How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets for a new look

If your kitchen needs a makeover, and your cabinets are still in good condition, you can consider painting your kitchen cabinets for a new look. Paint is one good way to refresh the look of your home, whether it's applied to your walls or furniture. Painting over your old kitchen cabinets also gives them a new protective finish. 

Here are 4 steps to paint your kitchen cabinets for an updated look:

1. Even the surface

First, prepare your surface by filling in any holes or cracks with nail-hole filler or plaster, using a putty knife. Lightly sandpaper the surface to get rid of debris.

2. Wipe with detergent

Wipe your kitchen cabinets with a mild detergent and let them dry thoroughly before painting.

3. Undercoat paint

Cover with a layer of undercoat to help the paint adhere better to the surface. It is recommended to apply two layers of paint over the undercoat. Allow paint to dry between coats - this may take a few days.

4. Choose easy to wash paints

Choose a paint that is low in volatile organic compounds, which can be wiped down easily and is stain-resistant — ideal qualities for kitchens.

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4 Pros & Cons of Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Deciding whether to paint kitchen cabinets or replace them with new ones involves considering various factors such as cost, time, effort, and the overall impact on your kitchen's appearance. Here are the pros and cons of painting kitchen cabinets as opposed to changing them out completely.

1. Cheaper

Replacing cabinets involves a higher upfront cost, including the price of new cabinets, installation, and potential additional expenses for changes to the layout or infrastructure.

Painting kitchen cabinets is significantly cheaper than replacing them. You save on the cost of new cabinets, labor, and potential changes to plumbing and electrical systems. If you choose to do it yourself, the costs are limited to paint, brushes, and possibly some new hardware.

2. Takes time & effort

Proper preparation for painting kitchen cabinets is crucial for a quality finish, including cleaning, sanding, and priming the cabinets. This can be time-consuming and labour-intensive.

Painting kitchen cabinets may take a few days, depending on the size of your kitchen and the drying time needed between coats. However, you can still use your kitchen while the painting project is ongoing, making it a less disruptive option compared to a full kitchen cabinet replacement.

3. Paint streak marks & drips

Achieving a smooth, professional finish can be challenging, especially if you lack painting experience. Brush marks, drips, and uneven coverage are common issues.

4. Less durable

Painted kitchen cabinets may show signs of wear and tear sooner than new cabinets, especially in high-traffic areas. They may require touch-ups or re-painting over time.

A set of new kitchen cabinets are likely to last longer than repainted ones, especially if they are made from high-quality materials. New kitchen cabinets typically require less maintenance and are more resistant to wear and tear.

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