Cabinet refinishing is the best choice for those who want to restore their cabinets’ original appearance or give them a fresh new look at a fraction of the cost of replacement. It starts with a thorough cleaning and degreasing of the cabinet surfaces.
It’s also limited to the existing structure and design of your cabinet doors and boxes; if you want a major style change, refacing is better for you. Contact San Jose Cabinet Refinishing for professional help.
Cabinets take the brunt of everyday use, accumulating dents and scratches that mar their surface. Wood filler, a process similar to sculpting with putty, is used to fill these imperfections, creating a smooth repairable surface. Cabinets are then sanded down to create a smooth, even finish before they can be painted or stained. This is one of the most labor-intensive parts of a refinishing job and can take up to three days. The sanding time is critical because it helps ensure that the new stain or paint will adhere properly.
A good quality primer is also essential. It provides a smooth base, improves adhesion and helps prevent peeling and chipping in high-traffic areas like kitchens. It should be chosen specifically for your cabinet material, and it should be applied in thin coats with a brush or roller, according to the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times. A shellac-based primer is a great choice for wood cabinets, as it offers superior adhesion and stain blocking, especially in moisture-prone areas.
Before beginning any work on your cabinets, it’s important to thoroughly assess them to make sure they are a good candidate for refinishing. It’s not the right solution for swollen or warped wood, or major structural damage. It’s also not an option for laminate or thermofoil, which cannot be sanded or stripped.
Before refinishing begins, it’s important to provide your technicians with easy access and a clean workspace. You should be available to answer any questions they may have and make sure that you can provide a clear description of your vision for the finished product. You should also be available throughout the refinishing process to help them stay on track and to address any concerns that might arise. This will help keep the project moving smoothly and ensuring that it is completed within the expected timeline. It will also prevent the need for unnecessary rework, which can increase the cost and lengthen the timeline of your project. In this way, a little bit of preparation at the beginning can save you a lot of hassle down the road.
Stripping
Cabinet refacing and refinishing are both great options for changing the look of your cabinets without having to completely replace them. However, refacing and refinishing differ in how they approach your cabinet doors and drawer fronts while leaving the existing cabinet box frames intact. Refacing is the most expensive option, but it can give your cabinets a more dramatic transformation. Cabinet refinishing is a less expensive option, but it can take longer and require a lot of patience and attention to detail.
Both approaches to updating your cabinet’s style involve a thorough cleaning and sanding of the surface to ensure that the new paint will stick. To accomplish this, it is important to use a high-quality sandpaper, as coarser grit will leave scratches on the surface of your wood. For this reason, it is best to do this step before applying any other finishing products to your cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
Once your workspace is prepared and you’ve carefully read all the product instructions for your chosen stripper, begin by applying a generous layer to the surface of your cabinets. Using a brush can help ensure an even coat. After applying the stripper, let it sit for the recommended time, which can be as little as 30 minutes or up to 24 hours depending on the product.
During this time, the stripper will start to work, lifting away layers of paint and varnish. If you’re unsure when it’s ready to be scraped, test it by lightly attempting to remove a small area of paint. If it starts to bubble and lift, it’s time to get to work.
If you have an extremely stubborn coating, a scotch pad dipped in the stripper can be used to scrub it away. Once you’re able to scrape off the majority of the paint, wash your work area with water to remove any remaining stripper or coating.
For more difficult coatings, chemical strippers like Citristrip can be a great solution. Regardless of what method you choose, make sure to wear protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid harmful fumes.
Painting
Cabinet refacing and refinishing are both effective ways to revitalize your kitchen without spending thousands of dollars on a complete replacement. While refacing replaces your existing doors and drawer fronts, refinishing keeps the structure of your cabinets but changes their appearance by sanding or chemically stripping the old finish and applying new coats of paint. While both methods can yield beautiful results, you may find that your preferences and budget dictate which is right for you.
When considering a cabinet refinishing project, it’s important to understand that this is a short-term solution. Even the highest-quality painted jobs will begin to show signs of wear after only a few years in a busy kitchen. This is due to the fact that paint is not designed to withstand repeated contact with moisture and grease, which are common in the kitchen. If you want your refinishing job to last longer, you’ll need to revisit this process every 5-7 years.
Before beginning the painting phase of cabinet refinishing, your professional will use a brush or a sprayer to apply at least two coats of a high-quality wood stain. This will help your cabinets maintain their beauty and prevent the buildup of mold or mildew, which can be a major headache down the road.
Once the stain is dry, your professional will sand down the bare wood to create a smooth surface for your final coating of paint. This step is essential to creating a flawless and durable finish. During the sanding process, your professional will also address any imperfections such as scratches or chips and fill them in with wood putty.
NHance’s professionals have extensive experience with cabinet refinishing, and we can provide you with a quality service that will yield long-lasting results. Our experts are familiar with all aspects of this process, from sanding down the existing surfaces to applying new coats of paint. If you’re interested in transforming the look of your kitchen, we encourage you to request a quote from us today!
Unlike cabinet refacing, refinishing is an affordable option that can be completed in a much shorter amount of time. It’s also a good option for homeowners who don’t have the time or energy to invest in a more extensive remodel. To start your search for a cabinet refinishing company, ask around or read testimonials to find one with experience and expertise that will ensure your finished product is as flawless as possible.
Finishing
Cabinet refinishing is a cost-friendly way to update the look of your kitchen, without the hefty price tag of replacement. In fact, refinishing is one of the most popular renovation options available. Refacing and refinishing differ in that refacing involves replacing the cabinets’ fronts, including the doors, while refinishing maintains the existing cabinet box frames and simply alters their appearance.
Both methods offer a variety of style and color options, allowing homeowners to achieve their desired kitchen upgrade without spending a fortune. Both methods are also more environmentally friendly than a complete cabinet replacement, as old materials are reused rather than thrown away.
Proper cabinet refinishing requires careful preparation to ensure a flawless transformation that lasts. This includes thoroughly cleaning the cabinets, removing hardware and sanding all surfaces to prepare them for the new finish. After the cabinets are completely dry, you can begin to apply the chosen varnish, wax or paint. The finish should be applied evenly in a well-ventilated area, giving the surface time to fully cure between coats.
Once the final coat of paint is applied, it’s important to keep an eye out for any areas that may have been overlooked or have blemishes, chips, or scratches. Regular inspections and touch-ups can help prevent these small issues from becoming larger problems down the road.
Choosing a Professional Cabinet Refinishing Service
While cabinet refinishing is a doable project for some homeowners, it’s often best left to professionals. A skilled, experienced technician can ensure a flawless finish, minimizing the chance of error and saving you valuable time. In addition, a professional will know how to properly prep the cabinet surface and address any areas that might need additional attention, such as chipped or water-damaged wood.
Whether your cabinets need a simple color change or a full transformation, refinishing is an affordable and effective option for any kitchen remodel. To learn more about this popular kitchen renovation option, contact your local home improvement experts today. They can walk you through the process and help you choose the perfect color and finish to suit your unique style.