A Complete Guide for Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing
Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing
When it’s time to remodel a kitchen, one of the major changes a homeowner can make is to restore their kitchen cabinet by refinishing them. This simple change can increase the value and appearance of a kitchen and thus the entire home.
In most homes, the kitchen procures a substantial amount of foot traffic. As a result, kitchen cabinets become very damaged; from scuff marks, to dirt, to chipping paint. To replace your kitchen cabinets with new ones would cost considerably more and, could mean having an unfinished kitchen for a longer time. It can be very inconvenient!
On the other hand, a new coat of paint or a change of color will significantly brighten up your kitchen without the inconvenience or hassle.
Refacing vs. Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
What does Refacing Cabinets mean?
Refacing Cabinets, also known as resurfacing, is a process through which homeowners can update the appearance of their cabinets by altering the wood, color, door style, and hardware, providing a refreshed aesthetic. During this process, the framework of the cabinets remains unchanged but is instead covered with a new surface material such as laminate or veneer.
Laminates offer a synthetic appearance and texture to the cabinets, providing a modern look. However, it’s essential to note that laminate may not offer the same level of durability as natural wood or veneer.
Veneer, another option for resurfacing cabinets, involves applying a thin layer of real wood over the existing framework. While veneer can provide a more natural appearance, it may require regular maintenance to preserve its condition.
What is Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing?
Refinishing cabinets, often referred to as repainting, involves applying a fresh coat of paint to existing cabinets without stripping the old finish. This process can be more cost-effective than replacing cabinets entirely, but it requires careful preparation and attention to detail to achieve a professional-looking result.
During refinishing, homeowners typically remove cabinet doors, drawers, and cupboard fronts, then thoroughly clean and lightly sand the surfaces to ensure proper adhesion. Next, a primer is applied before the cabinets are repainted, and the same process is repeated for the cabinet frames.
The aim of refinishing cabinets is to give them a renewed appearance while retaining the existing structure. It’s an efficient way to revitalize your kitchen or bathroom with a fresh and updated look, achieved through the application of a new paint finish
4 Products for Preparing Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Product and Tools List.
Below is a list of products we recommend to make the refinishing process easy. We have found that these products increase the longevity of a paint finish and result in a fine finish. All these products can be found at your local paint store.
For Clean Kitchen Cabinets.
To remove dirt and grease from your cabinets, we recommend Dirtex Cleaner. It’s a powerful general-purpose cleaner. Mix about two tablespoons with a gallon of warm water. Unlike other cleaners, Dirtex leaves surfaces clean without rinsing or streaking.
For Removing Gloss or Sheen from Cabinets.
To reduce the glossy appearance of your kitchen cabinets, we suggest using Krud Kutter Gloss-Off. This highly effective formula is specifically designed to eliminate gloss from surfaces, preparing them for repainting. By removing the gloss, it ensures that the new coat of paint adheres more effectively to the surface. Simply apply the product to a cloth and rub it onto the cabinets in a circular motion. After allowing it to dry for approximately 10 minutes, you can proceed to apply your desired coat of paint for a refreshed look.
Fill Holes In Kitchen Cabinets.
The kitchen is a high-traffic area in most homes. As a result, your kitchen cabinets may need to be patched. To fill holes in your kitchen cabinets, we recommend Muralo Spackle. Fill in any damaged areas with the spackle using a putty knife. After, lightly sand those areas flush.
Seal and Primer Kitchen Cabinets.
Picking the right primer to complete the painting process is very important. If you have patched any holes or have stained cabinets you want to make white, we recommend Bin Primer. Bin Primer is a dual-action product because it serves as a primer and sealer. Since it’s alcohol-based, it dries very quickly. Bin also seals and prevents stained cabinets or patches from bleeding after the painting is done.
Is Refinishing My Kitchen Cabinets White a Good Idea?
Selecting the perfect color for your kitchen cabinets can be a daunting task for many homeowners. However, we’ve discovered that white or shades of white are often favored by our clients due to their timeless elegance and ability to brighten up a space.
For those seeking pristine white cabinets, we highly recommend the C2 Paint Cabinet and Trim. Crafted from Whey, a cheese by-product, this durable option provides a long-lasting finish that beautifully enhances your cabinet’s surface. Available in satin or semi-gloss, it offers versatility to suit your preferences.
For a luxurious touch, consider Fine Paints of Europe. Renowned for its mirror-like finish, this brand elevates your kitchen cabinets, adding a touch of luxury to your space.
Advantages of White Kitchen Cabinets
However, if white doesn’t align with your kitchen’s aesthetic due to factors such as appliance colors, countertops, trim, or flooring, opting for a contrasting paint or stain can create a stunning visual impact. We recommend selecting a hue that complements the overall design scheme while adding depth and character to your kitchen.
Want to Try Multiple Colors?
Are you feeling bold about your kitchen cabinet colors? Try using two colors in your kitchen. Pairing a bold color with a neutral color makes the kitchen pop and creates a magnificent contrast. We suggest using your bold color choice only on the lower cabinets and drawers.
If you have a kitchen island, try using your bold choice only on the island. This splash of color pairs well with an all-white kitchen because of the island’s central location.
Paint Brand Recommendations
At H.D.F. Painting, we have trained and worked with all the top paint brands. We can recommend colors from Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, C2, Farrow and Ball, Fine Paints of Europe, and Behr.
We are also recognized as Fine Paints of Europe Certified Contractor. Fine Paints of Europe is extremely durable and resistant to fading. The colors are richer and look especially amazing on kitchen cabinets and furniture around your home.
DIY Tips for Kitchen Cabinets Refinishing
If you’re someone who enjoys DIY projects and is considering repainting your kitchen cabinets, we’ve provided a brief video guide below to help you get started. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that this task can be time-consuming and challenging to get right. A poorly executed paint job can detract from the overall appearance of your kitchen.
For larger home painting projects, especially those with significant visual impact like kitchen cabinets, we highly recommend hiring a professional. Doing so ensures a hassle-free experience and guarantees a high-end finish that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home.
H.D.F. Painting Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Services
Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Services
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If you’re after a top-notch finish that goes beyond what you can achieve with DIY projects, why not give us a try at H.D.F. Painting? Why go through the trouble of buying and setting up new kitchen cabinets or refinishing them yourself? Contact us for a full-service kitchen cabinet refinishing service. Learn More about our Kitchen cabinet services.
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