Replies

1. 
   calvin | Feb 02, 2011 05:37am | #1

   Not usual..........

   but certainly possible.

   If the cab parts are not prestained, then shrinkage can cause panels to show no color.  Low humidity in the home might shrink the panels enough to show unstained wood.

   Lack of 'spaceballs", small rubber bb's that cushion movement, yet hold the panels firm might do the same.  Not all cab door construction use these 'shims".

   For you problem, remove the door and provide a solid yet "soft" cushion to adjust the door panel.   Evenly tap the bottom of the door on this hard (yet forgiving surface). (you can use cardboard).  You are going to drive the panel down into the frame of the door.  Once centered, the stain line will be buried.

   What is the humidity in the house?   Should be around 35% to keep furniture semi stable.

1. 
   geoman | Feb 15, 2011 09:43am | #8

   Hi Calvin,

   Thanks for taking the time to respond.

2. 
   [email protected] | Feb 02, 2011 07:04pm | #2

   It is caused by seasonal shrinkage

   The solid wood panel has shrunk from the seasonal humidity changes.  

   My guess is that the door was assembled, and then spray finished.  With the color integrated into the finish. 

   The "right" way to finish them is to stain first, and then assemble. 

   But, I'm not sure if there is a standard that requires it.  I certainly wouldn't by custom cabinets from the individual again, or recommend them to anyone. 

1. 
   gfretwell | Feb 04, 2011 12:39am | #3

   "The "right" way to finish

   "The "right" way to finish them is to stain first, and then assemble."

   Thanks Jigs, I am getting ready to start my raised panel door project and this is good to know.

3. 
   arthur1111 | Feb 04, 2011 04:03am | #4

   It is common and not defective...

   Most kitchen shops now a days order their doors from a door manufacturer, as such it is not possible to stain the doors before assembly.  It is a common issue with this type of doors, just look at any antique furniture. In my opinion a touch-up is in order, and thats it.  The doors will stabilize after a season or two and shouldn't shrink as much with each cycle.  

4. 
   Mongo | Feb 06, 2011 12:14am | #5

   normal?

   It does appear to be normal. I read their installation instructions and it does say on page 5 that:

   3) For a few months out of the year your custom cabinet doors will look like garbage due to our inferior construction and finishing practices. This is perfectly normal and will go away when humid weather returns.

   I'd take a small artists paint brush and touch the panty lines up a bit to at least get it close.

1. 
   arthur1111 | Feb 06, 2011 04:23am | #6

   It all comes down to the Price....

   It all comes down to the Price paid.... Can other kitchen shops make better doors? I am sure they can.  Can other kitchen shops make better doors for the same price? That should be the question. 

5. 
   junkhound | Feb 06, 2011 06:25am | #7

   they said it was normal

   only by incompetents, better to DIY than buy something like that..

1. 
   geoman | Feb 15, 2011 09:48am | #9

   Thanks to ALL

    ...for taking the time to respond to my post.  The cabinet maker is going to send a repair individual to stain the exposed wood on the raised panel.  And refasten loose shoe molding around a peninsula.