Why Painting Your Cabinets Matters Just as Much as Painting Your Walls
Are your cabinets looking dated? Are they dark and dingy? If so, it is probably time for cabinet painting.
This article will discuss six reasons you should consider when deciding whether to paint your cabinets.
Six Reasons Why You Should Paint Your Cabinets
Painting your cabinets might not seem as exciting as giving your walls a fresh coat of paint, but it is a home improvement project that you should not underestimate. Painting your cabinets matters just as much as painting your walls.
Not only can paint extend the life of your cabinets, but it can also make maintenance a breeze. Newly painted cabinets will have more protection from wear and tear, look brand new, enhance the aesthetic of your space, and even increase your home's value. So, let's dive into why this seemingly small project packs such a big punch.
Extend the Cabinet’s Life
An average wood cabinet, no matter where you put it in the house, can last up to 20 years or more. But the wear and tear from everyday use and exposure to moisture from the kitchen sink and heat from cooking can take a toll on the wood or finish, shortening its service life.
Paints provide cabinets an extra layer of protection against the elements and their potential damage. A fresh coat of paint acts as a barrier and prevents moisture and other factors from seeping into the wood, which can lead to warping or rotting. This simple step can significantly extend the life of your cabinets, saving you money in the long run.
Make Maintenance a Breeze
Cabinets, especially those installed in the kitchen, are exposed to many things, such as grease, dust, and food particles. You have to prevent dirt and grime from building up because they can damage your cabinets and destroy the look and feel of a brand-new kitchen. You most likely spend a significant amount of time wiping down the cabinets after using your kitchen.
Applying a shiny paint finish to your cabinets will make cleaning easier. Painted surfaces are generally smoother and more resistant to stains and grease than bare wood or old, chipped paint. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth can keep your cabinets looking clean and vibrant. And when you choose a light color, it will be easier to notice when the cabinets need wiping.
Protect the Cabinets From Wear and Tear
Kitchen cabinets act as primary storage for food items. You open and close them nearly every day, which can take a toll on the material. Kitchen cabinets are also exposed to daily abuse of all kinds, such as accidental scratches, bumps, and dings.
By painting cabinets, you give them an extra layer of protection against these small but inevitable mishaps. This can be especially beneficial for families with young children or those who often use their kitchen for cooking and meal prep.
Make Your Cabinets Look Brand New
Maybe you are tired of your outdated, worn-out cabinets, but purchasing brand-new ones is not a priority because of their cost.
Painting your cabinets can be a budget-friendly alternative to buying new ones to achieve a stunning transformation for your space. You can choose from multiple paint colors and finishes to match your desired style—from classic whites to trendy blues and everything in between. A fresh coat of paint can give your cabinets a modern and updated look, making them look good as new without breaking the bank.
Enhance Aesthetics
Cabinets play a central role in the overall aesthetics of your kitchen or bathroom. Dull and dated cabinets can bring down the entire look of the space, even if you have beautifully painted walls.
On the other hand, well-painted cabinets can add a touch of elegance and style, making your space more inviting and pleasant. The color and finish you choose can complement your existing decor, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment.
Increase Your Home’s Value
If you ever consider selling your home, you'll be pleased to know that painting your cabinets can boost your property's value. Potential buyers are attracted to homes with updated and well-maintained kitchens and bathrooms.
By investing in cabinet painting, you make your home more attractive to potential buyers, increasing the likelihood of a higher selling price and a quicker sale. It's a relatively simple and cost-effective home improvement project that can yield significant returns in terms of the value of your property.
Cabinet Painting FAQs
What Do You Need to Know Before Painting Cabinets?
Before painting cabinets, a painter considers many factors, like the cabinet material, surface preparation, and paint type. It is important to choose a suitable primer and paint for durability and adhesion.
Proper preparation ensures a professional and long-lasting finish. So before applying paint, remove the hardware and clean things thoroughly before sanding the surfaces. Apply thin coats, allowing sufficient drying time between each.
How Often Do Painted Cabinets Need to Be Repainted?
The frequency of repainting your cabinets will depend on several factors, such as the quality of the paint used, the level of wear and tear, and the overall maintenance. Generally, well-crafted and properly maintained painted cabinets may require repainting every 5 to 10 years. Regular cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals can prolong the cabinets’ finish.
However, heavily used cabinets or those exposed to extreme conditions may need more frequent repainting to maintain their appearance and protection.
Does Painting Cabinets Increase Value?
Yes, painting your kitchen cabinets and installing new hardware can significantly increase your home’s value. But if your cabinetry is already in lousy condition, paint won’t do much, so it is better to replace it if you wish to sell your home at a higher price.
Should You DIY Cabinet Painting?
If you're looking to refresh your kitchen or bathroom without breaking the bank, DIY cabinet painting might seem appealing.
Before you decide to take the project on yourself, assess your skills and available time. Painting cabinets alone requires a lot of time. You'll need at least 40 hours to do the job right.
Next, you’ll need to gather the right tools and materials, including but not limited to sandpaper, paint, primer, brushes, drop cloths, and ladders.
You will also need to learn about the different types of paint to use because paint isn’t a one-size-fits-all material. It’s best to use paints that are specially formulated for kitchen or bathroom cabinets. Once you get all the materials ready, the next step would be preparing the cabinet, which includes removing doors and drawers and preparing the surfaces.
When it comes to applying the paint, you’ll need patience and attention to detail. If you have some experience with painting or woodworking, you're off to a great start. DIY cabinet painting allows you to unleash your creativity, giving your space a personal touch.
However, keep in mind that it can be a time-consuming task, and improper preparation or technique might lead to unsatisfactory results.
If you are unsure or overwhelmed, it’s best to leave the task to professionals like Anderson Painting. The team has been painting all kinds of surfaces for many years. We have the skills, knowledge, and necessary tools and equipment to give you a professional-looking paint finish.
In addition to cabinet painting, Anderson Painting offers interior and exterior painting for commercial and residential customers. If you don’t want to apply paint but want to add a layer of protection to your wooden features, our team also provides staining. No matter your needs, Anderson Painting has you covered.
Upgrade your property with paint today. Call Anderson Painting for more information or to get a quote.