Georgia and South Carolina Humidity and Your Kitchen Cabinets

Published October 14, 2026•5 min read

Wood takes on and releases moisture from the air, so wood cabinets swell slightly in humid weather and shrink in dry weather. In Georgia and South Carolina, long humid summers make that movement more noticeable: doors that rub, drawers that stick, or a fine line at painted door joints. Keeping indoor humidity in the range the manufacturer recommends prevents most of it.

Examples of published humidity guidance
Source	Recommended indoor relative humidity
Columbia Cabinets warranty	35-50%, with short swings to 30% and 55%
RTI Cabinets care guide	40-55%

Signs Humidity Is Affecting Cabinets

Doors that rub or no longer line up in summer
Drawers that stick, then free up in winter
Hairline lines at the joints of painted doors. See painted vs. stained cabinets.
Swelling or soft panels at the sink base, which usually points to a leak rather than air humidity

How to Protect Your Cabinets

Run the air conditioning in summer; it removes moisture as well as heat.
Use a range hood and bath fans that vent outside when cooking and showering.
Keep a hygrometer in the kitchen to see actual indoor humidity.
Wipe up water around the sink, dishwasher and stove promptly.
Fix leaks fast; water at the sink base damages boxes more than humid air does.

For Builders and Property Owners

Deliver cabinets once the house is dried in and conditioned, not into an open shell. See protecting cabinets on a job site.
Let cabinets acclimate in the conditioned space where the manufacturer recommends it.
In rentals and vacant homes, don't shut off the HVAC entirely between residents.
Choose stable box materials for sink bases. See plywood vs. particleboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What humidity is best for wood kitchen cabinets?

Manufacturers publish ranges such as 35-50% or 40-55% relative humidity. Check the care sheet for your cabinet line.

Why do my cabinet doors stick in summer?

Wood swells slightly as it absorbs moisture from humid air. Running the AC and venting kitchens and baths outside helps; persistent problems may need hinge adjustment.