Your kitchen cabinets may need a little TLC to look updated. Adding a fresh coat of paint or stain can make the world of difference!
Oil-based alkyd paints dry to a hard, durable finish that resists scratches. However, they have a long dry time and strong odor and require mineral spirits for cleanup. Contact San Jose Cabinet Refinishing for more information.
Oil-based
Oil-based paints have long been a staple in the painting industry, prized for their durable finish and hardiness. But they’re slowly being phased out in favor of more environmentally friendly options. Oil-based paints require a thorough prep process and take longer to dry between coats, so it’s important to plan ahead if you’re considering them for your project. And they can emit noxious fumes that are hazardous to your health, so be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and use protective gear like gloves and a mask.
Despite their drawbacks, oil-based paints offer durability and rich color that water-based alternatives can’t match. They’re a good choice for high-traffic areas, such as trim and cabinets. If you’re unsure whether or not an oil-based product is right for you, consult with your contractor or consider a hybrid alkyd enamel paint. These types of paints, like Sherwin Williams Urethane Trim Enamel, are formulated with the durability of traditional oil-based paints but can be cleaned up using water instead of harsh chemicals.
As for staining, the product you choose will depend on the look you’re going for. A transparent stain will accentuate the grain of the wood for a natural look, while a semi-transparent gel stain will provide added protection. If you’re looking to bring out the rich colors of your wood, try a dark stain such as No Pain Gel Stain in walnut or espresso.
To ensure the best results, use a quality brush, foam roller, or paint sprayer. And be sure to clean up your brushes and tools immediately after use. Finally, it’s crucial to prepare your workspace for painting, removing appliances and covering surfaces with drop cloths. It’s also helpful to make arrangements for children and pets to be out of the way while you’re working.
Water-based
Water-based paints are a popular choice for cabinet painting projects, delivering a powerful combination of performance, durability, and versatility. These products also provide a faster turn-around than oil-based options, making them an ideal option for homeowners who need a quick kitchen renovation. However, not all water-based paints are created equal, and understanding the differences can make a huge difference in your results.
Acrylic, latex, and hybrid paints all offer different qualities that impact their performance on various cabinet materials. Choosing the right one for your project requires consideration of your budget, cabinet condition, and desired aesthetic.
Water based paints dry quickly and have fewer volatile organic compounds (VOC) than oil-based products, making them an eco-friendly choice for many homeowners. They also require less surface preparation and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. However, these benefits come with some trade-offs. Acrylic and latex paints tend to be less durable than oil-based alternatives, and they can yellow over time. Hybrid paints, on the other hand, provide improved durability and have a self-leveling quality that minimizes brush marks for a smooth finish.
Regardless of the type of paint you choose, proper application is essential to a lasting result. Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets with a strong degreaser, then sanding to roughen the surface for better adhesion and a smoother finish. Primer is also critical, even if the label says it’s not necessary. Apply thin coats and allow each to dry fully between applications for maximum durability.
Several common mistakes can detract from your finished product, including orange peel texture, visible brush strokes, and an uneven finish. Proper surface prep, the use of a high-quality foam roller, and thinner coats can prevent these issues. If you’re unsure of your ability to achieve professional-looking results, hiring professionals may be worth the investment.
Matte
A popular paint choice for kitchen cabinets and trim, matte finishes offer a subtle sheen that hides flaws and imperfections well. It’s also moisture-friendly, meaning it doesn’t show marks from scrubbing and cleaning as easily as satin or gloss.
However, matte paint does have some drawbacks. It isn’t as durable as other finishes and can be prone to smudges and scratches from moisture. It’s also not as easy to clean, so it is best used in spaces that don’t experience a lot of hands-on activity and mess.
The good news is that there are a few new hybrid oil-based paints available on the market that combine the best of both worlds. Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane is a great example of this and offers the ease of use, quick dry time and no odor of traditional oil-based paints while offering a durable finish. It’s a bit more expensive than the fancy, water-based hybrids but it really is worth the investment as far as cabinet and trim painting goes!
The beauty of matte paint is that it can be paired with satin or semi-gloss finishes to provide a variety of aesthetics for your space. Its muted sheen creates a soft and serene look that’s perfect for bedrooms, living spaces and offices while minimizing the glare from overhead lighting. For a more polished look, try pairing it with satin on trim and doors or even accent walls. Just be sure to properly prepare the surface and apply it carefully to avoid any bleed through from stained or raw woods. Otherwise, a satin finish can highlight surface imperfections and can be difficult to clean without damaging the sheen.
Satin
A satin finish has a soft, pearl-like sheen and is more durable than matte paint. The slight sheen repels dirt and moisture, which makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, children’s rooms, and kitchens. It’s also a smart option for bathrooms, as it will stand up to bumps, splashes, and finger marks more easily than matte or semi-gloss paint. The downside to satin is that it will highlight flaws and dings in walls, so a thorough prep is important to ensure that your paint job looks its best.
If you want a satin finish for your cabinets, we recommend Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel paint. This product is a water-based paint, so it dries faster than oil-based paints and won’t yellow over time. It also has a self-leveling property that helps to hide brush or roller marks, which will give your cabinets an even and beautiful finish.
When choosing a sheen, it’s also a good idea to test your paint color in two different sheens. This will help you decide which sheen is right for your space and allow you to see how the colors look in the light. Once you’ve made your decision, our professional painters will help you execute your plan and create a stunning result that stands the test of time.
As always, our team is happy to answer any questions you may have about paints and finishes. We have experience guiding our clients through the pros and cons of each option, so we’ll help you make an informed decision that works for your unique home. We look forward to partnering with you!
Semi-gloss
Typically used on baseboards, doors and windows casings, crown molding, and cabinets, semi-gloss paint offers the perfect balance of durability and visual appeal. Its higher sheen reflects light to brighten spaces and highlights architectural details, while its moisture resistance makes it ideal for high-traffic areas that require frequent cleaning. While glossier paints highlight surface damage more easily, a thorough prep process and careful application can help you achieve a smooth, blemish-free finish.
The sheen of the finish you choose will also have a significant impact on how well the paint holds up to daily use. Satin is more durable than eggshell and provides a subtle sheen that hides imperfections, making it an excellent choice for furniture. Semi-gloss is the most popular choice for cabinetry, as it’s both durable and easy to clean. However, the sheen isn’t as durable as other finishes such as eggshell or satin, so it may need more frequent touch-ups to keep looking new.
When choosing a semi-gloss paint, look for one that offers a water-based alkyd blend or acrylic formula. These types of paints dry quickly and have a low odor, making them easier to work with than oil-based products.
If you decide to go with a semi-gloss, be sure to sand your cabinets and prime before you apply the final coat. A good sanding with 120-grit paper will help create a rough surface for the primer and reduce brush strokes, leaving you with a professional-looking finish.
As for the paint itself, Wise Owl’s One Hour Enamel is a fantastic option because it dries fast and leaves a durable, abrasion-resistant finish. It’s a little pricey but it really is worth the investment!
