Should you paint your cabinets or get new ones? That’s a common question for those wanting to improve their kitchen spaces. The cost of replacing cabinets is significant, yet painting existing cabinets comes with a great deal of consideration of cost, supplies, technique and more. Painting kitchen cabinets isn’t for everyone, but if you are mulling it over, consider these tips.
Preparation, Preparation, Preparation
We can’t emphasize this enough. To get a good result, it’s imperative to prep your cabinets. That means cleaning, sanding, removing cabinets from hinges, removing and labeling hardware, masking and taping areas you don’t want paint on, and having a designated spot to paint cabinet fronts.
The Right Supplies
Choosing the right paint is probably the most important part of gathering supplies. The type of paint and primer you use along with the tools will impact the longevity of your paint job. Water based acrylic paints labeled for cabinet use are best for DIYers. Tools are very important too. Using a sprayer tool will give you a smooth and even finish and decrease some of your time painting. But they are pricey, and it requires some practice to get the hang of it. Good old-fashioned roller or brush painting is a great option too, but smooth finishes also require finesse.
Understanding the Pros and Cons
Painting kitchen cabinets is a big task. And it’s important to go into the project with a full understanding of the pros and cons. If your kitchen is large and there are numerous cabinets, it might make sense to consider hiring out the job to a professional painter. If your kitchen is small and you’re up to the commitment, it could be well worth your time. Like any home project, it’s wise to do some good planning beforehand to save yourself, time, money and hassle.
