Painting your cabinets is one of the easiest ways to give your kitchen a whole new look without doing a complete remodel. Freshly painted cabinets will transform the entire room from white cabinets to any shade you want.
If you take on this project yourself, it can be a very inexpensive task. However, to prevent paint from peeling and cabinets from looking dirty in the future, you’ll want to avoid some common mistakes when painting cabinets.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common mistakes to avoid when painting cabinets.
Underestimating the amount of time it will take
Painting kitchen cabinets is often considered a simple task; although it’s not an extensive renovation, you should spend more time than expected to complete the project. Remember that you’ll probably need to apply several coats of paint and that each coat should dry for a few hours. To do a good job, it’s recommended to plan at least an entire weekend, if not a whole week.
Not Removing the Doors
It may be possible to apply a new coat of paint without removing the cabinet doors; however, removing them is essential to get the best results. This will prevent drips and allow you to paint all the surfaces of the cabinet, inside and out. Additionally, if you keep the cabinet doors out of the way, such as in a garage or separate location, you will be less likely to bump into them while the paint dries.
Skipping the proper prep work
One of the biggest mistakes is not taking the time to properly understand what it takes to prepare the cabinets for painting. Repainting kitchen cabinets may seem like a do-it-yourself job, but it is a complicated, time-consuming project that, if not done right, can look worse in just a few months.
Before you begin painting, most cabinets require sanding the surface, filling any cracks or uneven areas with wood putty, and letting it dry. Once sanded, use a damp or lint-free tack cloth to remove all dust and debris. Any small particles that aren’t wiped away can seep into the paint and ruin the cabinet’s otherwise pristine surface.
Not Cleaning Cabinets Thoroughly
If you don’t plan on sanding your cabinets, you can also wash them with a dish soap and water solution before applying paint. The doors will likely have grease and grime on them, and you should never paint over them, as the paint won’t adhere properly if you do.
Applying Thick Coats of Paint
When painting kitchen cabinets, the goal is to create a durable surface that will withstand daily use. The best way to enhance the surface is with several thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat that can peel off more easily. Patience and waiting for the recommended drying time between coats will pay off with a durable finish.
Using the Wrong Paint Finish
A slightly glossy paint finish is ideal for making cabinets easier to clean. Avoid matte paint and opt for semi-gloss or satin.
