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Moisture and Humidity Resistance of Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker Cabinets
When selecting cabinetry for a kitchen, bathroom, or any high-moisture area, one of the most important factors to consider is how well the cabinets hold up against moisture and humidity. Homeowners want cabinets that not only look beautiful but also maintain their integrity over time, even in challenging environments. The Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker collection is known for its timeless design, premium craftsmanship, and versatility—but how do these cabinets perform when exposed to moisture and humidity?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the materials, construction, finishes, and maintenance practices that impact the moisture resistance of Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets so you can make an informed decision for your home.
Understanding Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker Construction
The Lait Grey Shaker cabinets are part of Forevermark’s Platinum Collection and feature:
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Solid wood door frames for structural stability.
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Plywood cabinet boxes for strength and reduced risk of warping.
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High-quality veneers that are bonded and sealed for durability.
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Factory-applied finishes designed to withstand everyday kitchen use.
While these features provide a strong foundation for durability, it’s important to remember that wood-based materials are not completely impervious to moisture—proper care is essential.
How Moisture and Humidity Affect Cabinets
Moisture and humidity can impact cabinetry in several ways:
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Swelling and Warping – Wood can expand when exposed to high humidity.
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Finish Damage – Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause peeling or bubbling.
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Mold and Mildew Growth – Excess humidity can lead to hidden mold issues inside cabinets.
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Joint Separation – Repeated cycles of expansion and contraction can weaken joints over time.
Understanding these risks is the first step in protecting your Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets.
Moisture Resistance Features of Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker
Forevermark has taken steps to improve moisture and humidity resistance in their Lait Grey Shaker line:
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Plywood Box Construction – More stable than particleboard and less prone to swelling.
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Protective Finish Coating – The factory-applied finish seals the wood surface against incidental moisture.
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Dovetail Drawer Joints – Provide tighter connections that resist separation.
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Precision-Fit Doors and Drawers – Minimize gaps where moisture could enter.
These design elements help the cabinets maintain their appearance and functionality longer in humid environments.
Kitchens and Bathrooms – Different Humidity Challenges
Kitchens and bathrooms each present unique challenges for cabinetry:
In Kitchens:
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Steam from cooking can increase humidity.
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Spills from sinks or dishwashers may expose cabinets to standing water.
In Bathrooms:
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Hot showers create consistent high humidity.
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Water splashes from sinks or bathtubs can affect lower cabinet doors.
While the Lait Grey Shaker cabinets can work in both spaces, bathrooms require extra attention to ventilation and sealing.
Role of Finish in Moisture Resistance
The soft, neutral Lait Grey finish is not only visually appealing but also plays a role in moisture defense:
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Multiple Finish Layers – Adds durability and resistance to everyday splashes.
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UV-Cured Coating – Improves resistance to fading and surface wear.
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Smooth Surface – Easier to clean, reducing the chance of water stains and residue buildup.
However, even with these protections, prolonged direct exposure to water should be avoided.
Preventing Moisture Damage in Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker Cabinets
To maximize the lifespan of your cabinets in humid conditions:
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Ensure Proper Ventilation – Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
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Wipe Up Spills Promptly – Prevent water from soaking into joints or seams.
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Seal Cut Edges – Use silicone or edge banding for any modifications made during installation.
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Avoid Overloading Cabinets – Excess weight can weaken joints, making them more susceptible to humidity-related warping.
Comparing to Other Cabinet Materials
Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker (Wood + Plywood):
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Warmer, more premium look.
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Better resistance to swelling than particleboard.
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Requires proper care in high-moisture areas.
Laminate Cabinets:
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Highly moisture-resistant surface.
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Less premium appearance.
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Can chip or peel over time.
Metal Cabinets:
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Extremely moisture-resistant.
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Industrial look not suitable for all homes.
For homeowners seeking a balance of style and performance, Lait Grey Shaker offers the warmth of wood with improved stability.
Installation Considerations for Moisture-Prone Areas
If installing Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets in high-humidity environments:
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Install away from direct water sources if possible.
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Use moisture-resistant underlayment under sinks.
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Apply additional sealants in sink bases and around plumbing penetrations.
These small steps can greatly extend cabinet life.
Long-Term Performance in Humid Climates
In coastal regions or other humid climates, cabinets naturally face more environmental stress. While Lait Grey Shaker cabinets are not waterproof, their high-quality construction allows them to perform well with consistent maintenance. Homeowners in such areas may want to:
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Run a dehumidifier during peak humidity months.
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Inspect cabinet joints and finishes annually.
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Refresh sealants as needed.
The Aesthetic Advantage in Moisture-Prone Spaces
Even in spaces with high humidity, the Lait Grey Shaker style maintains its visual appeal. The soft grey hue is less likely to show minor water spots or streaks compared to darker finishes, making it easier to maintain a fresh look.
Pros and Cons of Moisture Resistance in Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker Cabinets
Pros:
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Durable plywood construction.
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Protective factory finish.
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Timeless style that hides minor wear well.
Cons:
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Not waterproof—needs proper care.
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Finish can be damaged by standing water over time.
Conclusion – Reliable with the Right Care
Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets are built to handle typical kitchen and bathroom humidity levels when properly maintained. Their plywood construction, protective finish, and precision craftsmanship provide a solid defense against moisture-related damage.
While they are not completely impervious to water, with preventive measures—like good ventilation, prompt spill cleanup, and strategic sealing—they can perform beautifully for many years in humid environments. For homeowners seeking cabinets that balance style, durability, and moisture resistance, Lait Grey Shaker remains an excellent choice.
FAQs
1. Are Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets waterproof?
No, they are moisture-resistant but not waterproof. They can handle normal humidity but should be protected from prolonged direct water exposure.
2. Can these cabinets be used in a bathroom?
Yes, with proper sealing and ventilation, they work well in bathrooms.
3. How can I protect my cabinets from humidity damage?
Use exhaust fans, wipe spills immediately, and seal any exposed edges.
4. Do they warp in coastal climates?
If properly maintained, they resist warping better than particleboard options, but extra care in high-humidity areas is advised.
5. Does the factory finish protect against moisture?
Yes, the multiple-layer finish helps resist moisture and wear, but it’s still best to avoid prolonged water contact.
Read: What hardware options are available for Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets?
Read: How do Forevermark Lait Grey Shaker cabinets compare in quality to other shaker cabinets?
