Hardwood cabinet components like face frames, doors, and headers are made of a natural material — wood — which has great character and personality. But natural wood also has some inherent limitations that should be understood. This is true of all wood in the home: furniture, millwork and cabinetry.
Learn More
Unlike synthetic material, natural wood is not dimensionally stable, meaning it will expand and contract under certain conditions. Complicating matters further, wood does not expand and contract in a uniform way. It does so more across the grain than along the grain. It can even warp in extreme cases.
Things to Remember
By its nature, wood is “hygroscopic,” meaning it naturally absorbs and releases moisture in its environment. These changes in moisture content may result in dimensional changes that can happen gradually over time, or happen suddenly with seasonal changes or changes in humidity within the home. When these natural dimensional changes occur, joinery lines can appear that were not visible before. For instance: As wood swells and contracts due to seasonal humidity changes, a joint where a stile and rail meet can open up slightly, showing a line that was not previously visible. When exposed to drier air, door center panels will contract, exposing a visible line next to the stile until moisture is restored. These are inherent characteristics of wood, are not considered flaws, and are not covered under the Showplace warranty.
- The most important thing you can do is stabilize the humidity in the home. Heating systems dry out the air in the winter, causing wood to contract. Taking steps to maintain proper relative humidity year-round will keep your cabinetry more stable. We recommend 30% to 55% relative humidity.
- Air conditioning helps, as it removes some humidity from the air. But additional steps, like a dehumidifier, may still be needed in some locations and climates.
- Seasonal homes, especially those near water, should be heated and air conditioned, even when not in use. Maintain a reasonable interior temperature of 40 to 90 degrees F.
- If you want painted cabinetry and possible joint lines are a major issue to you, choose one of the Showplace MDF door styles.
- Consider one of our slab door styles with solid MDF cores and a veneered surface. They show no joints and are very stable.
- Our best recommendation is to accept wood for what it is, and look on dimensional changes as another aspect of the unique personality of a lovely, variable natural material.
How are Showplace Frameless Cabinets Made?
Have you ever wondered how Showplace cabinet doors are made? Or have you asked your dealer what materials are used? Read on to learn...
Choosing the Right Finish: Buff vs. Natural from Showplace Cabinetry
Are you tired of your kitchen's outdated cabinets but hesitant to invest in a full-scale renovation? Look no further than Showplace Renew for an...
Showplace Cabinetry Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence and Innovation Announcing a Major Plant Expansion
Showplace Cabinetry, a leader in the cabinetry industry, proudly announces the celebration of its 25th anniversary.
Introducing Vita: Showplace Unveils Newest Character Stain Inspired by Scandinavian Aesthetics
Showplace, a leading innovator in semi-custom cabinetry, proudly announces the launch of Vita, the latest addition to its distinguished line of Character Stains.
Showplace Renew: A Budget-Friendly Guide to Cabinet Refacing
Are you tired of your kitchen's outdated cabinets but hesitant to invest in a full-scale renovation? Look no further than Showplace Renew for an...
The Hottest Trends in Kitchen Cabinet Colors for 2024
In 2024, we're witnessing a refreshing departure from traditional neutrals as homeowners and designers embrace bold and innovative choices. Let's delve into the hottest...