Where moisture comes from
Homes near the Palar river, lakes and paddy land carry more moisture in the air, and the northeast monsoon brings weeks of high humidity. Kitchens add steam, and wardrobes along external walls can pick up condensation or seepage.
What goes wrong with ordinary board
Cheaper boards absorb moisture through cut edges and screw holes. They swell, the laminate lifts at the edges, hinges loosen and the carcase can sag. Once swollen, board does not return to its original shape.
Specify the right plywood
Boiling-water-proof marine plywood (IS:710) is made with water-resistant glue and is the safer choice for kitchen carcases, sink bases and wardrobes along external walls. Read the comparison in our plywood guide.
Seal every edge
Moisture enters through cut edges. Machine-applied edge banding with a proper adhesive, and sealing of cut-outs for sink, hob and cables, make a bigger difference than most buyers expect.
Keep air moving
- Leave small ventilation gaps at the back of wardrobes on external walls.
- Use silica gel or camphor in closed storage during the monsoon.
- Fix seepage before fitting any wardrobe or false ceiling.
- Run the chimney while cooking and wipe condensation from shutters.
Choose finishes for easy cleaning
Laminate and acrylic surfaces wipe clean; see our kitchen care guide. Avoid soaking shutters or using harsh chemicals.
For older houses
Older masonry may hold damp. Test walls and the slab, repair seepage and let walls dry before fixing furniture. We check this at the site visit and say so if work should wait.