4 Steps For Re-finishing Your Kitchen Cabinets

By Author: Jason Delmar
Total Articles: 335
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When it comes to the kitchen, one of the first things you usually notice is the cabinets. You definitely want to ensure that they look great when you are decorating the kitchen area. You don't have to go with brand new cabinets, but you can make your old ones look incredible by painting them. While you can go with a professional, another option that is cheaper is to do them yourself. If you decide to do it yourself, here are some quick steps to get ready.

Tip #1 - Take Off all the Hardware

It may sound like common sense, but the first step for starting your project will be to remove the hardware. In most cases, simply replacing the hardware with a more updated look will give your kitchen an entirely different look. Use a screwdriver or a drill and take off the hinges on the doors and then take them down. Make sure you mark them so you know where they are supposed to go. Then you can paint the doors on a flat surface. Make sure any handles or knobs are taken off as well. You can put this hardware back on later or you can totally replace the hardware with options that will go along with your new color of choice.

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... #2 - Get the Surface Prepared

Once you have all the hardware off the kitchen cabinets, then you need to prepare the surface before you can paint them. Depending on the finish already on them, you can sand them down or strip them. If there is a clearcoat finish, you may need to strip them with a chemical. You can also clean and sand cabinets to get rid of finish as well. Preparation is key to the stain or paint adhering/absorbing. If the cabinets are not properly prepped, it could result in streaking or poor coloration.

Tip #3 - Choose Your Paint

Now it's time to choose the paint for your cabinets. You can choose from oil based paints and latex paints. The latex will dry faster and it's easier to clean up too, but the oil based paint will be more durable for the cabinets. An oil-based paint will produce a smoother finish with less streaking or lines. Usually it is better to go with a gloss finish for the paint since it offers great protection and also cleans up nicely. Make sure you go with paint of high quality to make sure your cabinets turn out looking great.

Tip #4 - Get the Right Tools

When it comes to getting the best finish possible, using the right tools will be the key. For a surface like cabinets, rollers are not always the best way to go. A high quality brush or even a spray finish will produce much better results. When you go with a brush, usually a couple thin coats will give you a nice finish. If you decide you want to spray the cabinets, then you'll need to rent the equipment and spray with a motion that is rapid and smooth.
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