Do your kitchen cabinets look dull and boring? It means it’s time for a kitchen renovation. Although renovating a kitchen means breaking the bank, we have a better suggestion: paint your kitchen cabinets. Do you know How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets? No? Let us help you with it,
Kitchen Cabinets Painting does not only mean buying a gallon of your favourite color and starting to give a new look to your cabinets, there’s so much more to it. For a successful project completion, you need to follow a proper guide and instructions. So, we are here with a detailed guide about everything you should know when painting a kitchen cabinet.
How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets?
You will be surprised to know that painting kitchen cabinets doesn’t come with a hefty price tag. It is much less than paying for a complete kitchen renovation. However, the cost of painting will depend on the size of your cabinetry, the amount of primer you will use, and the type of paint you buy. On average, the cost can range from about $400 to over a thousand dollars for most of the homes.
Types of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets
Should you go for oil or latex?
Latex paints have improved significantly, leading many professionals to prefer them over oil-based options due to their quick drying time and water cleanup. However, some still favor oil-based topcoats for their durability and smooth finish. Notably, latex paints can take up to three weeks to fully cure, making them prone to damage during that time.
Both oil and latex options can provide good finishes. If opting for latex, choose a 100 percent acrylic formulation for better durability.
Brush or Spray Paint?
Regarding application, you can choose between brush or spray painting. Spraying offers a smooth finish but requires skill and additional equipment, along with time spent masking areas for overspray. High-quality brushes are recommended instead, such as a 3- to 4-inch square brush for larger areas and a 2½- to 3-inch angled brush for corners. Use synthetic bristles for latex paint and natural bristles for oil-based paints.
How Do You Paint Cabinets?
Painting kitchen cabinets is a long process, it may take several days and sometimes an entire month if there is so much to paint. So, it is always a good idea to plan ahead of time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to paint kitchen cabinets. Follow this and we assure you that you’ll be happy with the results.
However, before you begin with the project, you have to prepare the surface and gather the right tools and supplies, including:
Sandpaper
Sanding is a crucial step that removes dirt and helps in paint adhesion. You can get a 50-grit sandpaper for making the rough spots smooth or a 220-grit sandpaper for a smooth surface.
Primer
Using a primer is a must. It helps the paint to stick to the surface and last longer. Additionally, a primer will cover all the old paint jobs and visible imperfections.
Masking tape
Using masking tape, you can create clean, sharp edges. It is widely used to mask off areas that should not be painted.
Drop cloth
Now, if you don’t want to increase your cleaning tasks, use a drop cloth. By placing the cloth on the floor and furniture, you can protect them from paint stains.
Paint roller
If you use a small roller (4–8 in wide) for kitchen cabinet painting, it will get easier for you to maneuver around cabinet edges.
Here is what you need to do next:
Preparation For Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Step 1: Assess the condition of the kitchen cabinets
The first and foremost thing to do is, identify the condition of your cabinets. You can repaint kitchen cabinets only if the existing paint is in a good state. However, if the condition of the paint is not good, you have to remove the old paint with the help of stripping products. You just have to apply the stripper with the brush to the paint and wait until it reacts with the old paint. Once done, take a plastic scraper to peel it away and wait for it to dry. After this, take a sandpaper and remove the paint that is left.
If your house was built before 1978, chances are the paint used would be lead-based. To confirm this, you use a testing kit or approach a professional at Cabinet & Granite Direct!
Step 2: Vacant your cabinets, remove the doors
You will be sanding the cabinets, which will make them dusty. So, it would be better if you removed the doors and drawers beforehand. To ensure you don’t forget where the doors and drawers are to be placed later on, label them using painter’s tape.
The most expensive kitchen cabinet ever sold went for $36 million at auction in 2004. This same piece broke its record, set in an earlier sale in 1990.
Step 3: Clean the surfaces & repair damages
You can use cleaners to remove all the grease and dirt from the surfaces. To repair the damaged areas, like dents and holes, you can use wood filler. Once done, take a putty knife and press the filler to smooth it out and let it dry. This step is only applicable if you have to replace the hardware so that the holes don’t line up with the new hardware. Skip this step if you are going to use the same hardware.
Step 4: Time to prepare the area
Shield your countertops, appliances, and any other surfaces you want to keep safe while painting kitchen cabinets. Applying painter’s tape along the cabinet edges on the wall is a smart strategy. Sand all surfaces with medium-grit sandpaper to ensure excellent paint adhesion. Fold the sandpaper for precise access to the detailed areas on doors and drawers, as well as the corners of the frames.
Painted cabinets don’t get any dirtier than stained cabinets do.
Step 5: Vacuum the area
The last step is to clean all surfaces with a vacuum cleaner and a tack cloth. This will help you ensure that there are no dust particles on the surface when you finally start painting kitchen cabinets.
Prime Kitchen Cabinets
There is no chance of skipping the primer part as it offers an ideal surface for the paint to stick and help it look better and stay longer.
Step 6: Start with painting the cabinet frames
Remember, while applying primer on the cabinet frames, work from the inside out. When painting the inside of your cabinets, begin at the back and work your way forward. Use a brush to reach those tricky corners and detailed spots. It’s essential to apply even strokes and to finish by blending into the wet primer for a smooth finish.
Step 7: Apply the primer on larger areas
The best you can do is use a mini roller on large and flat areas. Note, you don’t have to make the primer look perfect, its only purpose is to cover the surface and provide a good base for the finish paint.
Step 8: Lay Off
Once you’ve covered the surface, grab your dry roller or brush (without reloading it) and gently go over the area one more time to smooth out any excess paint. This process is known as “laying off.”
Step 9: Paint the Door & Drawers
Now it’s time to paint the doors and drawers. First, peel off the tape labels, but keep them close by for reference. Begin by painting the backside with a smooth, even coat. Once it’s dry, flip the door over to tackle the front. Start with the detailed areas, ensuring that the primer doesn’t pool in the corners, and feather out the edges for a seamless finish. Then, move on to the larger, flat surfaces using a foam roller. To make it easier to reach the edges, use painters’ tripods to lift the doors and drawers off your painting surface.
For the drawers, it’s usually best to just paint the front piece instead of the whole drawer. Painting the sides and bottom can risk them sticking in the frames. Allow the primer to dry according to the instructions, which typically takes a few hours.
Paint Kitchen Cabinets
You can apply paint to your kitchen cabinets using a brush and roller for a DIY-friendly approach, or a sprayer if you’re feeling more advanced. If you choose the sprayer, you’ll achieve a smooth, professional finish.
How to Paint kitchen cabinets using a brush and roller:
Step 10: Paint the Cabinet Frames
Begin with the cabinet frames. Use a high-quality brush for tight spots and a foam roller for larger areas. Apply your paint with even strokes, finishing each stroke back into the wet paint to feather out the edges. Remember to “lay off” the paint after covering the surface to smooth it out.
Step 11: Paint the Cabinet Backs and Fronts
Next, tackle the cabinet doors. Start by painting the backs, allowing them to dry completely before moving on to the fronts. Be sure to follow the paint manufacturer’s recommended dry times. Don’t be in a hurry—let the paint cure fully for the best results.
Step 12: Apply a Second Coat
After the first coat has dried, apply a second coat of paint, which will serve as your finish coat. Allow it to dry thoroughly. It’s best to avoid reassembling the cabinets until the paint is fully cured.
How to Repaint Kitchen Cabinets?
Kitchen cabinet repainting is the process of refreshing the appearance of your kitchen cabinets by applying a new coat of paint. This can be a cost-effective way to revitalize your kitchen without the expense of replacing them entirely.
Here’s a breakdown of the process of how to repaint kitchen cabinets:
Preparation:
- Remove cabinet doors and hardware.
- Clean the cabinets thoroughly to remove grease and grime.
- Fill any dents or holes with wood filler.
- Lightly sand the entire surface to create a smooth finish.
- Vacuum and wipe down the cabinets to remove dust.
Priming:
- Apply a coat of high-quality primer specifically designed for cabinets. This ensures better paint adhesion and a smooth finish.
Painting:
- Apply two coats of paint, using a brush for detailed areas and a roller for larger surfaces.
- Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Reattach the hardware and doors once the paint is fully dry.
Benefits of Repainting Kitchen Cabinets:
- Affordability: Repainting is significantly cheaper than replacing cabinets.
- Customization: Choose any color or finish to match your desired style.
- Improved Appearance: A fresh coat of paint can instantly revitalize your kitchen.
- Increased Home Value: A well-maintained kitchen can add value to your home.
How Much Does it Cost to Repaint Cabinets?
The cost of repainting kitchen cabinets can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Size of the kitchen: Larger kitchens with more cabinets will naturally cost more to paint.
- Condition of the cabinets: If the cabinets require significant repairs or sanding, the cost will increase.
- Type of paint: High-quality paints may cost more but can provide a better finish and durability.
- Labour costs: Hiring a professional painter will increase the overall cost.
- Cabinet material: Some materials, like laminate, may require special preparation and paint.
- Complexity of the design: Intricate designs or detailed carvings may add to the cost.
- Location: Costs can vary depending on your location and local labor rates.
Tips for Saving Money
- Shop for deals: Look for discounts on paint and other supplies.
- Do your prep work: This can save you money on labor costs.
- Consider a less expensive paint: While high-quality paint is ideal, a more affordable option can still provide good results.
Remember, while repainting your kitchen cabinets can be a cost-effective way to update your kitchen, it’s important to factor in all the costs involved. By carefully considering your budget and the factors that influence the cost, you can make an informed decision.
The Bottom Line
Painting kitchen cabinets is a rewarding DIY project that can transform your kitchen without breaking the bank. By following these steps and tips on how to paint kitchen cabinets, you can achieve a beautiful, professional-looking finish. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to a successful outcome. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to give your kitchen a fresh, new look!