If you’re like most people, the cabinets in your home or business get a lot of use. They may be starting to look a bit worn, or you may just be ready for a change. Either way, staining or painting your cabinets can give them new life and add personality to your space. Here are some tips to help you decide whether staining or painting is right for you, and what type of paint or stain to use:
- If your cabinets are made of natural wood, staining them will allow the grain to show through and give them a rich, warm look.
- Paint is a great option if you want to change the color of your cabinets, or if you’re looking for a more durable finish.
- If you have cabinets in high-use areas like the kitchen or bathroom, consider using a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint for easy cleaning.
- For both stain and paint, make sure to prep the surface by cleaning it well and sanding down any rough spots. This will help the new finish adhere better and last longer.
Want someone with the experience to help you decide, and the crew to do it all for you? Then reach out to us here at JLM Painting. We can help paint or stain your cabinets at home, or at the office, anywhere in or around Sonoma and Marin counties!
Decide on a Paint or Stain Color
When you are painting or staining cabinets, it is important to first decide on a color. You may want to match the existing colors in your kitchen, or you may want to create a new look entirely. If you are unsure of what color to choose, consider calling us for help. We offer paint color consultation and can help you pick out the perfect color to get the results you want.
Choose a Finish
There are a few things to consider when choosing a finish for your cabinets. The first is the overall look you are trying to achieve in the room. If you want a more modern look, then a high-gloss paint may be the best option. If you are going for a more traditional feel, then a stain might be the way to go. Keep in mind that stains can be tricky to apply evenly, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your skill level and knowledge, or plan on hiring a professional from the start.
Another thing to consider is how easy the finish will be to maintain. High-gloss finishes tend to show fingerprints and smudges more easily, so if you’re not prepared to constantly wipe down your cabinets, then this might not be the right option for you. Stains can also be difficult to touch up if they start to wear down over time. So, if you’re looking for something that will last longer with less upkeep, then paint may be the better choice.
Finally, think about what kind of surface you want your finish to protect. If your cabinets are made of high-quality wood that you want to show off, then a stain might be the best way to go. But if your cabinets are made of lower-quality materials or if you’re just looking for an extra layer of protection against wear and tear, then paint might be the better option.
Prep the Surface and the Room
Whether you are staining or painting your cabinets, it is important to prep the surface and the room. If you are painting, remove all hardware and tape off any areas that you do not want paint to get on. If you are staining, remove the doors and drawers and sand down the surfaces. It is also important to cover your floors and any other surfaces in the room that you do not want to get stain or paint on.
Paint or Stain the Cabinets
Many homeowners opt to paint or stain their cabinets to give their kitchen or bathroom an updated look. If you decide to do it yourself, follow these tips for best results:
- Sand the cabinets thoroughly before painting or staining to create a smooth surface
- Use a primer before painting to help the paint adhere better and last longer
- When staining, use a pre-stain conditioner to help the stain penetrate evenly
- Finish with a top coat of polyurethane or lacquer for extra durability and shine
- If painting, use a high-quality paint designed specifically for cabinets
Let the Paint or Stain Dry
Once you have finished applying the paint or stain to your cabinets, it is important to let it dry completely before moving on to the next step. Depending on the type of paint or stain you used, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. If you are in a hurry, you can always ask the professionals here at JLM Painting to do it for you! We can also give you an idea of how long it will be before you can realistically use your cabinets.
Reattach the Hardware
Once your cabinets are thoroughly dry, it is time to reattach any hardware that was there, or new hardware if you updated. Here are the steps.
First, make sure the new paint or stain is completely dry. Then, using a screwdriver or other appropriate tool, reattach all the handles, pulls, and knobs to their respective locations. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can strip the finish or damage the wood.
To Get Your Cabinets Painted or Stained For You, Call JLM Painting Today!
When it comes to cabinets, there are two ways to change their color – stain or paint. And while painting is less work in the long run, staining can give your cabinets a beautiful, natural finish that enhances the wood grain. If you’re not sure which route to take, let our experience help guide you so you can get the results you are hoping for.
If you want an easy way to change your cabinet’s color with less prep work, then painting them is the way to go. We will work with you to help you choose the paint color you want, and we will take care of the rest. Painting is also a good option if you want to cover up dark stains or damage on your cabinets.
Staining your cabinets is a bit more work than painting them, but it’s worth it if you want to show off the natural beauty of the wood grain. Plus, stained cabinets are easier to touch up than painted ones – so if they get nicked or scratched, it’s no big deal. Just remember that when staining cabinets, always test the stain on a hidden area first to make sure it’s the color you want.
Still not sure which route to take? Give us a call at JLM Painting, and we would be happy to help you decide whether painting or staining your cabinets is right for you. We can even take care of the project for you – so you don’t have to worry about a thing!