Cabinet-Painting Tips

When it comes to cabinet-painting, there are a few different approaches. Depending on your skill level, you may want to consider brush and roll techniques, which are considerably cheaper but require removing the cabinets. Painters will then carefully roll or brush the paint onto the cabinets. These techniques do not ensure a smooth finish, but they can produce excellent results. Read on to learn more about both methods and which one best fits your needs.

Cost of materials

Cabinet painting requires the use of paint and other paint supplies. Many professional painters warn against scrimping on the materials. A gallon of paint costs between $50 and $120. Professional painters typically recommend using two coats of paint and a good primer. You can also opt for oil-based primer, which costs around $30 per gallon. Oil-based paints have the added benefit of penetrating the wood and sealing nail heads and knots.

There are several different materials used for kitchen cabinets, and each type has its own unique requirements for painting. The cost of painting each type of cabinet varies accordingly. Particle board, MDF, plywood, metal, and wood veneer are the most common materials used for kitchen cabinets. You should ask your painter how much materials they use for each. It may be cheaper to buy the materials in bulk than to pay for them individually. In addition, a professional here painter will know the best products and techniques for painting cabinets.

Colors to choose

If you are about to paint your kitchen cabinets, here are some tips that will help you decide on a color for them. Warm colors, such as taupe, are easier to maintain than colder ones. Also, warm colors don’t hide dirt as well as dark ones, so they are more easily cleanable. Choose the right color for your kitchen cabinetry by considering its orientation. Bright, bold colors will make the cabinets difficult to see in the sun.

Neutrals are timeless and versatile colors. White and olive-gray are excellent neutral colors. You can save bright colors for the walls, but lighter shades are easier to paint over later. If you’re planning to paint your cabinets, look for an off-white or light-colored shade. Choose Dunn Edwards’ Swiss Coffee or PPG’s Black Flame, for example, if you’d like to give your kitchen a more contemporary feel.

Preparation steps

Before you begin your cabinet painting project, make sure to prep the cabinets properly. First, use a sanding sponge or 120-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections. Sand both sides of the doors and drawer fronts as well as the rails and stiles. You can also use a small sponge wrapped in sandpaper. After sanding, use a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust. Cover the backsplash and walls with a drop cloth to prevent a drip from falling on them. Next, apply two coats of primer. This is usually an oil-based primer and should be applied according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Before applying the primer and the paint, you should sand the cabinets thoroughly. You do not need to remove the entire finish, just enough to make it easier for the primer to adhere. If you’re working on a kitchen cabinet, you can use a de-glossing liquid or abrasive pad. Remember to wear protective gear, and do this job in a well-ventilated area. Be sure to wipe up any excess sanding dust.

Durability

Before you begin painting your cabinets, you should be sure they’re thoroughly cleaned. Dirty cabinets will not adhere to the paint properly and may need to be repainted. The best way to prevent this is to scrub cabinets with a stiff brush and let them dry completely before applying the paint. Alternatively, you can buy paint and primers that are designed for cabinets, which will ensure better adhesion and durability.

Choosing the right paint for your cabinets is a key aspect of their durability. While many homeowners try to paint cabinets themselves or hire subpar painters, professionally painted cabinets are designed to last and withstand the wear and tear of the home. Cutting corners will lead to peeling and chipping. Professional painters will focus on the surface preparation, including scuff sanding. They will also apply two coats of primer and finish.