With winter fast approaching, it’s important to think about how the cold season can affect your home’s interior, especially your cabinets. In Mississauga, where temperatures drop significantly, it’s necessary to take extra care of your cabinets to protect them from the harsh winter climate.
Let’s take a look at some of the best tips from the leading cabinet refinishers Mississauga, on how to maintain, protect, and improve your cabinets during the winter months.
Cabinet Refinishers Mississauga Stress on Maintaining Proper Humidity and Temperature
Managing indoor humidity and temperature levels during winter is essential for keeping your cabinets in good shape. The cold air outdoors is typically dry, and indoor heating systems can further reduce the moisture in the air, impacting your cabinets.
Tip: Use a Humidifier
Cabinet refinishing experts recommend maintaining humidity levels between 35% and 50% inside your home. Wood reacts to changes in moisture levels, and without proper humidity, your cabinets may shrink, crack, or warp. On the other hand, too much moisture can cause the wood to swell and damage the cabinet finish.
A humidifier helps regulate moisture in the air, preventing these issues. Investing in one can also save you from expensive repairs later, as it keeps your cabinets stable throughout the winter months.
Tip: Stabilize Indoor Temperatures
Consistent indoor temperature is equally important. Aim to keep your home between 18°C and 22°C. Fluctuating temperatures can cause the wood in your cabinets to expand and contract, leading to cracks or joint misalignment. Avoid these risks by setting your thermostat to a stable temperature.
Protect Cabinets from Direct Heat
Increased use of heating appliances during winter can expose your cabinets to excess heat. Wood and heat don’t mix well, as heat damages and dries out the wood over time.
Tip: Keep Cabinets Away from Heat Sources
Make sure your cabinets are placed away from heat vents, radiators, and other heating appliances. Cabinet refinishing experts advise that exposure to direct heat can weaken cabinet finishes, causing them to peel or degrade faster. Furthermore, you may need to install heat deflectors or shields to redirect hot air away from your cabinets.
In addition, if you have built-in cabinetry near a fireplace, make sure the area is properly insulated. This will protect the cabinets from excessive heat, which can lead to wood cracking or warping.
Clean and Dust Regularly
Dust and grime tend to pile up more in winter because windows are often closed, and the house stays sealed. Regular cleaning is important to maintain the look and longevity of your cabinets.
Tip: Use Gentle, Effective Cleaners
When cleaning your cabinets, avoid harsh chemical cleaners. These can damage the finish, leading to faster wear and tear. Instead, use a mild solution of soap and water with a soft cloth to wipe the cabinets. Always clean following the natural grain of the wood to preserve its texture and appearance.
Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth, especially in spots where grease and moisture can build up, like the kitchen. Dust and grime can cause small scratches over time, damaging the look of your cabinets. A regular cleaning routine will keep them looking new throughout the winter season.
Consider Winter Refinishing or Touch-Ups
Contrary to popular belief, winter is actually an excellent time for cabinet refinishing. Many homeowners delay such projects, thinking winter conditions aren’t suitable. However, lower humidity levels can make winter the perfect time for refinishing cabinets.
Tip: Opt for Winter Refinishing for Best Results
Winter’s lower humidity allows for better finish curing, leading to a smoother and more durable final result. If your cabinets are showing signs of wear—like scratches, chips, or faded finishes—consider refinishing them during winter. The dry air helps the finishes set appropriately, leading to long-lasting results.
If full refinishing is unnecessary, minor touch-ups can make a big difference. Moreover, professional cabinet refinishers Mississauga can color-match stains and finishes to blend smoothly with the existing wood. This can make your cabinets look refreshed and ready for the season without the need for a major renovation.
Lubricate Hinges and Drawer Slides
During winter, the metal parts of your cabinets, such as hinges and drawer slides, may stiffen due to the cold. This makes it harder to open or close cabinet doors and drawers, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to damage.
Tip: Apply Silicone-Based Lubricants
To keep your cabinets functioning smoothly, apply a silicone-based lubricant to hinges and drawer slides. This helps reduce friction and prevents further wear and tear. Wipe off the extra lubricant to prevent any dust buildup. Lubricating these parts once in a while will guarantee that your cabinet doors and drawers work effortlessly throughout winter.
Properly lubricated hinges and drawer slides will not only operate more smoothly but will also last longer. This simple maintenance task will preserve your cabinetry and prevent any annoying creaks or jams.
Inspect for Water Leaks and Moisture Damage
Snow and ice outside your home can create moisture risks indoors. Water leaks are a significant threat to wood cabinets, especially in winter. Moisture can seep into the wood, causing irreversible damage.
Tip: Perform Routine Inspections for Water Leaks
Regularly check the areas around your kitchen sink, dishwasher, and any plumbing near your cabinets for leaks. Even a minor leak can result in major problems if it goes unnoticed. Water damage can provoke the wood to swell, warp, or even rot, so addressing the leaks promptly is necessary.
Also, inspect the caulking around cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom. These areas are more prone to moisture exposure. Replace any damaged or worn-out caulking to prevent water from seeping into the wood.
Conclusion
Mississauga winters can be harsh on your cabinets, but listening to expert advice can keep them in excellent condition year-round. If you’re planning a full refinishing, doing minor touch-ups, or resealing your cabinets, winter offers the perfect conditions to get the job done. By following these tips from the top cabinet refinishers Mississauga, your cabinetry will remain beautiful, functional, and well-protected during the colder months.
Contact us to refresh or protect your cabinets this winter with the help of our experts!
