Living in Fort Lauderdale means embracing sun, salt air, and sea breezes — but it also means dealing with year-round humidity. And while that tropical climate is part of South Florida’s charm, it can take a toll on certain home finishes — including cabinetry.
At Italvave, we design custom kitchen cabinets that are not only beautiful and functional but also built to withstand the unique conditions of coastal living. As a Fort Lauderdale cabinet maker, we know what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to long-term durability in a humid environment.
Here’s how to maintain the look and integrity of your high quality cabinets — and protect your investment for years to come.
1. Choose the Right Materials Up Front
Maintenance starts with smart material selection. That’s why we build with moisture-resistant core panels, durable veneers, and eco-friendly finishes that perform in Florida’s humidity.
At Italvave, we offer options like:
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Thermo-structured panels (TSS) – durable and water-resistant
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Eco-veneers – wood-like finishes with added moisture resilience
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Lacquered MDF – smooth, sealed, and easy to clean
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UV-cured paints – strong resistance to warping and discoloration
Want to know which material is best for your home? Start your custom kitchen cabinet quote here and we’ll guide you through the options that hold up in Fort Lauderdale’s climate.
2. Use the Right Cleaning Products
Using harsh or abrasive cleaners can break down finishes and sealants over time. To keep your cabinets looking pristine:
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Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth
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Use a mild dish soap and warm water solution
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Avoid bleach, ammonia, or silicone-based sprays
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Dry immediately after cleaning to avoid moisture buildup
For hardware like Gola handles, Blum hinges, or Richelieu accessories, we recommend occasional gentle wiping to remove oils or buildup that can interfere with smooth function.
3. Keep Humidity in Check
Even the best-built cabinets can suffer if your kitchen air stays damp. A few simple steps can make a big difference:
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Install a high-quality range hood that vents outside
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Use a dehumidifier during the rainy season
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Keep air circulating with ceiling fans or open windows when possible
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Avoid hanging damp towels inside cabinets or pantry spaces
In especially tight kitchens, we recommend vented kickboards or small cabinet grilles to promote airflow inside lower cabinetry.
4. Watch for Early Warning Signs
Humidity damage often starts subtly. Keep an eye out for:
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Doors or drawer fronts that start to warp or bow
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Peeling, bubbling, or sticky finishes
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Soft spots in wood components
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Stiff hinges or drawer glides
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait — reach out to us for a quick assessment. Because we’re local to Fort Lauderdale, we can help troubleshoot and resolve problems fast.
5. Maintain Your Hardware
Even premium brands like Blum and Richelieu benefit from regular checks. To keep your drawers and hinges in top shape:
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Tighten any loose screws every 6–12 months
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Check for slow-close or lift system resistance and adjust if needed
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Lubricate moving parts with a silicone-safe lubricant (if recommended by the brand)
One of the benefits of working with a local cabinet maker like Italvave is access to long-term support. If your hardware ever needs replacement or adjustment, just contact us here.
6. Protect Surfaces From Heat and Moisture
Hot appliances, steam, and spills can slowly degrade finishes. Follow these tips to keep your cabinets looking brand new:
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Use cabinet liners inside sink base cabinets
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Place heat shields near ovens or dishwashers
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Never place a hot pot directly against a cabinet door
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Wipe up spills immediately — especially near seams or cutouts
Custom cabinets are a long-term investment — a little preventative care goes a long way.
7. Refinish or Touch Up When Needed
Cabinets that are exposed to constant sun, salt, or use may eventually show signs of wear. Fortunately, many of our eco-friendly finishes can be touched up or refinished without replacing the entire unit.
We can help you source matching paint, veneer, or replacement fronts if needed — another benefit of working with a custom cabinet partner rather than a big-box brand.
Custom Cabinets That Last in Fort Lauderdale
At Italvave, we’re proud to design and manufacture high quality, custom kitchen cabinets that are as durable as they are beautiful. With premium hardware from Blum, Gola, and Richelieu, along with resilient, eco-friendly materials, our cabinets are built to thrive in South Florida homes.
Whether you're building from scratch or giving your kitchen a fresh look, we’ll help you choose the right materials — and show you how to care for them so they last.
🔹 Start your project today by submitting your measurements
🔹 Or visit our Fort Lauderdale showroom to meet our team and see material samples in person
We're here to make sure your custom kitchen not only looks stunning — but stays that way for years to come.
