A common material choice for cupboards and open cabinetry, MDF is a durable and easily customizable fibreboard.

However, MDF’s resilience will falter against prolonged water exposure.

Let’s look at how you can repair your water damaged MDF cabinets.

Repairing MDF Water Damage

You will notice that your MDF cabinets have swelled and puckered as a result of the water damage. Therefore, the first challenge will be to smooth out these bumps.

Prep

If possible, unhinge or remove the damaged MDF cabinet door from the rest of the cabinetry. This will make the repair process easier, as you will be able to move around and manipulate the damaged section at will.

Primer

Next, add a shellac-based primary to the MDF. This will help cover minor signs of damage, as well as help paint stick later on.

Filler

The next action is to use plastic wood filler to seal up the damage. This step may not be necessary if the damage is minimal, but the filler is perfect for greater ridges and bumps. It’s recommended you use a putty knife to help with the application.

Take your time with this step. The smoother and more level the MDF looks at the end of the application, the better your finished product will be.

Sand

Now it’s time to get to sanding! Water damaged MDF is evident by its bubbles, so sanding it down so that the material is even and smooth is critical.

You can choose to do this step either by hand or with an electric sander. Selecting a medium-fine grit, around 100 or 120, is a safe bet.

Paint

Once your MDF feels flat and even, it’s time to paint.

This is often the final touch that helps cover any evidence of water damage. However, if you aren’t happy with the result once the paint dries, you’re can always sand and paint again, repeating the process until it looks how you want it to.

Repairing MDF water damage can be tricky, but have patience and best of luck! Soon your cabinets will be looking as good as new.

Handhills is a cabinet maker and manufacturer serving central Alberta. We specialize in custom cabinet design and installation, closet design, bathroom vanities, bookcases, custom entertainment centers, kitchen cabinets, shelving, MDF cabinet doors, cabinet parts and more. Send us your measurements and get started with custom cabinets from Handhills. Call the best cabinet maker in Calgary today on (403) 910‐2373 or send an email to [email protected].

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The idea of a kitchen remodel is both appealing and overwhelming. While you may want to spruce up your kitchen’s look, you probably are hesitant about the cost. Therefore, be prepared. Learn about how much a remodel will cost starting with the price of cabinets.

Your Overall Kitchen Layout Determines Your Cost

As with most things, the more you buy, the more you pay. By this logic, bigger kitchens will obviously cost more. However, good kitchen design can maximize the use of cabinets even in a small place. If you pick more effective layouts, then you may be able to squeeze in more cabinets. This will give your kitchen more functionality, but you should expect to pay for that utility.

The Type and Finish of the Cabinet Makes a Difference

There are many options for materials and styles. You have to pick between plywood and MDF cabinets doors in Calgary. Plywood is cheaper, but it is not as sturdy. Accordingly, MDF cabinets doors offer a better bang for your buck. Other options may be available in real wood, and the cost for those cabinets is even more pronounced. In addition to materials, the style of the cabinets impacts your cost. Simple shaker-style cabinets are cheaper than more intricate wood faces. Special finishes and stains also change your cost.

Getting Extra Flourishes Will Increase Your Cost and Value

In the past, cabinets were simple devices with shelves and doors. However, today, you can look at cabinets that do all sorts of special things. Your cabinets can have pull-out drawers or built-in spice racks. You can opt for soft-close MDF cabinets doors in Calgary or pan storage. While this newfound versatility is certainly appealing, you will need to make room in the budget for these upgrades.