Is it Time for a Remodel or Should You Paint Your Cabinets?
It has always been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, so why wouldn’t you want it looking it’s best? It may be hard to tell when it’s time to give a little facelift or do a complete renovation. Your kitchen is one of the most utilized areas of the home, so your cabinets are inevitably going to have a little wear and tear damage to them over time. They go through moisture exposure, grease, and other substances, which can take a toll on even the most durable of surfaces. So it is to be expected your cabinets will lose their perfect finish over time. The best part about cabinets is it can be a very inexpensive and easy fix. You may not even have to resurface them. As long as your cabinets are made out of materials such as wood, wood veneer, or even metal, refinishing may be a perfect solution for you.
How to Prep for Painting Cabinets
The key to any successful project is preparation. Begin your project by unscrewing all hinges and removing the cabinet doors and drawers. Be sure to put all screws, knobs, and hinges in a plastic bag and store them safely until your project is complete. Protect all counters, appliances, and floors with a plastic covering or any newspaper you have on hand. Whether you plan to paint or stain, the key to a perfect job is a smooth surface. Give your cabinets a good scrubbing to ensure you remove all grime, dirt, and grease to get the flawless result you’re looking for. A great cleaning tip for cabinets is using a vinegar and water solution to get rid of grease and grime and give it a good rinse with plain water. You must let cabinets dry completely before beginning staining or painting.
Stripping and Refinishing Cabinets
The type of stripper you will need depends on the type of finish your cabinets currently have. If you’re unsure about the finish on your cabinets, don’t be afraid to consult a professional to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need. If you take a photo of your cabinets and bring them into your local home repair stores, a worker should be able to advise you properly. Stay on top of any residue by vacuuming all dust as you go.
Refinishing with Paint
If you’re taking the painting route, apply a primer coat before beginning. When painting cabinets using a sprayer is much more preferable than a roller. Using a paint spraying machine, you’ll be able to get a much smoother seamless finish.
Sure, painting cabinets sounds like an easy job, right? Just prep and paint. With all DIY home improvement projects, there are other things to consider, such as your time and skill level. Your kitchen is, after all, the gathering place of your home and one room that gets to most use. How long can you be without it while you finish your DIY paint project? Painting cabinets is a great way to increase value and appeal, and can still be accomplished for a lot less than the cost of a kitchen remodel if you hire professional painters.
Always ask for references, read reviews, and take a look at other projects before hiring a painting contractor. For more information and tips regarding how to choose the right painter, read through our blog.
