Expert: Michael Hughes - 11/2/2008

Question
Our contractor recently put particle board cupboards in our unheated cottage.  We thought we were getting wood.  We live in Sudbury ON so the winters are very cold.  Will these cupboards warp in these conditions.  Will painting them help?  Will these cupboards last?  I would really appreciate your opinion since we have not yet paid the contractor.

Answer
I imagine the cabinets are MDF (medium density fiberboard). Most cabinets that are manufactured ( not semi custom or custom) are manufactured with a MDF cabinet box and a wood front.
These cabinets should be fine in any climate. If you have questions you should contact the cabinet manufacturer who can give you more specific information.
I hope this helps.
M Hughes