How to Prevent Paint Failures on Cabinets

Painting your cabinets is a great way to freshen up the room. Over time, cabinets begin to show scuffs, smudges, and wear. A fresh coat of paint can go a long way toward making the room fresh and new again. Make sure to avoid these common mistakes when you paint the cabinets.

Take Down the Doors

It may seem difficult to take the doors down, but it really will save time when you paint the cabinets. You will be able to paint without worrying about the hinges or difficult spots between the door and cabinet. Make sure that you label the doors and the hinges so they are easy to put back when you finish. 

Sand the Cabinets

It is really important to sand the cabinets thoroughly before you begin. If you don’t, the paint will not stick evenly, and in some cases, it may not stick at all. The best way to handle this is to sand the entire cabinet. This is a fairly simple process if you have removed the doors.

Use Prime

Primer is important beyond making a light surface to paint on. It makes the surface smooth and even for the final coats of paint. In addition, it acts as a cover layer for paint. The paint will stick to it, and it will help to prevent it from cracking. Another trick is to add a few drops of the paint color to the primer. This will help the color to be evenly spread after you paint.

Use Quality Cabinetry Paint

Your cabinets really stand out in your home, and this is a place where you do not want to try to save a few dollars. Make sure that you buy high-quality paint in a semi-gloss. Semi-gloss finishes are easy to clean on a daily basis, and they will shine in the room. Be sure to use a roller so that the paint is spread evenly, and use a paintbrush for the corners.

Pay Attention to the Paint as it Dries

There is a big difference between painting wood and painting drywall. Drywall is made to take on paint, and paint tends to stick to it well and dry evenly. You have to be careful with wood. The paint can build up in the corner or on the edge. Take a look at the paint as it is drying so that you can address those sections with paint buildup or drips before they dry.

Wait to Paint Another Coat

It is unnecessary to wait until the paint is completely dry, but you should make sure that it is almost completely dry before painting the next coat. You may be painting two or three coats, and the paint could peel or crack if it isn’t mostly dry before you apply the next coat. A good rule is to wait two to three hours between coats. 

Painting your cabinets is a great way to brighten and freshen up the space. Just follow these tips, and your cabinets will turn out great.