How to Paint Your Cabinets Instead of Replacing Them
Are you so tired of staring at those old, beat-up cabinets? Maybe they are starting to feel outdated, or you simply want to give your kitchen or bathroom a facelift. The good news is you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars replacing them. You can give them a fresh, new look simply by painting them.
Painting cabinets is a fantastic DIY project. It changes the space so much, too. That said, below, we show you how to do it yourself. If you would rather have professionals handle it, we encourage you to consider Fresno Painting Pros for getting the job done right.
Why Paint Instead of Replace?
Replacing the cabinets can be costly and may take a lot of time. You also have to purchase brand new cabinets in addition to removing the old ones and going through an installation process. Therefore, painting your cabinets saves you a lot while you still get that brand-new look.
Its also greener. Generally, in replacing your cabinets, the old ones land in the landfill. In repainting, you are reusing what you already have and breathing new life into them.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, it is necessary to prepare all that one may need. In the following, a basic list of what you will need in painting your cabinets:
Screwdriver: to take out the cabinet doors, hardware like knobs and hinges
Drop cloth or old sheets – for floor and countertop protection Painter’s tape – to mask off areas that are not to be painted Sandpaper- medium and fine grit to smooth the surface out Wood filler- (optional for dents or holes) Primer-you may be able to get away without primer, but it really extends the life and adhesion of the paint Paint-Cabinet or furniture paint. High-quality, durable paint will provide a professional finish. Paintbrushes and rollers-for paint application
Tack cloth or a damp rag: to dust off after sanding
You will also need to wear old clothes or an apron now, as it will get messy while painting.
Step 1: Remove Cabinet Doors and Hardware
You go ahead and take the cabinet doors, drawers, and all the hardware off. Take the hinges and handles off using a screwdriver. Put the screws and hardware in a plastic bag so that you do not lose them.
Removing the doors will make it easier to paint because you will not have to worry about getting paint accidentally on your handles or knobs.
Step 2: Clean Your Cabinets
It is very necessary that you clean your cabinets before sanding or painting them. The cabinet, with time, tends to get greasy as it does in the kitchen areas. You use a light cleaner or soap and water and clean off the dirt and grease completely.
This process will ensure that the paint adheres to the cabinet and does not peel off later on.
Step 3: Sand the Surface
Once your cabinets are clean and dry, it’s time to sand. Sanding is one of the crucial steps because it allows the paint to adhere better. Use medium-grit sandpaper to rough up the surface; if there is any existing paint on the cabinets, remove chipping paint.
Then, after sanding, with a tack cloth or a wet rag, clean off the dust. You want to make sure it’s smooth and free from debris before you start painting.
Step 4: Apply Primer
Primer provides a smooth surface for painting and helps in the coverage of stains or dark colors on your cabinets. Take your brush or roller and apply a thin coat of primer. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Primer is quite critical as far as the durability of your paint job is concerned.
Step 5: Paint Your Cabinets
Ah, now for the fun part-painting! Cabinet paint or furniture paints made for high-use areas are best, because they are very durable and can easily be cleaned. For small, detailed areas, use a brush; on large, flat surfaces, use a roller.
Use thin coats, allowing it to dry between layers. This might also help avoid drips and give it an even finish. You may have to apply two or three coats depending on color coverage.
Step 6: Allow to Dry
Let your cabinets dry completely after you have applied the final coat of paint. This can be anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the type of paint used. Be patient in this stage, as reassembling too early will surely ruin your freshly painted cabinets.
Step 7: Reassemble Your Cabinets
Now that the paint is dry, it’s time to put everything back together. Reattach the doors and hardware with the screws you have saved. You can give the look an even more updated feel by installing new handles or knobs.
Professional-Looking Finish Tips
Take your time: The biggest mistake made with this project is hurrying through it. Make sure each coat is fully dry before moving on to the next step.
Use quality materials: Cheap paint or brushes may streak or not last for long.
Label all of the doors and hardware: When removing doors take the time to label them so you know where they go. This will save you some time and frustration when it is time to reattach them.
When to Hire a Professional
While painting cabinets is a great and fun DIY project, it’s not for everyone. If you don’t have the time, patience, or proper tools to do it correctly, it’s to your benefit to call in the help of a professional. They have experience and knowledge to accomplish the task effectively and efficiently.
Hiring a professional also means a perfect finish that can last for years. If you would wish for someone else to handle your project of cabinet painting, seize the opportunity now with Fresno Painting Pros. They have broad experience and can give your cabinets that attractive, professional look.
Conclusion
Painting the cabinets can instantly give a new look to either your kitchen or bathroom without having to pay the high cost of replacement. In fact, with just a little time and patience, along with the right tools for the job, you can give your cabinets an all-new look and make the place feel as good as new.
Whether you choose to do this yourself or bring in the professionals at Fresno Painting Pros, painting your cabinets is a smart and frugal option that can make all the difference in your residence. Happy painting!
