What To Expect From Your Cabinetry
Wood is a natural material. As such, seasonal growth patterns and weather conditions contribute to the uniqueness of the grain and color in each piece of board cut from a tree. These conditions also add the swirls, burls, mineral streaking, fine pinholes, pitch pockets and color streaks that you find in the wood of all fine cabinetry and furniture. Later, as the wood is cut, sanded and rubbed with a finish, all of these features combine to give your cabinetry special character and a deep, rich patina.

Climate Control
Beware that wood cabinetry installed in certain climates will take on or lose moisture, causing swelling or shrinkage of the components. Doors will swell in humid environments, especially, but not limited to slab doors. Cabinetry installed in humid locations requires an air conditioned environment to mitigate this issue. For drier locations, or in winter where humidity is low, a humidifier should be run to maintain a moderate moisture level in the environment. While shrinkage will not generally be as significant as potential swelling, it does occur. Please note, changes due to climate conditions are not a quality issue, and are not covered by a warranty.

Because temperature, seasonal growth patterns and weather conditions are not the same in all parts of the country, different types of trees produce wood with different features.

A few simple preventative steps will keep your cabinetry looking good. These tips apply to most finished wood.

What To Use On Your Cabinets
Like any fine-quality surface, your cabinetry should be treated carefully and cleaned and maintained with quality materials.

• DO NOT allow water, chemicals (detergents, ammonia, vinegar, etc.) and hot or acid food spills to set on your cabinets. ALWAYS immediately wipe up spills as quickly as possible so they won't damage the wood.
• DO use a soft cloth. DO NOT USE coarse or abrasive cloths or materials as they may dull the finish or leave scratches that cannot be removed. DEFINITELY AVOID soap pads, scouring pads and brushes.
• DO use soapy water, a mild all purpose cleaner without ammonia, or an oil soap cleaner made especially for wood components. DO NOT USE ammonia, products that contain ammonia, strong solvent cleaners, mineral spirits, paint thinner or any other harsh cleaning chemicals.
• DO use a high quality polish that is especially formulated for fine furniture. DO NOT USE wax or a polish that contains silicone. Wax builds up on the surface and causes yellowing; silicones smudge and highlight fingerprints, and can be removed only with extreme measures.
• For melamine or thermofoil cabinetry, DO clean with a mild nonabrasive cleaner using a soft cloth. DO NOT USE ammonia or any type of abrasive cleaner or cloth.
• To remove grease buildup, a solution of equal parts vinegar and water is recommended. This solution will not leave a residue.
• In time, even with normal use, you will need to touch-up cabinetry. It is recommended ordering a touch-up kit when you order your cabinets and keeping it in a safe place for future needs.

Note:
Cabinetry has its own personality and character, as well as a richness and depth in its color and grain. You will be more likely to notice the variations in the grain and color of the cabinetry selected a natural or light finish. If the cabinetry is a darker color finish those variations will probably be less apparent.

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