VANCOUVER BC’S PREMIER RESIDENTIAL PAINTING COMPANY
VANCOUVER BC’S PREMIER RESIDENTIAL PAINTING COMPANY
Painting cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom, but the process varies significantly based on the current finish of the cabinets. Whether your cabinets are hand-painted, shop-painted, wood-stained, or finished with lacquer, each scenario requires specific steps for optimal results. At Dunbar Painting, we want to help ensure you love the cabinets in your home. That is why we have put together some tips for painting cabinets to help you ensure a flawless finish.
Regardless of the cabinet’s current finish, some preparation steps are universal. First, remove all doors and hardware to ensure easy access and to prevent paint from getting on the knobs and hinges.
Set up a clean, dust-free environment for painting, ideally using a spray setup for a smooth finish. If spraying is not feasible, brushing and rolling by hand are effective alternatives, though they may not yield as seamless a finish.
If you want to transform your kitchen, be aware that all types of cabinets require thorough cleaning before painting. Start by degreasing all surfaces with a suitable cleaner to remove kitchen grime and oils. After cleaning, use a tack cloth to wipe down the surfaces, ensuring they are free of dust and debris. Sanding is next, crucial for creating a surface that allows the new paint to adhere better. After sanding, another wipe-down with a tack cloth is necessary to remove any residual dust.
Previously hand-painted cabinets are generally easier to refresh. If the existing paint is in good condition, you might not need extensive preparation; however, for a near-perfect finish, consider sanding down the surfaces and applying a skim coat of filler before painting. This will help achieve a smoother, more professional look.
Apply two coats of paint, choosing from products like Corrotech Command Satin, Benjamin Moore Advance Pearl, or Emerald Urethane Semi-Gloss. These paints are known for their durability and smooth finish.
Wood-stained cabinets need a slightly different approach due to the nature of the wood and previous treatments.
After the initial sanding, apply a primer designed to cover stains and ensure even paint application. Caulk any gaps that might become noticeable after painting, as these can detract from the smooth finish of your cabinets. Follow up with two coats of the recommended paints for a refreshed look.
Cabinets with a lacquer or a professional shop paint job are the most challenging due to their slick surfaces.
It is crucial to use a primer that promotes adhesion to prevent the new paint from peeling off. Products like Renner Cabinet Paint are ideal for these surfaces, offering a higher-end finish suitable for tough scenarios.
After painting, allow the cabinets to dry thoroughly before reinstalling the doors and hardware. Careful reassembly and diligent cleanup, including meticulous masking of the surroundings before starting, will ensure that your newly painted cabinets look great without additional cleanup.
Achieve a professional-quality finish on your cabinets by following our professional tips or by getting in touch with our team. Whether you upgrading a worn hand-painted finish or tackling challenging lacquered surfaces, contact us at 604-788-3382 to request an estimate for truly durable and aesthetically pleasing results.
