San Jose Cabinet Refinishing is a great option to revitalize cabinet doors and drawer fronts without the cost of new materials. This process requires sanding and chemically stripping the existing finish to prepare it for new paint or stain.
However, refinishing isn’t an option for thermofoil or laminate cabinet doors. This type of material is not made to accept stains and is not suitable for painting so refacing would be more appropriate.
Paint
Cabinet refinishing is an expensive and time-consuming process, but it can be worthwhile for older cabinets with a dull finish or chipped edges. The key to a good job is in the preparation and the right products, especially when it comes to primer. If you skip this step, you’ll find the paint won’t adhere to your cabinets properly and will quickly begin to peel or crack.
A quality primer is designed to bond really strongly both mechanically and chemically to the surface of a painted surface, closing it up and creating a smooth canvas for your base coat. Primer isn’t the same as paint, however, and you’ll need both in order to have a successful refinishing project.
You’ll also want to choose a high-quality, oil-enriched enamel paint, such as this all-in-one product from Lowe’s. This paint and primer in one is easy to clean, resists mildew and stains, and dries to a hard, durable finish that withstands the wear and tear of a busy kitchen. It’s also available in a wide range of colors, so you’re sure to find the perfect shade for your cabinets.
To apply this paint, follow the directions on the label and use a roller or brush. Then, sand the surface lightly with a 220 grit sanding block to create a nice even surface for your base coat. Vacuum and rub down with a tack cloth to remove any sanding dust before moving on.
Then, once the primer is dry, you can begin painting the cabinets. Start with the rails and then work your way to the stiles, being careful not to miss any corners or crevices. It’s a good idea to take a break between each coat and let the first coat dry completely before sanding again.
Keep in mind that this is a cosmetic improvement only; it won’t fix structural or functionality issues with the cabinets. If you’re looking to fix problems like warped or broken doors, refacing is a much better option. However, refinishing can make your existing cabinets look great again, and it’s certainly cheaper than replacing them altogether.
Stain
Cabinet stain is a colorant that seeps into the wood grain of your cabinets, highlighting its natural features and adding rich colors to the overall look. Stains are thicker than paint, containing pigments and dyes that are dissolved or suspended in a vehicle, usually a solvent like mineral spirits. Stains are generally a darker option than paint, with the majority of their colorant concentrated near the surface of the cabinet material. Stains require proper preparation of the substrate to ensure that they bond and adhere properly, and will not work if used over existing varnish or paint.
Before you apply a new stain, make sure to strip your cabinets first using an appropriate chemical stripper. After you’ve stripped the old finish, sand the cabinets to prepare them for the new stain. You may need to fill in any cracks or holes before you start, and you’ll need to sand the entire surface afterward to smooth out the finish.
When you’re ready to apply your stain, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Stains are easy to apply, but you will need a bit of patience as they take a few hours to dry. You can speed up the process by rinsing and wiping down your cabinetry after each coat of stain has dried.
A stain is a great way to give your cabinets a facelift, but it won’t fix structural damage or other physical issues, like warped doors or faulty hardware. If you need more extensive changes to the look and functionality of your cabinets, consider refacing instead.
Refacing is a comprehensive renovation that involves removing all of the existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, then replacing them with new cabinet doors and drawer fronts in your desired style. You can do this yourself with a kit from a home improvement store, or you can hire a professional to handle the job for you.
If you have existing cabinets that are in good condition but don’t match your kitchen décor, refacing is a cost-effective solution. Refacing requires a lot of planning and patience, but the end result is a beautiful new look that will transform your entire room. To get started, contact a cabinet refacing contractor online or at a local big-box home improvement store.
Lacquer
In the realm of cabinet aesthetics, lacquer paints are known for their enduring shine and superior durability. These finishes are cured to a hardened state that stands up to chemicals, moisture, and heat better than other coatings.
The most common types of lacquer used in cabinet refinishing are oil-based and solvent-based. It’s important to note that these finishes emit volatile fumes during application, which can remain in the air for a day or more afterward. If you choose this option, it’s best to hire a professional kitchen cabinet painter who has experience working with these chemicals in well-ventilated environments.
A newer variation on lacquer is water-based, which does not emit the same type of volatile fumes during application. Many kitchen cabinet companies have opted to use these products instead of the traditional solvent-based lacquers, as they are safer for their customers and workers. Water-based lacquer also provides a more eco-friendly alternative to other coatings, including shellac and polyurethane.
The finish you choose for your cabinets will depend on the color and style you want to achieve. For example, it’s usually easier to go from a light color to a darker shade with stain than it is with paint. However, if you’re looking to create a unique look, glaze may be the right finish for you. This type of coating is applied to specialty woodwork, such as edges, contours, and other details, to give them a raw or rustic look. It’s also used to highlight skilled carvings and add visual interest to detailed surfaces. Glaze is available in both standard and brushed versions.
Whether you’re refinishing your cabinets to protect the original material, change the color, or upgrade to a more durable surface, the right choice can make all the difference. Refinishing is a cost-effective way to get the look you’ve always wanted without having to replace your cabinets entirely. Unlike refacing, this method allows you to fully customize the color and style of your cabinets while hiding wear and tear and improving overall structural integrity. If you’re ready to get started, contact a cabinet refinishing company near you today!
Clear Coat
Cabinet refinishing is the most cost-effective option for updating the look of your cabinets. If you’re not ready for a full kitchen remodel or replacing your cabinet doors, refinishing can give them a new look without the higher costs of replacement. Cabinet refinishing is also environmentally friendly. Instead of throwing out old cabinet doors and drawer fronts, refinishing gives them new life by rejuvenating the existing wood.
Before starting the refinishing process, it’s important to protect any surfaces that will be affected by sanding and paint and to set up a workspace that can remain protected while you work. If you’re using a chemical stripper, be sure to wear gloves and use a dust mask to avoid inhaling the fumes. Once you’ve sanded and cleaned the cabinets, you can start applying new coats of stain or paint. It’s best to apply multiple thin coats and wait in-between each for the coating to dry properly.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic change than cabinet refinishing, refacing is an option to consider. Refacing is more expensive than refinishing, but it’s more permanent and will completely change the look of your cabinets. Refacing replaces the cabinet door fronts, hinges and handles, but keeps the existing box structure. It’s not ideal for all cabinet materials and can be a time-consuming project, but it’s a great option for achieving a new look.
After the new doors and drawer fronts are installed, the cabinet boxes can be painted or stained to match. A final clear coat can be applied to protect the cabinets from smudges, fingerprints and moisture and add a beautiful finish that makes the color of your spray paint really pop.
Although the NHance team can help you with any cabinet refinishing needs, we recommend hiring a professional to complete this project. Refinishing and refacing require different skill sets, so it’s important to find someone who knows what they’re doing. An experienced professional can make the job much easier and ensure that your cabinets are finished to a high standard.