Kitchen cabinets are one of the most prominent design features, and the choice of their design will considerably affect the mood of the kitchen. If your cabinets show signs of wear and tear or are just plain boring, you can always paint the cabinets to give the space a new look without spending too much money.
However, before you get your paint brushes and rollers ready, there are some factors that you need to take into consideration. Especially the material of your cabinet. Not all cabinets are suitable for painting, and trying to paint some materials may be unsatisfactory.
Laminate
Laminate is also widely used for kitchen cabinets because it is cheap and can withstand much pressure. Nonetheless, the laminate’s smooth and glossy nature makes it difficult for paint to stick to. If the paint does not adhere to the laminate properly, you will get issues of chalking, peeling, and an uneven surface. Some DIYers suggest that bonding primers should be used to achieve a better surface for paint application; however, the outcomes are unpredictable and lack the longevity you seek.
Thermofoil
Thermofoil is another pre-finished material like laminate. It is a thin vinyl layer laminated to a substrate, usually MDF (medium-density fiberboard). Thermofoil has more colors and styles than laminate, but like laminate, it has a smooth surface that paint won’t stick to. It is advised not to paint thermofoil cabinets; the outcome will be the same as laminating.
Low-Quality Cabinets
Thus, even if some of the low-cost cabinets are made of real wood, the quality of the wood may also determine its suitability for painting. Cabinets made from low-grade timber with a porous or uneven surface may not offer a good surface for painting. The paint may absorb unevenly, leading to uneven colouration or not sticking well, leading to paint chalking and peeling.
Cabinets with Existing Damage
If your cabinets are severely damaged by water, warped, cracked, or have deep scratches, painting may not be the best idea. Painting cannot remedy structural issues and can, in fact, reveal them. Major refurbishing work may be required before painting can be done. At times, it may be cheaper to replace the cabinets altogether.
Open-Grain Wood
Some woods, including oak and ash, are difficult to paint because their grain is very porous. The open grain can cause paint to stick unevenly, giving the product a grainy texture. Also, open-grain woods are usually more suitable for staining or bringing the wood grain out than for painting.
Alternatives to Painting
There are other methods of giving the kitchen a new look without painting. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Cabinet Refacing involves putting a new layer of veneer or laminate on the cabinet doors and frames. Refacing is less expensive than replacing and offers more designs than painting.
- Replacing the cabinet pulls and knobs can go a long way in changing the look of the cabinets without having to refinish them.
- Most of the time, your cabinets only require cleaning and polishing to restore their natural sheen.
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