How Central Oregon’s Climate Affects Your Cabinetry
Central Oregon is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor lifestyle, and distinct climate. With warm, dry summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters, the region’s seasonal changes can have a significant impact on your home—including your cabinetry. At DL Drury Custom Woodworks, we’ve been crafting high-quality, handcrafted cabinets for years, and we know how to ensure your cabinetry stands up to the unique challenges of Central Oregon’s climate.
Temperature Fluctuations Can Cause Wood to Expand and Contract
Wood is a natural material that responds to temperature changes. In Central Oregon, the drastic shifts from hot summers to freezing winters can cause your cabinets to expand and contract. Over time, this movement can lead to small gaps, warping, or even cracks in the wood.
How to Protect Your Cabinets:
- Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, avoiding extreme highs and lows.
- Use a whole-home humidifier in winter to keep moisture levels balanced.
- Ensure proper cabinet construction—at DL Drury Custom Woodworks, we design cabinets with the natural movement of wood in mind, using techniques that minimize expansion-related issues.
Low Humidity Can Dry Out Your Wood Cabinets
Central Oregon’s dry climate, especially during the winter, can lead to a lack of moisture in the air. This dry air can cause wood to shrink, which may result in cracks or separation at the seams. Over time, excessive dryness can also cause finishes to dull or wear prematurely.
How to Protect Your Cabinets:
- Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent excessive drying.
- Use furniture polish or a conditioning oil designed for wood cabinets to maintain their moisture.
- Work with professionals like DL Drury Custom Woodworks, who use high-quality finishes that offer extra protection against dryness.
Sunlight Exposure Can Lead to Fading & Discoloration
Central Oregon gets plenty of sunshine, and while that’s great for outdoor adventures, direct sunlight can be harsh on wood cabinetry. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause wood finishes to fade, darken, or discolor unevenly.
How to Protect Your Cabinets:
- Install window coverings or UV-blocking window films to reduce direct sunlight exposure.
- Consider lighter stains or finishes that naturally resist fading.
- Rotate or reposition decorative items on cabinet surfaces periodically to prevent uneven discoloration.
Seasonal Moisture Can Lead to Warping or Mold Growth
While Central Oregon is generally dry, seasonal moisture—especially during winter or near kitchens and bathrooms—can lead to issues like wood warping or even mold growth in extreme cases. Areas near sinks and dishwashers are particularly vulnerable.
How to Protect Your Cabinets:
- Ensure proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce moisture buildup.
- Wipe up water spills immediately and avoid excessive exposure to steam.
- Choose moisture-resistant finishes and materials when selecting your custom cabinetry from DL Drury Custom Woodworks.
Why DL Drury Custom Woodworks is the Right Choice for Central Oregon Cabinetry
At DL Drury Custom Woodworks, we don’t just build cabinets—we craft them specifically for the unique conditions of Central Oregon. We source high-quality, durable wood and apply expert finishing techniques to ensure long-lasting beauty and functionality.
Here’s why our custom cabinets are built to last:
- Expert Wood Selection: We use only the best hardwoods suited for durability in fluctuating climates.
- High-Quality Finishes: Our professional-grade finishes protect against moisture, UV rays, and dryness.
- Precision Craftsmanship: Every cabinet is built with attention to detail, ensuring strength and longevity.
- Personalized Solutions: We design custom cabinetry that fits your home’s style while considering climate-related challenges.
Invest in Cabinets Designed for Central Oregon’s Climate
Your cabinetry is an investment in your home’s beauty and functionality. Understanding how Central Oregon’s climate affects your woodwork and taking proactive steps to protect it will help maintain its quality for years to come. By choosing DL Drury Custom Woodworks, you’re ensuring that your cabinets are designed with craftsmanship, durability, and climate resilience in mind.
Ready to upgrade your cabinetry?
Contact DL Drury Custom Woodworks today for expert advice and custom solutions tailored to your home. Let’s create cabinets that stand the test of time—no matter what the Central Oregon weather brings!
