See some of our frequently asked questions and answers below.
How long does it take to complete the process?
The time needed to produce new cabinets for your project varies greatly based on the amount of work that needs to be done. If you are working with a General Contractor/Builder and it is new construction or a remodel project, the schedule is usually controlled by the Contractor. However, when it comes to ordering or building new cabinets the following timeline is a typical case scenario.
6-8 weeks – cabinetry completion
Lilienthal requires all final measurements, cabinet style, accessories, and color choices one month (30 days) prior to building or ordering your cabinets. Once we have this information the 6-8-week timeline will begin. In most cases, it will be delivered to your home within a six (6) week period however, if changes or modification are needed the delivery time may be extended to accommodate the customer.
1-2 weeks installation
The amount of time necessary to install your cabinets can vary if the intended area for install is not free of all debris prior to installation. Lilienthal Cabinets will work with both you and your Contractor to ensure that all areas are ready for install to meet the timeline.
What if there is a problem?
If you are unhappy with your cabinets due to a manufacturing defect, ordering error, or damage during shipment, Liliienthal Cabinets will support you. Lilienthal Cabinets is proud of the workmanship and professionalism displayed by its installers and sales professionals. If we have to re-order or modify any cabinets, it usually takes about two (2) weeks or less so your project isn’t slowed down.
How do I care for and clean my cabinetry?
Immediately after install of your new cabinetry we recommend the following:
- Clean cabinets by using a soft lint free cloth with a mild detergent. This is usually sufficient to clean your cabinets. Dry well using a lint-free cloth. Use the mildest cleaning solution that will successfully clean your cabinets. Stronger products my damage or discolor the cabinet finish and are not recommended.
Periodic Cleaning Recommendations: - If more thorough cleaning is required, use a solution of dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water. Make sure it does not contain ammonia or silicon. Always use the mildest cleaning solution that will successfully clean your cabinets. Stronger products may damage or discolor your cabinet finish and are not recommended. After cleaning, wipe all surfaces with a clean, damp, lint free cloth. To complete the drying of your cabinets – wipe again with a clean lint free cloth.
- Wipe up spills, splatters and water spots as they occur, keeping cabinets and countertop surfaces dry.
- Give special attention to areas near the sink and dishwasher that come in contact with moisture
- Use cleaners and polishes designed for wood cabinets and clean all surfaces as needed. If you choose a cleaner designated for wood cabinetry we recommend that you dilute it so the solution is as mild a possible. The old saying “less” is “more” is a good rule to follow.
Cleaning Products to Avoid:
Avoid using the following cleaning products on your cabinets:
- Harsh Chemicals
- Abrasive cleaning products such as tub and sink cleaners, scouring powder, scouring pads or steel wool.
- Sponges or dish clothes, They may contain particles that could scratch your cabinets, or they may contain food and oil residue.
- Solvent-based or petroleum-based products such as mineral spirits, nail polish removers or paint thinners.
- Ammonia or cleaning products that include bleach
- Silicone-based cleaning, waxing, or polishing products.
Regular Dusting:
Use a clean, soft, lint free, cotton cloth for dusting. Do not use any type of aerosol dusting product that has wax in it. There are a few products on the market that we do recommend that come in a spray formula. Your Lilienthal sales person will be happy to educate you on these options.
Waxing and Polishing:
Waxing is NOT recommended. Over time, waxing may build up the surface of your cabinets and cause a hazy, streaky or yellowed appearance. This wax build up is very difficult to remove.
Cleaning Glass Doors:
Use an ammonia-free glass cleaner on a clean, soft, cloth or paper towel. Do no spray cleaner directly on the glass. It could seep behind the window divider and cause damage.
Household Humidity:
The natural process of expansion and contraction occurring in wood kitchen cabinets is a topic that is often overlooked. Wood of all species is subject to the humidity and temperature of its environment. It will lose or gain moisture and consequently shrink or swell depending on the environment. As humidity increases the moisture content increases, and wood expands. As humidity decreases, the moisture content decreases, and the wood will shrink.
The ideal relative humidity for health and comfort is about 40-50%. In the winter months, it may have to be lower than 40% RH to avoid condensation on the windows. It will take several days to several weeks before the wood returns to normal after any correction in the environment.
Following these recommendations will arrest the effect of humidity on your cabinets; however, there is no process to prevent these effects entirely.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us and we would be happy to help you.