Cabinet Painting Sacramento is a complex project requiring a lot of time and attention. From removing the hardware to sanding and priming, it is a step-by-step process that must be followed to ensure a quality finish.
All surfaces that will be painted need to be thoroughly cleaned with a degreaser. This is a critical step because paint does not bond well with grease.
Primers are the first layer of paint that goes onto any wall surface. They help the top coat of paint adhere to the surface and last longer, especially on a porous surface like wood or bare drywall. The reason is that primer has a higher resin density than regular paint, so it binds to the wall and helps the topcoat paint stick to it. The higher resin density also means that you can use less paint overall, because it sticks to the surface so well.
Most people will apply two coats of primer to their cabinets before they begin painting. This is because the primer helps ensure that the paint will adhere and will not peel or chip in the future, even when it’s exposed to moisture, as is the case in a kitchen. It can also block stains and give the paint a smoother base that will help it look better when it’s finished.
Before applying any primer, it’s important to clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser like Krud Kutter or TSP. This will make sure that all the dirt and grease is removed from the surface so the primer and then the paint can adhere to it properly.
Once you’ve cleaned the cabinets, it’s a good idea to scuff-sand the surfaces that are going to be painted. This will help the primer and the subsequent coats of paint to adhere to the cabinets, and it will also create a smoother surface that will be easier to work with when you’re ready to start painting.
If the cabinet walls are already a light color, you may not need to prime them before you paint again. However, if the previous coat was glossy or had a high sheen, it’s best to prime and then paint to prevent any future issues with adhesion and fading.
A primer is also a great choice if you’re changing the color of the room, particularly if you’re moving from a dark shade to a lighter one, as the primer will help the new coat of paint go on smoothly and blend in with the existing colors in the room.
Prep
Cabinet painting is a cost-effective way to dramatically change the look of your kitchen without replacing or refacing cabinets. Unlike cabinet refacing, which involves removing cabinet doors and drawer fronts and installing new hinges and hardware, painting requires no major structural changes. However, it does require careful preparation to ensure good adhesion and a smooth finish.
Cabinets are constantly exposed to grease, steam, food splatters, and oils from hands. These substances can cause the existing paint to peel or fade over time, especially if it is not properly prepped for paint. Prep includes cleaning, sanding, patching holes and imperfections, priming, and painting. Poor cabinet prep is one of the most common causes of sloppy results, and can ruin your entire project.
The cabinet painting process can seem daunting, but it is actually quite easy if you follow the right steps. First, you need to clean the cabinets with a degreaser like TSP (Trisodium Phosphate Heavy Duty Cleaner) and water. This will remove any grease or residue that could cause your new paint to fail. You should also lightly sand the surface to roughen it up for better adhesion.
After sanding, you should use a quality wood filler to patch any imperfections or hardware holes. Once it has cured, you can sand again using fine grit sandpaper to make sure the surface is perfectly smooth and ready for primer. Alternatively, you can skip the primer and just apply your favorite cabinet paint right to the bare cabinets!
There are many different cabinet paints on the market, but the best choice for cabinets is a high-quality alkyd oil-based paint. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams both make excellent alkyd products that are low-VOC, durable, and self-leveling. The best alkyd paints will dry to a hard, shiny finish and resist moisture, stains, and scratches. It is important to choose the right product for your cabinet painting, as a cheap or poor quality paint will not last and can make your cabinets look sloppy. After you apply your final coat of paint, it is important to let it dry completely before putting your cabinets back into place.
Paint
If you’re a homeowner who wants to update the look of your kitchen on a budget, painting cabinets is one of the most cost-effective options. However, a successful cabinet paint job requires a great deal of effort, including cleaning, sanding, repairing damage, priming, and finally applying multiple coats of your chosen color.
The first step is to remove all cabinet doors and drawer fronts. This allows you to access the face frames and interior of the cabinets, which will help determine what type of finish is required. You will need to clean all surfaces to remove dust and dirt. A shop vac with a brush attachment or a damp rag will work well for this. If you find any areas that need repair, patch holes or dents with wood filler and sand to smooth the surface.
After all surfaces are cleaned, a coat of primer will be applied to all areas that will receive paint. This helps the new paint adhere to the existing surface, as well as provides a smooth base for your final colors. You can use a spray primer or a traditional oil-based primer, depending on your preference. If you choose to use an oil-based primer, you’ll need to wait for it to dry completely before you can begin painting.
When it comes to choosing your color, it’s important to consider the amount of use your kitchen gets. If you have a busy family, then a more durable paint may be needed to stand up to heavy wear and tear. A professional can advise you on the best option for your home.
Unlike cabinet refacing, painting does not require you to move out of your kitchen while the project is ongoing. You can complete the work over a few weekends and still cook dinner at home! After all, you’ll need to re-install your doors and hardware after the last coat of paint dries.
Both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore make alkyd paints that are specifically formulated for cabinetry. They have the durability of an oil-based paint but don’t require a lengthy curing process like oils do. This means that you can get your kitchen back sooner!
Finish
Cabinet painting isn’t just about brushing on a new color, it involves a series of steps that include proper surface prep and preparation for the paint. This process includes sanding, cleaning, patching dents and holes, priming, and painting. It’s a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, but it can produce a beautiful result.
Unlike cabinet refacing, which requires the replacement of existing surfaces, cabinet painting is a more flexible option that allows homeowners to experiment with different colors and finishes. The right choice can make the room feel more updated and cohesive. There are many choices for the finish, including gloss and matte, as well as textured and distressed designs. While they add visual interest, these finishes may show smudges and fingerprints more easily than smooth finishes. Additionally, if the cabinets are not protected with a polyurethane topcoat, they may be prone to chipping or moisture damage.
It’s important to select the best paint for your cabinets. For a durable finish that will resist scratches and stains, use a high-quality acrylic latex paint. It’s also a good idea to apply a clear lacquer topcoat for added protection and shine. This will help prevent the finish from yellowing over time.
To prepare the surface for paint, sand the cabinets with medium-grit sandpaper to expose the wood underneath. If necessary, you can use an electric sander to speed up the process and remove old paint more quickly. Then, wipe down the cabinets with a damp cloth to remove any dust and dirt. Once the cabinets are dry, they’re ready to be painted.
Once the cabinets are painted, it’s easy to decorate them with decorative touches. You can add hardware in a coordinating or contrasting color, paint the insides of the cabinets with a bright hue, or use decorative molding to highlight details. For example, blogger Aniko from Place of My Taste used a combination of white and navy blue spray paint for her shaker-style cabinets to create an updated kitchen that feels fresh and contemporary. The navy accents are a great way to add depth and dimension to the space without making the cabinets feel dark.