KITCHENS
Stone surfaces
Stone surfaces become more vulnerable in winter. If a hot pot is placed directly onto the surface in cold ambient temperatures, there is a greater chance of putting the material into thermal shock, which may cause cracking. If you have natural stone that has not recently been sealed, the winter moisture can be absorbed, making it more porous and therefore more susceptible to staining.
In general, homeowners need to be aware of the relationship between the warm moist air inside the kitchen when cooking and the cold of the exterior walls and floors. This can lead to moisture developing inside and behind cabinets, which can result in mould, rusting of hardware, and delamination of board products. Ensuring good extraction and / or ventilation will help.
Winter doesn’ t damage kitchens on its own – unmanaged moisture does.
KSA’ s advice
• Use extraction fans consistently in winter or ensure good ventilation in the home.
• Wipe down condensation.
• Fix leaks immediately( even the small ones).
• Don’ t ignore swelling doors or drawers.
• When designing and manufacturing kitchens, be sure to allow for movement rather than perfection. Materials expand and contract, especially in winter conditions.
• Seal everything – especially what“ won’ t be seen”.
• Avoid doing installations in damp environments.
This does not mean you should be worried about installing or manufacturing a kitchen or cabinetry in winter. It is often a good time as the industry is quieter. You may have a team on site that is focused and less stressed.
Remember, winter doesn’ t damage kitchens on its own – unmanaged moisture does. The combination of humidity, poor ventilation, and temperature differences creates slow, compounding stress on materials. If these are well managed in manufacturing, installation, and daily use, you will be fine.
About the writer
Stephanie Forbes is the National Manager of the Kitchen Specialists Association( KSA, www. ksa. co. za). The KSA is a consumer trade body in South Africa that caters to kitchen manufacturers and designers, kitchen industry suppliers, consumers, and built environment professionals.
Operating for over 20 years, it has been invaluable to both specialists and members as well as their clients in making solid dependable and quality connections with vetted contractors and designers, including offering an advisory, mediation and complaints service.
Email Stephanie at capetown @ ksa. co. za
98 winter 2026 | www. tobuild. co. za