How to Inspect Kitchen Cabinets and Drawers

When you consider buying, selling or renovating a house, it’s important to think about the condition of the kitchen cabinets and drawers. This part of a home may last as many as five decades, according to This Old House. However, the lifespan varies depending on quality and maintenance. To determine if a set of kitchen cabinets will need replacement or repair soon, answer the following questions:

Part One

1. Pull out each drawer as far as it will go; does it fall out or become stuck?

2. Are there major cracks or holes?

3. Do you notice soft, moist wood or other indications of water damage?4. Are any hinges loose? They might only need tightening, but the screw holes could be stripped.

4. Do they exhibit signs of mold or pests? Rodents have been known to chew holes inside of cabinets.

5. Has the surface material started to peel or flake?

6. Do you see any large stains or smell an unpleasant odor?

Part Two

1. Do the doors close securely? It’s best if they have latches, magnets or self-closing hinges.

2. Are all of the metal hinges intact?

3. Do the hinges, screws, handles and drawer tracks remain free of rust?

4. Were the shelves installed securely?

5. Can they support heavy objects without any problems?

6. Thoroughly test the drawers; do they open and slide smoothly?

If you answered “yes” to any questions in part one or “no” in part two, the kitchen cabinets and drawers probably need work. You may only have to tighten a few screws to fix minor problems. Other defects demand new wood, tracks, paint or closing mechanisms. When you find numerous flaws, it could make sense to completely replace the cabinets and drawers. Either way, please contact us if you need help from an experienced professional.