Painting the Inside of Cabinets for an Updated Look

Transforming the look of your kitchen doesn't require a full remodel. Simply painting the inside of your cabinets can provide an instant facelift that makes the space appear fresh, modern and inviting. Painting the interior surfaces is an affordable DIY project that allows you to change the color palette or revive worn cabinets without replacing them.

The key is proper preparation and technique to achieve an evenly painted interior that will hold up to constant use. By understanding the reasons to paint inside cabinets, following essential prep work, choosing the optimal paint and supplies, utilizing proper painting techniques, safely reassembling, and maintaining the finish, you can gain stylish, durable results.

Reasons to Paint Inside Cabinets

There are compelling benefits to painting the inside of kitchen cabinets:

• Refresh outdated or damaged cabinets - New paint hides flaws and provides a uniform, modern look.
• Brighten up a dark space - Lighter paint colors reflect light to open up the kitchen.
• Tie together mixed cabinets - Painting interiors creates cohesion.
• Change the color scheme - Interior paint allows modifying the aesthetic.
• Cover laminate damage - Paint adheres better and is more durable than new laminate.
• Cost-effective update - Much more affordable than full cabinet replacement.

Painting just the cabinet interiors is ideal if the cabinet boxes are structurally sound but the interior surfaces are worn, peeling, or an undesired color. It provides a cosmetic upgrade without replacing quality cabinetry. If the current cabinet layout also functions well, painting the interiors allows you to refresh the look without significant layout changes.

Prep Work for Painting

Proper prep work ensures the new paint adheres smoothly and provides an evenly painted surface. It also prevents drips or uneven coverage that looks sloppy and amateurish. The steps include:

• Remove doors, drawers, shelves and hardware - Allows full access to all interior surfaces.
• Clean thoroughly - Use a degreasing agent like TSP to remove grease, oils and residue.
• Sand surfaces - Roughs up glossy laminate to help the paint adhere.
• Fill holes and imperfections - Spackle ensures a smooth finish.
• Remove dust - Wipe all surfaces completely prior to priming or painting.

Prepping the cabinets takes time but is essential for getting clean, professional results. Remove as many cabinet parts as possible to fully access the interiors. Use drop cloths underneath to protect against drips and debris. Consider staging doors and shelves so you can easily reinstall them in the original configuration.

Choosing Paint and Supplies

Consider these factors when selecting interior cabinet paint:

• Oil or latex - Oil-based is more durable but takes longer to dry. Latex is faster.
• Sheen - Semi-gloss or high-gloss are easiest to clean.
• Color - Match existing finish or choose a fresh shade.
• Durability - High quality paint resists moisture, grease, frequent cleaning.
• Coverage - Optimal hide and color consistency in fewer coats.

Other essential supplies include:

• Primer - Helps paint adhere to slick surfaces like laminate.
• Paintbrush - Angled sash brush for cutting in.
• Paint roller - For broader application on flat surfaces.
• Painter's tape - Masks off edges for crisp paint lines.
• Drop cloths - Protect floors and countertops.

Investing in high quality primer and paint designed specifically for cabinets ensures you achieve a durable, professional finish that withstands frequent use and cleaning inside the cabinets.

Painting Techniques

Applying interior cabinet paint properly involves techniques like:

• Brushing - Works well for cutting in edges and smaller surfaces.
• Rolling - Applies broader coverage on larger flat areas.
• Spraying - Speeds application but creates messy overspray.
• Mask edges - Painter's tape gives crisp, straight paint lines.
• Multi-directional strokes - Reduces visible brush strokes.
• Thin coats - Prevent drips and runs, especially in vertical corners.
• Two coats minimum - Provides complete coverage.
• Lightly sand between coats - Smooths any drips or ridges.

Utilizing quality brushes and rollers designed for smooth paint application helps prevent visible brush strokes. Combining cutting in edges by brush with rolling larger expanses is fastest. Spray painting speeds up application but the overspray makes it messier. Apply in thin coats, allowing proper drying time between each to prevent drips or running paint.

Reinstalling Cabinet Doors and Hardware

Once the paint has fully cured, reassemble the cabinets by:

• Allowing proper dry time - Follow manufacturer guidelines, usually 24-48 hours.
• Replacing shelves and hardware - Use new shelf lining for a finished look.
• Checking drawers and doors - Ensure proper clearance and smooth operation.
• Reattaching doors - Confirm full closure and realign hinges if needed.
• Reinstalling knobs and pulls - Use new hardware to complement the fresh interior.

Rushing the reassembly can damage the paint finish. Give multiple coats sufficient time to fully cure before reinstalling drawers, doors, and hardware. Check that doors close properly without sticking. Ensure drawer runners are aligned so drawers glide smoothly. Change out old shelf lining and update knobs for a cohesive, finished look.

Caring for Painted Cabinets

To maintain the freshly painted interiors:

• Allow full paint cure time - Up to 30 days until it completely hardens.
• Use gentle cleaners - Avoid harsh chemicals that can prematurely damage the finish.
• Immediately clean spills - Prevent stains from setting before wiping up.
• Touch up worn areas - Spot paint any nicks, scrapes or wear to protect the wood.

The paint may feel dry to the touch within 24 hours but full curing takes longer. Allow at least 30 days before putting interior shelves, drawers and doors under heavy use. Always use mild cleaners and immediately wipe any spills. Spot paint minor damage to prevent moisture intrusion and additional wear.

Cost Factors

Variables impacting the cost and timeline of an interior cabinet paint project include:

• Paint and supplies - Higher quality paints cost more but provide superior coverage and durability.
• Size of kitchen - More cabinets equals more time for prep work and painting.
• Hiring a professional - Labor fees apply unless tackling as a DIY project.
• Spray equipment rental - Adds cost if renting sprayer and compressor.
• Extent of repairs - Filling gouges, holes or replacing laminate boosts costs.

Supply costs for paint, primer, brushes and other essentials range from $100-$300 on average. Professionals may charge $200-$500 per day in labor fees. While hiring a painter speeds the project, doing the prep work and painting yourself saves substantially on labor costs.