Water damage is one of the most common issues affecting kitchen cabinets, especially in homes with aging plumbing or frequent leaks. Left unchecked, it can lead to warping, mold, rot, and costly cabinet replacements. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or property manager, catching these signs early can save you time and money.
Here’s how to identify the warning signs of water damage in your kitchen cabinets — and what to do next.
1. Warping or Swelling in the Wood
One of the first visible signs of water damage is swelling, especially at the cabinet base or near plumbing fixtures. Warped cabinet doors or drawers that no longer align properly are a red flag. These issues often show up around sinks, dishwashers, or refrigerators with water lines.
What to look for:
- Puffy, soft, or bubbled wood panels
- Difficulty opening or closing drawers
- Misaligned cabinet doors
2. Discoloration and Staining
Water leaves behind visible signs in the form of darkened wood, white spots, or even streaks. You may notice discoloration inside the cabinet base, near plumbing cutouts, or along seams.
Common signs:
- Dark stains along the bottom edge or interior shelving
- Yellowing or fading in certain spots
- Rust-colored streaks near metal hinges or fixtures
3. Musty Smell or Mold Growth
If your cabinets smell damp or musty, that’s a major indicator of water damage. Mold and mildew thrive in moist, enclosed spaces and can start to form in as little as 24–48 hours after exposure to moisture.
Check for:
- Earthy or musty odors
- Visible mold spots (black, green, or white)
- Respiratory irritation near the kitchen area
4. Peeling or Bubbling Finishes
Paint or laminate finishes will often peel, bubble, or flake when exposed to excess moisture. If your once-smooth cabinet surfaces are starting to degrade, moisture is likely the culprit.
Pay attention to:
- Cracked or flaking cabinet finishes
- Bubbles under veneer or laminate
- Loose or separating cabinet coverings
5. Soft or Spongy Cabinet Floors
If the bottom of your cabinet feels soft or unstable when pressed, you may have rot or water infiltration. This is especially common under sink bases where plumbing leaks occur.
Test by:
- Pressing gently on the base with your hand
- Listening for creaks or squishiness
- Looking underneath for water stains or sagging
What to Do If You Spot Water Damage
If you find any of these issues, don’t wait. Water damage spreads quickly and compromises the structural integrity of your cabinets. You have a few options:
- Minor damage: Consider drying the area, sanding, and resealing.
- Moderate damage: Refacing or replacing specific panels may work.
- Severe damage: Call a professional cabinet installer to assess full replacement.
At Kitchen Cabinets Installer, we work with homeowners and contractors across Utah and beyond to replace water-damaged cabinets with custom, high-quality installations. Our vetted pros can remove damaged cabinetry and install new systems built to last.
Get a Quote for Cabinet Repair or Replacement
Don’t let a small leak turn into a big project. Contact us today to get connected with a trusted cabinet installer in your area.