Everything You Need To Know About Repairing and Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets

By / March 24, 2023
Comprehensive Guide to painting your kitchen cabinets

In this comprehensive guide we will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to repairing and painting your kitchen cabinets.

 

Whether you are hiring professionals or planning to DIY, this guide will act as a helpful manual to ask the right questions or take the right steps while painting and repairing your kitchen cabinets.  Throughout this doc we’ll discuss:

 

  1. Why Repairing And Painting Your Cabinets Is Worth It
  2. Common Problems With Kitchen Cabinets That Require Repair 
  3. What Types of Paints and Finishes To Consider For Your Cabinets 
  4. Preparing Your Cabinets For Painting 
  5. Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets 

Why Repairing And Painting Your Cabinets Is Worth It

Repairing and Painting your cabinets can be worth it for many reasons including:

 

  1. Repairing and Painting Cabinets is Cost-Effective: Repairing and painting existing cabinets is a lot cheaper than replacing your kitchen cabinets and can still freshen up the look in your kitchen.
  2. Painting Kitchen Cabinets Gives You Customizable Options: As the style of your home changes, you can customize the look of your cabinets with different paint colors and finishes that match the new decor. 
  3. Repairing Cabinets Can Provide Stronger ROI In Home Value: Refacing and Painting cabinets instead of installing new is a major trend in remodeling projects to surpass average ROI.
  4. Repairing Cabinets is the Eco-Friendly Option: Limit the contribution to waste by repairing your existing cabinets instead of adding to the waste 
  5. Personal Appreciation: Earning some personal satisfaction and appreciation can be all that’s needed to make repairing and painting your kitchen cabinets worth it. 

Common Problems With Kitchen Cabinets That Require Repair 

When assessing the health of your existing cabinets you may come across some common problems that will require repair.  The most common problems include:

 

  1. Loose or Broken Cabinet Doors: Over time, cabinet doors may become loose or even detached. This is usually caused by wear and tear on the hinges or screws that hold the doors in place.

  2. Damaged Cabinet Hardware: Cabinet hardware such as knobs and handles can become damaged or worn out over time. This can include cracks, chips, or even missing pieces.

  3. Water Damage: Water damage can occur in kitchen cabinets due to leaks or spills. It can cause wood to warp, discolor, or even rot, which can weaken the cabinet structure.

  4. Scratches and Dents: Kitchen cabinets can become scratched or dented over time due to normal use. These imperfections can detract from the overall appearance of your cabinets.

  5. Faded or Outdated Finish: The finish on your kitchen cabinets can become faded or outdated over time. This can make your kitchen look tired and dated, even if the cabinets themselves are still in good condition.

What Types of Paints and Finishes To Consider For Your Cabinets 

When it comes to painting your kitchen cabinets, there are a few different types of paints and finishes to consider. Here are some options:

 

Latex Paint 

  • Latex paint is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets because it dries quickly, is easy to clean up, and has low levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Latex paint is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, from flat to glossy.

Oil-Based Paint: 

  • Oil-based paint is durable and provides a hard, smooth finish that resists chipping and scratching. However, it takes longer to dry than latex paint and requires solvents for cleanup. Oil-based paint is available in both glossy and matte finishes.

Acrylic Paint:

  • Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that is easy to work with and dries quickly. It provides a durable finish that resists fading, cracking, and peeling. Acrylic paint is available in a range of colors and finishes, from matte to glossy.

High-Gloss Paint:

  • High-gloss paint is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets because it provides a sleek, modern look. It is easy to clean and reflects light, which can make your kitchen appear brighter and more spacious.

Satin Finish:

  • A satin finish is a low luster, smooth finish that is more durable and easier to clean than a flat finish. It has a subtle sheen that can add depth and dimension to your cabinets without being too shiny.

When choosing a paint or finish for your kitchen cabinets, consider the style of your kitchen, the level of durability you need, and your personal preferences for color and finish.

Preparing Your Cabinets For Painting 

Preparing your cabinets properly is crucial to achieving a professional-looking and long-lasting paint job. Here are the steps you can follow to prepare your cabinets for painting:

 

  1. Remove Cabinet Doors and Hardware: Remove all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware such as hinges, knobs, and pulls. This will make it easier to paint the cabinets and ensure that the paint goes on smoothly.

  2. Clean Cabinets Thoroughly: Use a mild degreaser, such as dish soap and water, to clean the cabinets and remove any grease or grime. Rinse the cabinets with clean water and allow them to dry completely.

  3. Sand Cabinets: Use fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) to sand the surface of the cabinets. Sanding will help the paint adhere better and create a smooth surface. Be sure to sand all surfaces, including the edges and corners.

  4. Fill Any Holes or Cracks: Use wood filler to fill any holes or cracks in the cabinets. Once the wood filler is dry, sand it smooth.

  5. Prime Cabinets: Apply a coat of primer to the cabinets. Primer will help the paint adhere better and create a smoother finish. Be sure to use a primer that is appropriate for the type of paint you will be using.

  6. Sand Again: Once the primer is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to sand the surface of the cabinets again. This will help create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.

  7. Apply Paint: Apply paint to the cabinets using a brush or roller. Be sure to use a high-quality paint that is appropriate for your cabinets.

  8. Apply Second Coat: Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely, and then apply a second coat of paint. This will ensure that the cabinets are evenly coated and will help the paint last longer.

  9. Reattach Hardware: Once the paint is dry, reattach the cabinet doors and hardware.

These steps will help you prepare your cabinets properly for painting and achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets

Now that you’ve confidently decided on cabinet painting vs cabinet refacing you’ll want to follow a process for painting your kitchen cabinets.  

 

  1. Apply First Coat of Paint: Using a brush or roller, apply the first coat of paint to the cabinets. Apply the paint evenly and smoothly, starting with the cabinet frames and then moving to the doors and drawers. Be sure to avoid drips and runs.

  2. Sand Between Coats: Once the first coat of paint is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface of the cabinets. This will help smooth out any imperfections and create a better surface for the next coat of paint. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dust or debris.

  3. Apply Second Coat of Paint: Apply a second coat of paint in the same manner as the first coat. Be sure to apply the paint evenly and smoothly, and avoid drips and runs.

  4. Allow Cabinets to Dry: Allow the cabinets to dry completely between coats of paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time, as this can vary depending on the type of paint and environmental conditions.

  5. Apply Third Coat of Paint (If Necessary): Depending on the type of paint you are using and the color you are painting over, you may need to apply a third coat of paint to achieve full coverage. Follow the same steps as before, applying the paint evenly and smoothly.

  6. Apply Finishing Touches: Once the final coat of paint is dry, you can apply any finishing touches, such as glaze, distressing, or a clear coat. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for these finishing touches, as they can vary depending on the product.

  7. Reattach Hardware: Once everything is dry, reattach the cabinet doors and hardware. Be sure to handle the cabinets gently for the first few days to allow the paint to fully cure.

By following this professional process you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish on your kitchen cabinets.

Each project will provide you with a unique set of circumstances, some easy and some tough, so it is always recommended to consult with a professional.  Hopefully this painting your kitchen cabinets guide to help you get one step closer to that dream kitchen you’ve always wanted. 

 

For any questions please reach our team directly at 619-481-7732 and be sure to review our cabinet painting services page. 

 

Sources:

 

  1. Element. Top 5 Renovation Tips to Increase Home Value in 2023. https://www.elementkb.com/blog/renovation-tips-in-2023/

  2. The Spruce. Common Kitchen Cabinet Problems and Solutions. https://www.thespruce.com/common-kitchen-cabinet-problems-1822132

  3. The Spruce. Types of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets. https://www.thespruce.com/types-of-paint-for-kitchen-cabinets-1822186

  4. HGTV. Repairing Kitchen Cabinets. https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens/repairing-kitchen-cabinets

  5. This Old House. Fixing Kitchen Cabinet Doors. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/kitchens/21018837/fixing-kitchen-cabinet-doors

  6. Bob Vila. How to Repair Water-Damaged Cabinets. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-repair-water-damaged-cabinets/

  7. Lowe’s. How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-paint-kitchen-cabinets