San Jose Cabinet Refinishing is a surface-only refurbishment that can be done on most types of cabinets and typically takes less time than refacing. It’s ideal for those who want a dramatic aesthetic change, but not quite as comprehensive as a refacing job would offer.
Start by cleaning the cabinets with soap, then sand and apply paint. Be sure to label the doors and drawer fronts so they go back in their proper spots.
Cabinet refinishing is the process of applying new paint, stain, or varnish to existing cabinet surfaces. The goal is to improve aesthetics and protect the wood from moisture and daily wear and tear. The process starts with sanding, which removes any existing finish and prepares the surface for a new coat. It requires the use of a variety of sandpaper grits, starting with rough sandpaper to strip away old paint and moving to finer grits for a smooth finish. This step is important and should not be rushed as it can damage the wood.
While sanding, it is important to inspect the work regularly and change out sandpaper as needed. Depending on the condition of your cabinets, you may need to switch to a finer grit or even skip the sanding stage and go straight to painting. It is also a good idea to use a vacuum or tack cloth to remove any remaining dust particles. This will ensure that your new coat of primer or paint adheres properly.
In addition to sanding, it is recommended that you thoroughly clean the cabinet doors. Using a degreaser such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) is a great way to eliminate any grease and oil that naturally builds up on surfaces over time. This will make the sanding and painting process much easier and ensure that your finished product is as attractive as possible.
Once the sanding process is complete, it’s time to use a quality wood filler to repair any dents or scratches on the surface of the cabinet door. Most of these products are water-based and are easy to apply. Just follow the instructions on the label to get the best results from your project.
It’s also a good idea to caulk any gaps between the cabinet doors and wall or around the base of the cabinet. This will help prevent moisture from seeping underneath the cabinet doors and causing damage. Once all of the preparation is done, it’s time to start the refinishing process. Start by removing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts and labeling them to avoid confusion during reassembly. Once all of the pieces are back in place, a fresh coat of paint or varnish will greatly enhance their appearance and add to their durability.
Cleaning
When painting cabinets it’s important to clean them properly. This ensures that the paint adheres well and it also protects the surface from damage. It’s also important to remove any hardware and doors before cleaning the cabinet. This allows you to reach all parts of the cabinet and makes it easier to reinstall later.
Using a mild soap and water is the best way to wash the cabinets. This will remove most of the dirt and dust. However, for more stubborn stains or grease, you may need to use a degreaser. A degreaser is a chemical solution that removes oils and grease from the surface of the wood. Degreasers are available at hardware and paint stores. It’s best to wear gloves and eye protection when using this type of cleaner. A good choice for a degreaser is trisodium phosphate (TSP). It emulsifies grease and makes it easier to wipe away.
Another option is mineral spirits. This is an odorless solvent that works to clean the surface of the cabinets before painting. It’s a little more expensive than other options, but it’s safe to use around the house and won’t leave any residue behind. Before applying any solvent, be sure to test it in an inconspicuous area to make sure that it won’t damage or discolor the cabinets.
Once the cabinets are cleaned, you’ll want to let them dry completely before moving on. This is especially important if you stacked them. You can speed up the drying process by running a fan in the room. Be sure to wipe the cabinet with a damp cloth or tack cloth to ensure that any remaining moisture is removed. If you’re using a fan, be sure to turn it off when the cabinets are finished so that the heat won’t cause the paint to dry too quickly.
Primer
After stripping and cleaning, kitchen cabinet surfaces need to be primed to prepare them for painting. A high-quality oil-based or latex primer is recommended for unstained wood, while a stain-blocking primer is ideal for stained surfaces. For a smooth finish, use a foam sanding block to lightly scuff the existing surface and promote adhesion. Once the surface is sanded, vacuum and wipe it clean to remove any sanding dust and lint.
Once your cabinet surfaces are free of sanding dust and lint, use a soft-bristled paintbrush to apply a coat of a quality interior primer such as KILZ 3(r) Premium Primer. A primer with excellent adhesion like this helps prevent chipping and peeling of the paint, especially in moisture-prone areas like your kitchen. It also offers stain-blocking to help protect against water and other liquids from seeping through the new paint.
Depending on your cabinet color and finish, you may need to apply additional coats of the primer, waiting between each one for proper dry time. Once the primer is dry, it’s time to begin painting. Start by applying a coat of the primer to the back sides of your cabinet doors, then flip them over and apply the first coat of paint to the fronts. When you’re applying the first coat, it is important to keep a wet edge, and try to avoid visible lap marks.
Once the cabinet doors are painted and dry, it’s a good idea to replace any hardware that you want to give your cabinets a fresh new look. Be sure to prime the metal hardware with a stain-blocking primer like BEHR(r) Multi-Surface Stain-Blocking Primer & Sealer, or KILZ 3(r) Premium Primer.
If you are refinishing your kitchen cabinets, a professional will ensure that the process is done correctly with minimal disruption to your home life and an outcome that adds value to your home. Lightmen Painting, with their specialized equipment and expertise, can complete your project in a fraction of the time that you could achieve on your own and guarantee a result that transforms your kitchen.
Painting
Once the sanding and priming are complete, it’s time to start painting. Use a foam roller for large, flat surfaces and a soft-bristled brush to get into tight spots and corners. Apply thin layers of paint, and wait in a well-ventilated area for the cabinets to dry between coats. This will reduce the chance of future chipping and peeling.
Aside from the color, it’s also a good time to replace any worn or outdated hardware. This small change can have a big impact on the overall look of your cabinets.
Most people only refinish the cabinet face frames, doors, and drawer fronts. It’s not necessary to refinish the interior of the cabinets. However, you can paint them a different color if desired.
Before applying the first coat of paint, it’s important to clean your cabinets thoroughly to remove any grease or dirt buildup. Use a degreaser like trisodium phosphate (TSP), followed by a thorough cleaning with soap and water.
If you’re refinishing the hinges, knobs, and pulls, it’s best to remove them from the cabinet door or drawer front and place them in a plastic bag. This will prevent you from accidentally getting any paint on them while you’re working.
When painting, it’s recommended to use a high-quality semi-gloss or gloss paint. This will give your cabinets a beautiful shine and provide a durable finish that will protect them from moisture and daily wear and tear.
Refinishing is the most cost-effective way to breathe new life into dated cabinetry, but it’s not the right choice for everyone. If you want a more dramatic, modern, or custom style, cabinet refacing may be the better option for you. This process allows you to alter the material, size, and style of your cabinetry, while still maintaining your existing hinges and cabinet boxes. For both refacing and refinishing, careful surface preparation, priming, and multiple coats of professional-grade paint are required to ensure that your new finishes will last for years to come.