Are your kitchen cabinets looking a little worse for wear? Are they scuffed, scratched, or just plain dated? If so, you may be considering a full-blown kitchen remodel to get rid of them. But before tearing out your cabinets, consider the magic of cabinet refinishing.
Cabinet refinishing is a cost-effective and easy way to breathe new life into your old cabinets. Not only will it give your kitchen a fresh new look, but it will also increase the value of your home.
In this blog post, we’ll explain the cabinet refinishing process, its benefits, and some tips for getting the best results.
What is Cabinet Refinishing?
Cabinet refinishing is the process of giving your existing cabinets a new finish. This can be done by painting, staining, or glazing. Painting is the most popular option because it allows you to change the color of your cabinets without removing them from the walls.
Can Any Cabinets Be Refinished?
Refinishing kitchen cabinets is a great way to transform your kitchen without breaking the bank. However, some types of cabinets should not be refinished. Cabinets made from particle board or laminate should not be refinished as the process could cause them to warp or crack. Additionally, if the cabinets are already in poor condition due to water damage, it may be best to replace them instead of refinishing them.
Benefits of Cabinet Refinishing
Cost-effective
Cabinet refinishing is a fraction of the cost of a full kitchen remodel. You can save thousands of dollars by keeping your existing cabinets and giving them a new finish.
Quick turnaround
Cabinet refinishing can be done in a matter of days, whereas a full kitchen remodel can take weeks or even months.
Increased home value
Refinishing your cabinets can increase the value of your home. A fresh, new kitchen can be a major selling point for potential buyers.
Environmentally friendly
Cabinet refinishing is an environmentally friendly option because it keeps old cabinets out of landfills.
How to Refinish Your Cabinets
Prepare the surfaces
Before you start, remove all hardware and clean the surfaces of your cabinets. This will ensure that the new finish adheres properly. Make sure to use a mild detergent and to dry completely.
Sand the surfaces
Use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or imperfections on the surfaces of your cabinets. You may need to use a palm sander for larger areas.
Apply primer
Apply a coat of primer to the surfaces of your cabinets. This will help the paint or stain adhere better. The primer should be allowed to dry completely before continuing.
Apply paint or stain
Choose the finish you want for your cabinets and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to use a brush and roller for the best results.
Apply clear coat
If you choose to paint your cabinets, apply a clear coat to protect the finish. Make sure to apply a few coats so that it is adequately sealed.
Replace hardware
Once the finish is dry, replace the hardware on your cabinets. You may choose to replace the hardware completely or just replace the knobs and pulls. This can help update your cabinets even more.
3 Big Tips for Getting the Best Results
Use high-quality paint or stain: Invest in high-quality paint or stain for the best results.
Use a brush and roller: Use a brush and roller to apply the paint or stain to ensure the surface is smooth.
Be patient: Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before applying a second coat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Refinishing Cabinets
Refinishing your cabinets can be a great way to breathe new life into an old kitchen or bathroom. However, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when refinishing your cabinets:
Skipping the sanding
Sanding is an important step in the refinishing process, as it helps to remove any old finishes and rough up the surface of the wood. Skipping this step can lead to a less smooth finish and may cause the new finish to adhere poorly.
Not using the right tools
Using the wrong tools can make the refinishing process more difficult and you won’t be able to achieve the desired results. Make sure you have the right sanders, brushes, and rollers for the job. Each job is different but you should have: a palm sander, a fine-grit sandpaper (180 to 220 grit), a brush and roller set, paint or stain.
Using the wrong type of paint or finish
Not all paints and finishes are suitable for cabinets. Make sure you use a paint or finish that is specifically designed for use on cabinets and that is suitable for the type of wood you are working with.
Not properly preparing the surface
Before applying the new finish, it’s important to clean the surface thoroughly and to fill any holes or cracks. Failure to do so can lead to an uneven finish and can cause the new finish to peel or chip.
Not allowing enough time for drying
Make sure you allow enough time for each coat of paint or finish to dry completely before applying the next one. Applying new coats too soon can lead to drips, runs, and other imperfections.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the proper steps, you can achieve beautiful and long-lasting results with your cabinet refinishing project.
Cabinet refinishing is a cost-effective way to change the look of your space. You can give your kitchen a new look while increasing the value of your home. By following the steps outlined in this blog post and using these tips, you’ll be able to refinish your cabinets like a pro.
Bring New Life to Your Cabinets with Professional Cabinet Refinishing!
If you don’t feel up to the challenge of refinishing your cabinets yourself, contact Perry Brothers Construction. We have years of experience in cabinet refinishing and are happy to provide you with a free quote. You can trust us to give your cabinets a new look that you’ll love!
