As a resident of Orlando or any other location in Central Florida, you are familiar with the climate issues you have to put up with: heat, humidity, and seasonal storms. When one talks of kitchen remodeling, these factors are significant to the performance of materials in the long run.
Florida, especially the central part of the region, experiences high humidity throughout the year. The result is intense heat and frequent rainfall. The Florida Climate Center reports the top recorded dew points of 55-60 and above in northern and southern Florida regions, respectively, which are due to the tropical climate.
The selection of materials should not be limited to style only, but should be a smart and climate-conscious choice that will safeguard your investment in a kitchen and make it look great for years. Remodeling contractors can help you choose the best quality materials. Let us, therefore, have a look at the widely used kitchen materials.
Besides making the right choices regarding the materials, it is also a good idea to add good ventilation systems. The right airflow can make the moisture accumulation easier and, as a result, avoid mold and mildew.
Material Considerations For Orlando Kitchens
The following are the most suitable materials for any Orlando Kitchen.
- Cabinetry
Traditional solid wood cabinetry is appealing and remains a popular choice. However, these are not ideal for a humid region like Orlando. Wood, when it comes into contact with humidity, expands and soon becomes damaged. As an alternative, you can prefer:
- Marine-grade Plywood
- High-Density Fiberboard (HDF)
- Thermopil Cabinets
- Countertops
The countertops in any kitchen are considered workhorses. Choose the ideal materials, as suggested by the top kitchen remodel services, that can endure heat, scratches, spills, and humidity.
The top choices remain:
| Material | Description |
| Quartz | Non-porous and engineered for durability and low maintenance. Resists heat, humidity, and spills. Use trivets for hot pans. |
| Granite | Durable natural stone, ideal for kitchens. Requires occasional sealing to protect against moisture penetration. |
| Stainless Steel | Industrial-grade surface, impervious to heat and humidity. Sleek, hygienic, and ideal for high-use kitchens. |
| Solid Surface (e.g., Corian) | Man-made and seamless. Resists water damage and mold, making it ideal for humid environments. |
- Kitchen Floor
The floor of your kitchen must be humidity-resistant and waterproof. You can go for the following materials:
| Material | Description |
| Porcelain or Ceramic Tile | Virtually impervious to water. Available in many styles and colors to match your kitchen’s interior design. |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) | Waterproof and mimics the look of hardwood. Comfortable underfoot and easy to install—great for humid environments. |
| Sealed Concrete | Durable, water-resistant, and mold-resistant. Offers a sleek, contemporary look suitable for modern kitchens. |
- Backsplashes
Your kitchen must have a backsplash. It is more than a kitchen design. A functional backsplash acts as a shield against steam, splashes, and high humidity. Ideal materials are:
| Material | Key Features |
| Glass Tile | Non-porous, easy to clean, reflects light, and adds brightness to the kitchen |
| Ceramic & Porcelain Tile | Classic, durable, and moisture-resistant |
| Stainless Steel Panels | Modern look, easy to wipe down, holds up well in hot, moist kitchen environments |
We suggest avoiding natural stone backsplashes as these require sealing and can stain over time.
- Appliances and Fixtures
You should carefully choose appliances and fixtures, especially in hot and humid climates like Central Florida.
- Anti-corrosion coated stainless steel appliances of high quality
- Energy Star appliances that emit less heat and cool your kitchen more
- The stainless steel, brushed nickel, or chrome finish for the cabinet handles, faucets, and hinges helps avoid rust.
- Paint and Wall Finishes
The painted surfaces in your kitchen must be tough, washable, and mold-resistant, especially in humid areas.
The best options are:
- Semi-gloss or Satin Finish
- Mold-Resistant Paint
- Tile or Panel Accents
- Ventilation
Even if ventilation is not a material per se, it remains crucial. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup, prevents mold, and helps your materials last longer.
Essentials include:
- Put in a good, ventilated range with a hole to the outside.
- You could introduce a ceiling fan or a dehumidifier to manage moisture.
- When possible, keep windows open so as to promote the circulation of air.
Final Thoughts
It is, therefore, necessary to select the most appropriate materials to be used in your kitchen to make sure that you can achieve efficiency, durability, and a pleasing interior surrounding.
We at Personal Touch Contracting LLC offer kitchen remodel services. If you have an outdated kitchen that no longer serves your purpose, we can help. Our general contractors in Orlando will guide you throughout the process. If you don’t have an idea to select the ideal kitchen materials, they can offer suggestions. Contact Personal Touch Contracting LLC for a free estimate.
Also, must read: Make Your Kitchen Functional With Professional Remodeling Services
FAQs
- Which are the most efficient materials to be used in cabinets in a humid climate?
Thermofoil cabinets, HDF, and marine plywood cabinets are weatherproof and prevent warping. These characteristics make them good choices of cabinet material in Orlando kitchens.
- Is it possible to use Quartz countertops in my kitchen?
Quartz is non-porous, humidity resistant, and requires little maintenance. Therefore, it can be an excellent option for any Orlando kitchen.
- Will wood flooring work in a humid kitchen?
Traditional hardwood is not ideal. Instead, use porcelain tile or waterproof luxury vinyl planks that mimic wood but resist moisture and warping.
- How do I keep mold and mildew out of my kitchen in a humid kitchen?
You can use mold-resistant paint. Building materials should be moisture-proof, and the kitchen should be well-ventilated. There also needs to be a range hood that could help reduce condensation and mold spreading.
- Are stainless steel appliances a good idea in Florida kitchens?
Stainless steel is non-heat and non-rust, yes. Make top-quality and anti-corrosive finishing to be resistant to humidity, so your appliances can last longer.
- Does floor tile keep cool during hot weather in Florida?
Yes, the porcelain and ceramic tiles remain cool even in high temperatures. Hence, these are comfortable and practical in the kitchens in the hot and humid weather of Orlando.
- Do I need to seal my kitchen counters in a wet kitchen?
Natural stones such as granite should be sealed in order to ward off moisture. Quartz and solid surfaces are non-porous. These do not require sealing and are low-maintenance surfaces.