Everywhere we look these days, it seems everyone has trendy painted cabinets in their homes. Or, at the very least, popular image websites would have us believe… the thing is, painting cabinets may not be the best long-term solution for a cabinet renovation.
Cabinets You Shouldn’t Paint Over… And Why
Detailed Patterns, Warped or Damaged Cabinets
If your cabinets have detailed patterns or they are warped, chipped, cracked or have other damage to them, then painting your kitchen cabinets is not the way to go – it most definitely won’t solve your cabinet problem. There is also an excellent chance the paint will crack at the joints from expansion/contraction of the wood.
Open-Grained Wood Cabinets
If your cabinets are made from open-grained wood, this is advised against for painting. Open-grained wood looks much rougher and rustic, possibly with holes and grooves, which means they will need a filler to even them out… which means yikes – not a fun project. If your cabinets are made from poplar, they probably have a few dents in them. This is because poplar dents and is not a great choice for painting – unless you want to showcase those dents.
Hard Maple & Oak Cabinets
Cabinets made from oak—also an open-grain—should never be painted. Once painted, the open grain of oak will give your cabinets an orange peel appearance and feel to them.
Hard maple cabinets are another one to avoid painting as they change with the humidity and cooking can wreak havoc on these cabinets.
Non-Wood Material Cabinets
Cabinets that aren’t solid wood—those made of stainless steel, vinyl, laminate, engineered wood, or any other non-solid wood material—are a much bigger task to undertake as they aren’t as easy to paint. Paint will not adhere to the finished cabinet surface easily and will often peel off or chip.
The best cabinets to paint are tight-grained wood cabinets, however, they are not always easy to come by.
Things to Avoid When Painting Cabinets
We’re making it simple for you and giving you a checklist of what not to do and what not to use… so if you are set on painting your cabinets, please keep these tips in mind:
- Chalk Paint: Cabinets are too high-use and chalk paint isn’t the man for the job.
- Sealing them with Wax: Wax will not hold up over time and should you ever want to update your cabinets again, you’ll have to remove the wax and start all over.
- Just Say No to Cheap Paint and Tools: If you want a smooth, finished look for your cabinets, splurge on the good stuff.
- Rubber Feet: After your paint job is finished, use felt feet on your cabinet doors and drawers instead of rubber ones. Rubber feet may stick to your new paint job.
Hopefully, these tips and tricks make your decision on saying yes or no to painting your cabinets. If you are looking to replace your cabinets, find ready-to-assemble and pre-assembled cabinets online at The RTA Store.
FAQs
If your cabinets are made from poplar, they probably have a few dents in them. This is because poplar dents and is not a great choice for painting – unless you want to showcase those dents. Cabinets made from oak—also an open-grain—should never be painted.
What type of cabinet shouldn't you paint? ›
Another type of cabinet that should not be painted is laminate cabinets. Also, a lower quality cabinet (although better than Thermofoil), laminate cabinets are made similarly. They consist of a thin layer that is over the core. While laminate doors are generally better than Thermofoil, neither will paint very well.
When not to paint cabinets? ›
If your cabinets are warped, chipped, or have other damages then painting them won't solve your problem. Many people fail to recognize this then go forward and paint the cabinets anyway. They are almost always disappointed with the results.
Can you paint all types of cabinets? ›
Cabinet material is also an important consideration. Wood, wood laminate, veneer, fiberboard, and even metal cabinets can be repainted without difficulty. However, plastic laminate and thermofoil cabinets might require special paints and techniques that will be more conducive to paint adhesion.
Is it bad to paint over wood cabinets? ›
Wood cabinets are ideal for painting, but any surface that can be scuffed with sandpaper can be painted. Laminate cabinets require a special bonding primer. The laminate must be in good condition for best results.
What is the downside to painting kitchen cabinets? ›
Potential For Obscuring Wood Details
Painted kitchen cabinets can hide the unique characteristics and natural beauty of wood, which could be considered a significant drawback for those who treasure these details.
Does painting cabinets devalue a home? ›
Painting your cabinets can make a substantial difference to the value and allure of your home. It's an affordable, yet transformative project that not only refreshes your space but can also considerably increase its market value.
Are painted cabinets going out of style? ›
It has never gone away completely and, based on results from the 2023 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, has actually returned in full force to become one of today's most sought-after designs. If you want a modern-looking kitchen that will remain relevant far into the future, white-painted cabinets are a safe choice.
What color kitchen cabinets are low maintenance? ›
Steer clear of finishes that show fingerprints and water spots like stainless steel or chrome. They're also harder to clean. Oil-rubbed bronze, satin bronze, brushed or polished nickel and white hardware are all much easier to maintain. Choose the finish that matches your style and kitchen design.
Can white shaker cabinets be painted? ›
For the best results on shaker cabinets, we recommend using high-quality, self-leveling paint. This type of paint will give you a smooth, professional-looking finish. Additionally, it's important to use a good primer before painting to ensure proper adhesion of the paint and durability of the finish.
While paint will stick to laminate cabinets, it's important to sand and prime them first. If not properly sanded and primed, the paint will peel or chip soon after it's applied.
What do professional painters use to paint kitchen cabinets? ›
Kitchen cabinets are painted in industrial settings with industrial-grade paints and equipment that sprays the paint onto the wood surface with high velocity. It is usually lacquer or enamel-type oil-based paint and it might have undergone an additional curing process.
What happens if you don't sand cabinets before painting? ›
Can You Paint Over Cabinets Without Sanding? Skipping the sanding step is OK if you're making a change from one newly painted surface to another, or painting raw, unvarnished wood cabinets.
What kind of kitchen cabinets cannot be painted? ›
Cabinets made from oak—also an open-grain—should never be painted. Once painted, the open grain of oak will give your cabinets an orange peel appearance and feel to them. Hard maple cabinets are another one to avoid painting as they change with the humidity and cooking can wreak havoc on these cabinets.
How long will painted cabinets last? ›
Professionally painted cabinets can last anywhere from eight to 15 years. However, the finish will only last this long if the job was done properly. Using higher-quality paint will also ensure that the paint job lasts longer; cheaper paints may start to chip after a few years.
Should you put polyurethane over painted cabinets? ›
A polyurethane varnish finish can cut down on the wear and tear of kitchen cabinets, help keep them looking new and extend the life of the cabinets. Polyurethane works best on unfinished wood but can also be painted directly onto painted surfaces.
Can cabinets that are not wood be painted? ›
Laminate isn't an ideal surface to paint, but it can be done. If you consider the paint job a temporary solution until you can invest in new cabinetry, you'll probably be more satisfied with the results. Follow these steps for how to paint laminate cabinets to get the best finish possible.
Is painting oak cabinets a good idea? ›
If your home has older, dated cabinets and you're thinking you want to replace them to make the space more modern, think again. You can paint your oak cabinets in a way that will make them look professionally made! The great thing about this option is that even if you're a beginner, you can totally do it!
What color cabinets will never go out of style? ›
Timeless cabinet colors include neutral shades like white, cream, beige, taupe, gray, or greige. Navy, black, and forest green cabinets can look timeless when paired with classic finishes and fixtures.
Should cabinets be painted flat or satin? ›
A satin cabinet finish is more long lasting and provides slightly less reflectiveness. Such features gives the material a brighter finish compared to matte. When applied to kitchen custom cabinets, it will result in a soft, silky, and a little glowy appearance.
