My Home Has Water Damage: Do I Have to Replace My Cabinets?

So your kitchen or bathroom cabinets have been exposed to water damage. Now you’re wondering: How much is this going to cost? Do I have to replace these cabinets? Can they be salvaged? We can answer your questions.

Assessing Water-Damaged Cabinets

Not all cabinets are affected by water damage the same. The following factors help determine whether they can be restored or if they must be replaced:

1. Material Type

Solid wood cabinets: This is your best bet in being able to rescue your cabinets. If the water is dried quickly (and properly) then there is a good chance the cabinets will not need to be pulled out. However, if you leave the water damage and don't handle it right away then the cabinets will drink up that moisture and it will cause warping and splitting.
Plywood cabinets: These are more water-resistant than particleboard made cabinets. They may be salvageable but would have to immediately be dried out.
MDF (medium-density fiberboard) or "particleboard" cabinets: This type of material will absorb water like Sponge Bob. These materials will swell, puff up, weaken and fall apart once soaked. If your cabinets are made of MDF you most likely will need to have them replaced.

2. Duration of Water Exposure

The longer your cabinets remain exposed to water and moisture, the worse the damage will be. Cabinets that were quickly dried within 24-48 hours stand a much better chance of being salvaged. However, the longer your cabinets are exposed to water the more issues you will have with damage and mold growth which will lead to a cabinet replacement.

3. Mold and Fungus Growth

Mold loves damp, dark areas—like the insides of water-damaged cabinets. If mold has started to grow, you will need to replace your cabinets, especially if the fungus spores have spread into the wood.

4. Structural Integrity

Check for signs of weakness, such as:

Warping or swelling
Soft or crumbling wood
Separation at the seams
Doors and drawers that no longer close

If your cabinets are buckling, soft to the touch or falling apart, they likely need to be replaced.

Can Water-Damaged Cabinets Be Saved?

If your cabinets are made of solid wood or plywood and were not sitting in water for an extended period, they may be salvageable. Here’s what to do:

Call First In Restoration so professionals can properly dry your space out.
Act Quickly – Remove standing water and dry your cabinets within 24 hours using fans and dehumidifiers.
Inspect for Damage – Look for warping, wetness, softness and mold
Disinfect Thoroughly – Use a mold-resistant cleaner to prevent fungal growth.

However, if structural integrity is compromised, replacement is the best option.

When to Replace Water-Damaged Cabinets

You’ll likely need to replace your water-damaged cabinets if:

They are made of particleboard and have become swollen or started to crumble.
Mold has developed inside or underneath the cabinets.
The structure is soft, warped or separating at the seams.
The cabinet doors and drawers no longer function properly.
You had a Category 3 flood. It is likely you will have to replace your cabinets regardless if it comes into contact with "Black Water". There are times we could salvage the cabinets, but it is rare.
If there is actual mold growth on the cabinets then it has to be removed and properly contained.

Trust First In Restoration for Water Damage

At First In Restoration, we specialize in water damage restoration. If your home has flooded, don’t wait—mold and structural damage can worsen quickly. Our team will assess your cabinets and determine the best course of action, whether it’s salvaging them or installing brand-new cabinetry.

Call us today at 470-748-0225, or visit our website: www.firstinrestoration.com

When disaster strikes, trust Georgia’s #1 water damage restoration company to restore your home the right way!