cabinet doors. Any sign of dampness, bad smell, or soft walls indicates that your cabinets need to be removed entirely.

There is no point in repairing a rotten cabinet as the core will be damaged.

To avoid such mishaps, inspect your cabinets on a regular basis and keep them adequately dry. Persistent water damage will cause your cabinets to fall apart completely, making you spend a fortune on getting a brand-new installation.

Kitchen Remodeling

If you’re remodeling your kitchen and want to change the layout of the room entirely, you’ll need to get fresh cabinets. To save money, you might consider repurposing your existing cabinets.

But it might not be the best idea if the old cabinets do not match the new layout of your kitchen. You may discuss the pros and cons with the contractor or architect and make your decision.

Poor Functionality

One of the key roles of your cabinets is their functionality. If you find that they are not highly functional as per your needs, it’s time you get your cabinet replaced.

Possible signs could be stuck drawers, creaky doors, lack of accessibility, etc. However, this problem could arise due to folly in the design and not maintenance. Either way, you might want to consult a contractor to figure out a feasible solution.

How to Maintain Cabinets

Here are the tips for maintaining cabinets:

• Inspect your cabinets regularly and clean them occasionally.
• Use soap and water to gently scrub the surface, removing dirt and mildew.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water to ensure no soap or foam is left behind.
• Pat the cabinets dry with a clean, dry cloth to avoid dampness and prevent mildew.
• Regular cleaning prevents stains and saves money on bleaching treatments.
• Store sharp objects carefully, using covers for knives and forks to prevent scratches.
• Refacing or refinishing your cabinets periodically can improve their look and functionality.

Common Questions

1. How long do kitchen cabinets typically last?

High-quality kitchen cabinets can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan depends on the material used and how frequently they are used and maintained.

2. What are the signs that my kitchen cabinets need to be replaced?

Signs that your cabinets may need replacement include water damage (swollen areas, dark spots, peeling), mold or rot, poor functionality (stuck drawers, creaky doors), or if they no longer fit the layout during a kitchen remodel.

3. How can I maintain my kitchen cabinets to extend their lifespan?

Regularly clean cabinets with soap and water, keep them dry to prevent mold, avoid placing sharp objects that can cause scratches, and consider refacing or refinishing them periodically for improved look and functionality.