Kitchen cabinets are often the focal point of a kitchen, and they can quickly lose their luster. San Jose Cabinet Refinishing is an affordable and effective way to refresh the look of your kitchen.
Opt for a sheen that is easy to clean and hides scratches and dents. A satin finish looks particularly good on wood cabinet doors.
Sanding
A new coat of paint can transform your cabinetry, bringing a fresh, modern look that’s both functional and sophisticated. However, cabinet painting can be a tricky process and sanding is an important step that shouldn’t be skipped. Sanding is necessary to remove the sheen or protective layer of existing paint and prep for a smooth finish that’s easy for primer and paint to adhere to. Additionally, sanding can smooth out any rough spots and imperfections to create a flawless appearance.
While it may be tempting to skip this step and dive into the project, doing so can leave you with uneven results that are frustrating to live with. When sanding, it’s best to start with a coarse grit and work your way up to a finer grit, taking your time over each area. This will help you avoid removing too much of the wood and can also prevent scratches that will show through the finished product.
It’s also a good idea to sand in the direction of the wood grain, as this will help eliminate any unwanted gouges and bumps. If you’re having trouble getting the hang of sanding by hand, an orbital sander is a great tool to make this job easier. For more detailed areas, a sanding sponge can be used for an even finish without any excess dust. While sanding, be sure to wear a mask and dust goggles to protect yourself from harmful fumes.
If you want a more subtle effect, staining is another option that can bring out the natural beauty of your cabinetry. Rich colors, ranging from light honey tones to dark espresso shades, can add a luxurious feel that’s classic and sophisticated. Staining is also an affordable option that gives you the flexibility to customize your kitchen with a unique style.
Whatever your preference, refinishing your cabinets is a simple and budget-friendly way to give your kitchen a facelift that will last for years to come. Be sure to take your time and protect the surrounding area with drop cloths or plastic sheeting, and consider re-labeling your hardware as you remove it to ensure that they are all reinstalled in the correct order.
Primer
Cabinets can be refinished with wood stains, paints or with a polyurethane coating. Adding a new coat of either stain or paint to your cabinets will give them a fresh look, hide any old scratches or dings and help make the kitchen feel more modern. The key to a great painting project is properly prepped surfaces and a high-quality primer coat. Primer coats are designed to treat surfaces and improve paint adhesion, seal porous surfaces, and create a uniform base for the top coats.
While it is possible to refinish cabinets without priming, a primer coat will make your finished job look better and last longer. It’s important to allow the primer coat to fully dry before applying your top coat. This typically takes between 24 hours and two weeks depending on the primer. If the top coat is applied before this time, it may not bond well with the primer and cause a poor finish.
Whether you are changing your wall color or just repainting your cabinets, it’s crucial to use a high-quality primer for maximum adhesion. A good quality primer will also help mask any previous stains or color changes. You can find primers in a variety of formulations, from water-based latex to oil-based and shellac. The type of primer you choose depends on the surface you’re painting and the level of coverage you require.
Water-based primers are the safest since they have low or no VOCs, and they are easy to clean from your brushes and other painting supplies. They’re a great option for most interior painting projects and can be used on most surfaces including drywall, wood, and brick. Oil-based primers are a good choice for bare wood or drywall, and they offer thicker coverage than water-based primers. They can also be tinted to match the color of your topcoat.
Shellac primers provide serious coverage and are a great option for covering stains, smoke damage, or smells. However, they are slow-drying and release VOCs, so you’ll want to take extra precautions while using them. Once you have a smooth and primed surface, you’re ready to begin the refinishing process. Using a fine-grit sanding block or pad, sand your cabinets and drawer fronts until they’re smooth and free of dings and nicks. Once your sanding is done, wipe down your cabinets with a damp cloth and vacuum them to remove any remaining dust or debris. Then you’re ready to apply your new finish!
Paint
A fresh coat of paint or stain on your cabinets can breathe new life into your kitchen. Cabinet painting is a budget-friendly and quick solution to modernizing your kitchen. The key to a smooth finish is proper prep and priming. You also have many color options to choose from, including trendy and timeless choices.
One of the most popular cabinet refinishing trends is two-toned cabinets, which allow you to showcase your design style. Select a light shade for the upper cabinets and a darker shade for the lower ones to add depth and sophistication. Pair them with matching hardware to create a cohesive look. To achieve this look, begin with a high-quality primer that promotes adhesion, such as KILZ 2 All-Purpose. Then, use a low-VOC interior satin paint like KILZ Tribute Interior Satin Paint. Try contrasting colors like Contemporary White for the upper cabinets and Old Lamppost (an antiqued dark blue-gray) for the lower cabinets.
If you prefer a glossy surface, consider a high-gloss paint. This finish is durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for busy kitchens. However, it is more difficult to achieve a flawless finish than other types of paint. You will need to sand between each coat and follow proper sanding techniques to ensure a smooth result.
You can also spruce up your cabinets by adding stenciled or decal borders. This is an inexpensive way to customize your cabinetry and make it uniquely yours. Choose a design that coordinates with your overall kitchen design and theme.
Cabinet refinishing professionals can help you choose the right type of paint and stain for your kitchen. They can also recommend a new hardware style and decor to complement the cabinets’ fresh, sleek appearance.
Another option is to reface your cabinets with thermofoil, which uses a thin layer of vinyl material to cover cabinet surfaces. This option offers a durable and modern look and is available in numerous wood species and hues. Another affordable and fast option is to swap out the doors and drawer fronts for a new style and material.
Reassemble
When cabinet restoration is done well, the final result can be a seamless blend of modern design and historic style. However, if the process is rushed or sloppy, this aesthetic can easily be compromised. With that in mind, it’s important to take the time to assess and evaluate your cabinets before bringing out the brushes and paints. This initial assessment will help you determine the extent of the restoration needed, as well as any additional steps or repairs required.
The first step in cabinet restoration is a thorough cleaning to prepare the surface for the new finish you want to add. This process should be completed with a commercial degreaser, such as trisodium phosphate (TSP). TSP emulsifies grease and allows it to be removed more efficiently than soap and water alone. Once the cabinetry is cleaned, it can be rinsed with clean water and wiped down to remove any remaining residue.
This is also the ideal opportunity to repair any dents or chips. Once the cabinetry is ready, it’s time to apply the new stain or paint. This is where your vision for the room’s design comes to life!
There are many different finishes available to choose from, each of which creates a unique aesthetic. Navy blue cabinets paired with brass hardware for a classic contrast, timeless white for a bright and airy aesthetic, bold black for a sleek minimalistic feel, or any other color that best matches your kitchen’s decor.
In addition to choosing a color, it’s also essential to consider the finish type. There are several types of finishes available, including oil-based and water-based. Oil-based finishes require an oil-based primer, while water-based can be painted over with latex paints. To ensure the quality of your finish, hire a professional to complete the cabinet painting. N-Hance Wood Refinishing specializes in cabinet painting, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish that will last for years to come.
Another way to refresh your cabinets is by changing out the hardware. This simple step can make a huge impact on the overall look of your space. Wood or metal handles and pulls can add warmth and natural beauty to your cabinetry, while polished chrome or stainless steel offer a more contemporary appeal.