Kitchen Cabinet Repainting and Refinishing
Due to the gradual wear and tear of everyday use as well as changes in styles and color trends, many homeowners decide to replace or update their kitchen cabinets. However, replacing an entire set of cabinetry can be a costly project. And so the question often arises:
Can I refinish or repaint kitchen cabinets?
Yes! Kitchen cabinetry comes with various finishes, veneers, or paints coatings. While the process of repainting or refinishing may be more or less involved depending on type and condition of the existing surface, painting your kitchen cabinets can be a great way to update an older kitchen and give a fresh look to this central room in your home.
Painting vs. Staining
Wooden cabinetry can be either stained or painted. Although the preparation required for staining a set of cabinets is often more significant than that which would be needed for repainting, stain can be an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets as it preserves the natural beauty of the wood’s texture. On the other hand, paint can provide excellent hide, covering over any blemishes in the wood.
Painting with Low VOC Paints
Another consideration in painting kitchen cabinets is the level of Volatile Organic Compounds (or VOCs) in the paint being used. VOCs are chemicals that evaporate into the air as paint dries and are responsible for the distinct odor of many paints. Painting with low or zero VOC paints is a great way to prevent unwanted odors in an area where food is prepared and/or consumed. Low VOC paints are also an eco-friendly option and are better for the environment at large.