How can I repair Thermofoil cabinets with water damage?

Hmr33541152
by Hmr33541152
It has raised edges on the four sides of the cabinet

  4 answers
  • AmAtHome AmAtHome on Jun 09, 2018

    If the laminate has cracked or lifted, it's likely the MDF interior has gotten wet. I have never had luck trying to "save" MDF once wet. You'll probably have to replace them. You could try a laminate repair kit, but I spent time and money trying to save a MDF stand and it still ended up with the MDF deteriorating further.

    • Hmr33541152 Hmr33541152 on Jun 09, 2018

      Thank you so much . IT is distressing because 3 of them did get wet over time and swelled. some of the cabinets are still lovely.

  • AmAtHome AmAtHome on Jun 09, 2018

    I can imagine, and hopefully you can find a good solution.

  • B. Enne B. Enne on Jun 10, 2018

    I have repaired mine in the past.

    If the MDF is intact and not overly damaged (huge bumps, big holes, corners missing), you can remove the thermofoil, prime your cupboard with high-adhesion primer and paint. Use a hair dryer to loosen it up to prevent damage underneath.

    You can sand slight MDF damage lightly with 200 or higher grit sandpaper (don't use a coarse one). You can even fill little dings with wood filler.

    It is worth trying, if you are planning on replacing the damaged parts anyway. I was told mine couldn't be repaired and tried it anyway. Now I see others who have done it all over the Internet. You really have nothing to lose at this point.

    BTW, you may be surprised at how nice the MDF is underneath. I had a door with such bad damage I was sure the whole thing was ruined, and it was in perfect shape under the thick vinyl.