Repaint Kitchen Cabinets - Before and After Tips

Dreary, dated kitchen cabinets got you down? Before you rip them out or shell out for a pricey replacement, consider repainting as an affordable shortcut to a fresh, updated look.

With some prep work, primer, and a couple coats of paint, even the most tired, worn cabinets can be transformed into a modern centerpiece for your kitchen.

Why Repaint Kitchen Cabinets

A coat of paint is an easy weekend project that can give cabinets a major facelift for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. Here's why a repaint may be the budget-friendly refresh your kitchen needs:

• Make your kitchen appear refreshed and updated instantly
• Much more affordable than replacing or refacing cabinets
• Great way to change color or style without remodeling
• Hide scratches, blemishes, damage and signs of wear
• DIY project to customize your kitchen on a budget

With hundreds or even thousands saved compared to new cabinets, repainting is a smart revamp for rental properties or before selling your home. Even if you plan future renovations, a new color paint job buys you time and updates the look in the meantime.

Should You Paint or Replace Cabinets?

Before breaking out the paint brushes, consider whether repainting cabinets is the right move or if replacement makes more sense:

• Assess the current condition - are cabinets structurally sound or severely damaged?
• Evaluate functionality - does the layout still work or need adjustments?
• Compare cost of repainting vs. new budget-friendly cabinets.
• Decide if you want to change style, add storage or alter the footprint.

Repainting makes sense if cabinets are in good shape but look dated or worn. This transforms the look economically. But if cabinets are falling apart or layout changes better suit your lifestyle, replacement may be the better turnkey solution.

Pros of Repainting vs. New Cabinets

• Cost - Repainting is up to 75% cheaper than new cabinets.
• Time - Painting takes 1-3 days rather than weeks for replacement.
• Disruption - Painting is less invasive with minimal demolition.
• Customization - Painting allows you to choose any color imaginable.

Cons of Repainting vs. New Cabinets

• Durability - Painted finishes won't be as durable as wood or thermofoil.
• Imperfections - Paint highlights flaws rather than concealing them.
• Maintenance - Painted cabinets show wear and require more upkeep.
• Resale - Painted cabinets may limit appeal vs. new ones.

Analyze your goals, timeframe and budget to decide if repainting or replacement makes the most sense. A fresh coat of paint can buy you time before a larger remodel down the road.

Prep Work for Repainting Cabinets

Preparation work is crucial for a smooth, professional paint job that will hold up for years. Here are essential steps:

1. Remove cabinet doors, drawers and hardware. Set hinges and pulls aside so you can easily reattach later.
2. Clean cabinet boxes and doors thoroughly to remove grease and grime. Degrease again after sanding.
3. Lightly sand to scuff the surface and help paint adhere. Don't strip completely.
4. Fill any holes, scratches or imperfections with wood filler and let dry completely.
5. Use painter's tape to cover any adjacent surfaces not being painted like walls or countertops.

Remove shelves and drawers from cabinet boxes if possible. Number pieces and doors with painter's tape so it's easy to replace everything correctly later. Lay doors on sawhorses or across chairs to paint.

Invest time in cleaning, sanding and prepping properly, as this leads to better paint adhesion and a smooth finish. After sanding, wipe cabinets with a deglosser or tack cloth. Using a liquid deglosser helps remove existing grease and residue while a tack cloth picks up fine dust.

Cleaning Cabinets Before Painting

Thorough cleaning is a must before painting cabinets for long-lasting results. Follow these steps:

1. Remove all shelves, drawers and doors from cabinets.
2. Wash cabinet boxes and doors with a grease-cutting dish soap and warm water.
3. Rinse soap residue and let dry completely.
4. Spray cabinets with a liquid deglosser and let sit for 10 minutes.
5. Scrub boxes and doors with a cleaning pad or abrasive sponge.
6. Rinse deglosser residue and allow to fully dry.

Repeat washing and deglossing after sanding to remove all dust. Proper prep removes contaminants that could ruin paint adhesion and cause chipping or peeling later on.

Choosing Cabinet Paint

With all the cabinet paint options out there, it can be tricky to pick the right one for your kitchen and goals. Consider these factors when selecting paint:

• Sheen - Glossier paints offer a harder, more wipeable finish.
• Durability - Enamel and epoxy paints hold up better than acrylics and latex.
• Ease of use - Water-based paints clean up easier but don't seal as well.
• Finish - Certain paints produce smooth vs. textured finishes.

Types of Cabinet Paint

Some top contenders include:

• Oil-based enamel - Hard, stain-resistant finish.
• Acrylic enamel - Durable, slick finish that dries quickly.
• Latex paint - Budget-friendly, easy touch-ups but less durable.
• Chalk paint - Popular for distressed, vintage look.
• Epoxy paint - Most durable option but requires skill to apply.

For most kitchens, oil-based or acrylic enamel in a semi-gloss sheen provides the ideal mix of wipeable finish and easy application. Talk to your local paint store experts for personalized product recommendations.

When selecting cabinet paint, opt for a durable latex or acrylic formula in a semi-gloss or gloss sheen. Oil-based enamel also delivers an ultra smooth finish. For a distressed paint technique, milk paint or chalk-based paint adheres well.

Follow paint manufacturer's instructions for drying times between coats. Here are some tips for the painting process:

• Apply a primer coat first for the best finish.
• Use an angled trim brush to reach narrow spaces and corners.
• Roll or brush paint on evenly, avoiding drips and brush strokes.
• Apply at least two finish coats for solid coverage.
• Spray paint detached hardware like hinges, pulls and knobs for a polished look.

If spraying cabinets, do so in a well-ventilated area and tent off the kitchen with plastic sheeting. Spray in thin coats to avoid drips. For brush painting, use a high-quality china bristle brush.