Cabinets looking a bit worn? It may be time for a facelift. It’s expensive to replace them. Save money instead by adding a DIY fresh coat of paint or stain. Here’s how to tackle this project with ease.
Refinishing Versus Painting
Let’s take a brief look at the two main ways to spruce up the cabinets in your home.
Refinishing is the term used when the current stain or paint on cabinets is removed and a new coating is applied. The existing finish must be stripped with a chemical remover and sanding. Once the doors are ready, you can apply the new stain color of your choice.
Painting will give your cabinets a whole new look. It can also change the mood in the kitchen. Prep the doors and strip off the old paint. Use a roller or brush to apply a fresh coat. Latex paint is the best to use.
How to Choose
First, determine what style of finish you like and what will look good in your home. If you want a clean, modern look, it’s best to paint your cabinets. If you prefer a more natural, classic look, stain them. Staining highlights the natural grain of the wood. Make sure the wood is in good shape before you dive in.
Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchens get messy and it’s usually best to stain the cabinets. Stain lasts at least twice as long as paint does. Just remove any unwanted stains with water. Stain is also easier to touch up than paint and blends better with existing stain color.
Bathroom Cabinets
Paint is best for bathroom cabinets. Many paint colors are available and it’s easy to find one to match your bathroom design. Bathrooms have a lot of traffic. Pick a paint that’s durable, waterproof, or water resistant.
Types of Wood Cabinet Stain
Stained cabinetry is becoming a very popular option. Staining really shows off the texture of the wood and is much easier to do than painting. Here are some types of stains you can choose from.
Natural Wood Stain. This adds a subtle luster to the natural wood grain patterns. A clear stain can lighten up a darker tone or create a rustic look when the original varnish is stripped.
Gray/Blue Stains. This cool, neutral hue has surged in popularity. A silver tone can highlight the raw characteristics of wood cabinets. A blue stain provides a hint of blue. It’s a great choice if you want a neutral look with a pop of color.
Dark Stains. A hue like a deep brown is traditional, classic, and adds mood and warmth to a space. Darker stains go well with lighter, cool colors.
White Stains. This neutral hue is calming and stylish. A white wood stain works well in white kitchens.
Final Tips
If your cabinets are in good shape, refinishing is the way to go. Painting or staining is much less expensive than a full-scale kitchen renovation. It’s also important to keep your home updated so its value stays high.
Leave the Updating to the Pros
Ready to freshen up your home interior or your business space? Turn to the professionals at D & L Enterprises for help. Our services range from painting and home finishing services to wallpaper removal and power washing. Based in Eldersburg, D & L Enterprises has been serving central Maryland since 1988. Let us transform your space.